RVC becomes internationally accredited
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) has become one of a select few schools in the world to have been recognised as an fully-accredited institution by US, EU/UK and Australasian authorities.
Since the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has re-awarded its accreditation for the next seven years, the RVC can remain unique in its standing as the only UK vet school to hold accreditation from all four corners of the world.
As well as AVMA, the RVC holds accreditation from the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the Australian Veterinary Boards Council (AVBC).
Furthermore, it is the first UK vet school to have been accredited three times by the AVMA.
The college had to undergo a thorough assessment in order to gain its US accreditation. This involves assurance that the establishment is working to 11 set standards, as laid down by AVMA's Council on Education.
These standards largely focus on the educational and clinical experience provided to the students; from facilities and curriculum, to finances and staffing.
While receiving commendation on all 11 standards, the inspecting visitors also commented on a further 25 areas of excellence at the college. These included the student experience and support, as well as the commitment from both staff and students.
RVC Principal, Professor Stuart Reid, said: "I am absolutely delighted at the result of our accreditation visit and I pay tribute to all those involved in securing this recognition. As a consequence, RVC graduates are able to work worldwide knowing that the RVC has signed up to, and met, internationally recognised standards.
"It also guarantees that our students experience the highest quality available and it emphasises our commitment as a global force in academic and clinical leadership."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
