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Higher education

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Original poster

I'm interested in becoming a vet and have a few queries if anyone can help?

10 replies

supercherry · 10/08/2008 19:45

I've only recently started looking into this as a career and it seems I would need 2 science A-Levels and then the Veterinary Science degree. Firstly, would Sociology be classed as a science? Can I do a fast track course to university instead of the A-Levels? Is there anywhere that does Open University in Veterinary Science (v.doubtful I know) because the 6 universities in the UK that do the course are nowhere near me! I have 3 A Levels already and a Law Degree that I don't use a such. I would LOVE to be a vet and I just have this real desire to go for it. Any help would be gratefully recieved.

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SugaryBits · 10/08/2008 19:56

I intended to do veterinary science when I left school, was a while ago and I didn't do it in the end but from what I remember....
Places at uni at very limited and there is extreme competition. At the time I was looking you needed either biology, chemistry & physics or 2 of the sciences and maths A Levels- ideally all A grade. I think they are also very keen on applicants having relevant work experience.

Hopefully someone more knowledgeable will be along to correct me if this is no longer how it works!

Lilymaid · 10/08/2008 19:57

Probably the most difficult subject to apply for - even more competititve than medicine. You would be competing against very highly qualified candidates - minimum 3 very high As at A Level in Physics/Chemistry/Biology - but many would have other A Levels on top of that. Also need a proven interest in becoming a vet - work experience etc.
Sociology won't count (unless it is a fourth or fifth subject) as you need a good grounding in science before you start the course.

Original poster
supercherry · 10/08/2008 20:05

Thanks for the input both- I've been looking at doing a Biology A-Level to begin with and seeing how I get on with that. Would have to do it at Open University due to being a SAHM at the moment (LO 6mths old). I'm 27 though- I feel like I have to hurry up and get on with it. Don't they sometimes make. I'm really hoping the Maths A-Level isn't essential. I was good at Science at School but Maths was easily my worst subject

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Original poster
supercherry · 10/08/2008 20:05

Thanks for the input both- I've been looking at doing a Biology A-Level to begin with and seeing how I get on with that. Would have to do it at Open University due to being a SAHM at the moment (LO 6mths old). I'm 27 though- I feel like I have to hurry up and get on with it. Don't they sometimes make. I'm really hoping the Maths A-Level isn't essential. I was good at Science at School but Maths was easily my worst subject

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Original poster
supercherry · 10/08/2008 20:06

Thanks for the input both- I've been looking at doing a Biology A-Level to begin with and seeing how I get on with that. Would have to do it at Open University due to being a SAHM at the moment (LO 6mths old). I'm 27 though- I feel like I have to hurry up and get on with it. I'm really hoping the Maths A-Level isn't essential. I was good at Science at School but Maths was easily my worst subject

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Original poster
supercherry · 10/08/2008 20:06

Ooop- not sure what happened there!

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ScottishMummy · 10/08/2008 20:08

try get some hands on animal experience, voluntary animal exp see if it is for you

contact a vet ask to shadow them and have a chat about what job involves

the science aspect is huge (animal physiology and anatomy) disease and pathology etc. actual physical handling of animals

you would need to live near one of the Uni's as they have a practical and academic component

law to vet science is a huge digression! why?did you always fancy vet science but get diverted

Slubberdegullion · 10/08/2008 20:09

You'll need A level chemistry. I'd phone the admissions departments (or look on their websites) to find out the requirements. As Lilymaid says it is very competitive, but as a mature student with previous 'life experience' so long as you have the right grades and plenty of work experince there is no reason why you shouln't apply or get accepted.

ScottishMummy · 10/08/2008 20:15

volunteering for city farm you need to demonstrate exp of animals handling and sound understanding of working with livestock

you need to differentiate yourself from the other capable applicants

arrange some voluntary exp

Original poster
supercherry · 10/08/2008 20:26

Scottishmummy, thanks for the tips- I will do just that! I never had a clue what I wanted to do and just really followed the advice of others in doing a law degree, and though I enjoyed parts of the degree it really wasn't for me. I have always lacked direction career wise and then the other day my mum's dog was ill and while at the vets I suddenly thought hey, this could be for me. Bit mad I know! I've always been a bit of an animal lover to be honest but I realise it will take alot more than that. Now, I just need to get the ball rolling, so to speak.

Slubberdegullion- thanks for the advice too.

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