Veterinary Biosciences BSc/MSci

The BSc/MSci in Veterinary Biosciences at the University of Glasgow gives students hands-on experience in cutting-edge laboratories, research facilities, and animal health environments. From day one, students combine classroom theory with practical investigation, learning how to handle specimens, use advanced laboratory instruments, and apply research methods that mirror those used in professional veterinary and biomedical science.

Practical sessions are embedded throughout the program, helping students build real-world skills in diagnostics, molecular biology, and animal health monitoring. They also participate in research projects, group investigations, and fieldwork, gaining experience with live data, scientific software, and laboratory reporting tools. Here’s how this practical learning is delivered across the course:

• Advanced Laboratory Training: Students gain extensive lab experience using modern equipment in molecular biology, genetics, pathology, and physiology.

• School of Veterinary Medicine Facilities: Learning takes place in purpose-built teaching spaces shared with veterinary students, allowing exposure to a professional research environment.

• Research Institutes: Access to world-class research centres like the Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, where students can participate in ongoing studies and projects.

• Animal and Veterinary Fieldwork: Opportunities to engage in field trips and animal welfare studies, applying bioscience knowledge in real environmental and agricultural contexts.

• Research Projects: Final-year students conduct individual or group research projects under expert supervision, often contributing to active scientific publications.

• Digital Tools and Software: Training in scientific data analysis tools, research databases, and digital microscopy systems to enhance technical and analytical skills.

• Collaborative Learning: Group work and project-based assignments help students build teamwork and communication skills essential in scientific and clinical research settings.

• James Herriot Library: Dedicated veterinary and bioscience library offering extensive digital resources, journals, and research support.

Through this combination of laboratory training, research exposure, and collaborative study, students graduate as confident scientists ready to contribute to advances in veterinary and biomedical research.

Graduates from the BSc/MSci Veterinary Biosciences program at the University of Glasgow are highly sought after for their scientific expertise, analytical thinking, and hands-on research experience. This degree opens doors to diverse career paths across the veterinary, biomedical, and life sciences sectors, preparing students for roles in research, diagnostics, animal health, and biotechnology. Typical career roles include biomedical scientist, veterinary laboratory technician, research associate, and animal health consultant.

Students benefit from Glasgow’s strong focus on employability and career development through:

• Dedicated career support from the University’s Careers Service, offering tailored advice, internships, and industry networking opportunities.

• Excellent graduate prospects, with many students securing roles in research institutions, government agencies, and leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies.

• Industry collaborations with organisations such as the Moredun Research Institute and the Roslin Institute, providing real-world learning and research exposure.

• Accredited degree value, ensuring recognition across veterinary and biosciences fields globally.

• High employment outcomes, with graduates progressing quickly into professional or research-based roles, reflecting the program’s strong reputation in scientific training.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their academic journey through advanced studies such as MSc or PhD programs in areas like Veterinary Medicine, Animal Health, or Biomedical Research. Many also progress into postgraduate veterinary degrees or research fellowships, building specialised expertise and contributing to scientific innovation in animal and human health.