Subjects

Veterinary Medicine

What makes the Cambridge Veterinary course so special?

Cambridge is a popular choice for a wide variety of students, providing an intellectually satisfying preparation for clinical studies. The MVST is intended as the pre-clinical study for students reading for Veterinary and Medical degrees. The subjects within the Tripos are treated very much as scientific disciplines; there is no integration with clinical studies, although a few relevant clinical demonstrations may be arranged. That being said, all pre-clinical Vets have extensive periods of farm practice during their first three years, and the very long Cambridge vacations give ample time for this.

Cambridge has long prided itself on the breadth and depth of the scientific training that it can offer to its Veterinary and Medical students. All students now complete all of their pre-clinical exemptions by the end of their second year. The possibility of in-depth study in the third year is available to all students, through Part II of the Natural Sciences Tripos; at the same time, those who would prefer a broader course are catered for by the many options in Part II of either the Medical or the Natural Sciences Tripos.

The option of a single scientific subject within Part II of the Natural Sciences Tripos is a popular choice for many students, as it allows for a year of specialized study, involving a research project or dissertation. It provides a useful foretaste of what research might be like, as well as introducing students to exciting scientific work at the forefront of our knowledge in a particular discipline. For those preferring the broader course Part II Biological and Biomedical Sciences has a wide range of biomedical courses, with many attractive and varied options available. A dissertation often forms an integral part of the Part II MVST examination, enabling students to research a particular topic of interest in depth.

All students successfully completing three years of undergraduate study will graduate with a Cambridge BA Honours degree. In addition, those who have attained at least a Class II mark in each medical subject in the Tripos examinations will have gained exemption from the Cambridge 2nd Veterinary MB. Those who do not reach this standard are required to take 2nd MB papers in the appropriate subject(s).

Why choose Newnham for Veterinary Medicine?

Newnham is a great place to study veterinary medicine. Most teaching within the college is in small groups (supervisions), which allow plenty of opportunity for each student to contribute to the discussion and ask questions.

‘Newnham is a fantastic place, making it a definite first choice I think! The great atmosphere and beauty of the college make it a wonderful place to live and study. Also, the smaller numbers of students studying medicine and veterinary medicine means there is small group teaching with students.’  3rd year Vet student

How many students take Veterinary Medicine at Newnham?

Although the Cambridge Veterinary School is small, the number of students whom we are allowed to admit has increased significantly over the last few years. At Newnham we offer to three or four applicants each year.

It must be said that the competition for places in Veterinary Medicine is very strong. However, most applicants will be interviewed provided that their A-levels meet the 1st MB exemption requirements and they have a strong previous academic record (AS marks or equivalent). Our standard offer is A*AA at A-level, usually in science subjects (or mathematics).

How will I be taught at Newnham?

College-based teaching at Newnham is provided both by research scientists and by those who are qualified veterinary surgeons.

Can you tell me more about the Veterinary Medicine Fellows?

• Professor Jenny Morton is Director of Pre-clinical Medical & Veterinary studies at Newnham College. She is also a Reader in the Department of Pharmacology and Course Organiser for the University MVST 1B Pharmacology course. She is very active in research into neurodegenerative disorders e.g. Huntington’s disease and leads a team of researchers in the Department of Pharmacology.
• Dr Barbara Skelly is Director of Studies in Clinical Veterinary Medicine. She works as a lecturer and clinician in the Department of Small Animal Medicine, where she is actively involved in teaching students, seeing clinical cases and undertaking research into canine genetic diseases.
• Dr Barbara Blacklaws is a Senior Lecturer in Molecular Virology in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, researching immune response to viral infections. She is also the Director for the Fundamentals of Veterinary Science Summer School.

What jobs do Newnham Veterinary Medicine students go on to do?

Newnham vet students go on to a wide range of jobs when they qualify. After postgraduate training, most will go on into veterinary practice. With the scientific grounding of the Cambridge course, some may choose to study for a PhD and pursue a clinical academic career.

Are there any A-Level subjects that are particularly useful?

Before coming into residence successful applicants are required to have gained exemption from the Cambridge 1st MB examination. Pre-clinical requirements have been introduced to replace the old 1st MB exemption conditions. For details of these requirements you should consult the University of Cambridge Undergraduate Prospectus or click here. It is no longer essential to have A-level passes (or the equivalent) in three science/ mathematical subjects, e.g. Biology, Chemistry and Physics, or Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics. However, given the very broad scientific base of the Cambridge Veterinary course it is expected that most students admitted will continue to offer the three science/mathematical subjects. Please consult the Admissions Office for further advice about the new regulations if you are uncertain.

Can I take a gap year?

We are open-minded about applicants having a gap year. We are equally happy to accept applications from students applying pre-A level and wishing to come straight from school and those who have chosen to have a gap year and are applying post A level (or equivalent).

Applicants wishing to apply pre-A level (or equivalent) for deferred entry will also be considered, but because of the quota system, borderline applicants would be less likely to be successful, as we would usually only defer a place for a particularly strong applicant, or if there are extenuating circumstances.

How should I prepare for interview at Newnham?

You should read widely and be able to demonstrate a real interest and enthusiasm for studying veterinary medicine. It is especially important that you have read the websites and understand what the course entails (see also the information given below about the Cambridge Veterinary course).

You will usually have two interviews, each lasting approximately 20 minutes. During your interview we will ask you questions about what you have done so far, including any work-placements or work-shadowing and we will also ask you to tackle some problem-solving questions. We will talk you through these activities e.g. interpreting a graph, so that we can get a chance to assess how you approach and think about problems and how you respond to guidance and advice. You will have an opportunity to ask questions. You may find it helpful to visit the section on interviews on the main Cambridge University website.

Where can I find out more?

Veterinary Medicine course information on the University website and on the Department website, including a section on frequently asked questions.

Take a look at the profile of a Veterinary Medicine undergraduate.

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