BSc Veterinary Nursing and Companion Animal Behaviour at University of Bristol

Programme overview

Ranked 1st in the UK for 'animal science and agriculture' ( Guardian subject rankings 2026), this course is for those who are passionate about providing team-based healthcare, working in clinical settings, and promoting the physical and mental well-being of animals. Bristol's BSc Veterinary Nursing and Companion Animal Behaviour course offers students the opportunity to combine practical nursing skills with in-depth knowledge of animal behaviour. By combining hands-on clinical practice with focused studies in comparative anatomy and physiology, animal behaviour and behaviour management, you'll develop the expertise needed to excel as a veterinary nurse and to support evidence-based nursing practice.

What you will study

Year one You will learn the fundamentals of comparative anatomy and physiology, and the underlying principles and practice of veterinary nursing. You will also have an introduction to professional practice, which will help you to explore the professional behaviours and attributes required within the veterinary profession. This year will help you develop the skills needed to study at degree level.

Career pathways

You'll graduate with a degree from a prestigious Russell Group university and be equipped for a wide range of career opportunities within animal behaviour and veterinary nursing. 100% of our veterinary nursing students say they are using what they learnt during their studies in their current work within 15 months of graduation (DiscoverUni 2022/23).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-level standard offer: BBC including B in Biology. BTEC: DMM in Applied Science. IB Diploma: 29 points overall with 14 at Higher Level, including 5 in Higher Level Biology. Scottish Highers/Advanced Highers: Advanced Higher: BB including Biology and Higher: BBBBC. GCSE: Standard numeracy requirement (4 or C in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent) and Standard literacy requirement (4 or C in GCSE English or equivalent). English language: IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.5 in all skills (or equivalent). Apply through UCAS (course code D313).

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). First-year tuition fee for 2027 entry; subject to annual review. Source

International applicants: GBP 32,500 a year (2027/28). First-year tuition fee for 2027 entry; subject to annual review. Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 4 years full-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/apply/

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