Veterinary Biosciences with Foundation Year
Veterinary biosciences is the scientific foundation that underpins the study of animal health, disease, and medicine. It draws on cell biology, physiology, biochemistry, immunology, pharmacology, and pathology to understand how animal bodies function and what happens when they go wrong, providing the biological knowledge base that veterinary and animal science professionals need to work effectively. The field is closely related to biomedical science but focuses specifically on animals across a wide range of species, from companion animals and livestock to wildlife and zoo animals.
At the University of Surrey, this four-year, full-time degree includes a foundation year for students who need to build their scientific background before entering the main programme. Surrey's approach to education integrates preparation for the technological landscape of the workplace, and the foundation year is designed to provide a solid platform for degree-level study. Through the main degree, you will study the core biological sciences relevant to animal health, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology, developing both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.
The programme is designed to support progression either into further professional study in veterinary medicine or veterinary nursing, or directly into roles in animal health science and related industries. The typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects the foundation year entry requirements.
Veterinary biosciences graduates work in pharmaceutical and animal health companies, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, research institutions, regulatory agencies, and government bodies concerned with animal health and biosecurity. Many use the degree as a stepping stone to postgraduate professional training in veterinary medicine, veterinary nursing, or clinical laboratory science. Others move into roles in wildlife conservation, environmental health, food safety, or biomedical research where a strong understanding of animal biology is directly relevant.
The degree provides a scientifically rigorous foundation for a wide range of careers in the animal health sector and beyond.