Askham Bryan College’s FdSc Veterinary Nursing Degree Awarded Full RCVS Accreditation

Askham Bryan College is delighted to announce that its Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Veterinary Nursing has been awarded full accreditation by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), marking a significant milestone for both University Centre Askham Bryan and its Veterinary Nursing Department which delivers training in York and Gateshead.

The accreditation recognises the high quality of education, training, clinical learning opportunities and student support provided by the programme. It confirms that the degree meets the rigorous standards required by the veterinary profession and prepares students with the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours needed to practise safely and effectively as veterinary nurses.

For students and graduates, full RCVS accreditation provides an important route into the profession. Successful graduates of the programme are eligible to apply to enter the RCVS Register of Veterinary Nurses, enabling them to practise as Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) and pursue rewarding careers across the veterinary sector.

The achievement follows a comprehensive accreditation process and reflects the dedication of academic staff, clinical coaches, placement providers and students who have contributed to the programme’s continued success.

Claire Pullan, Head of Veterinary Nursing at Askham Bryan College, said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for our Veterinary Nursing team and a proud moment for University Centre Askham Bryan. Achieving full RCVS accreditation is recognition of the excellence, commitment and professionalism demonstrated by our staff, students and industry partners. It provides confidence to prospective students and employers that our graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive in veterinary practice. We are incredibly proud of what has been accomplished and excited about the future of Veterinary Nursing at the University Centre.”

Yvette Foulds-Davis, Assistant Principal HE and Academic Registrar at University Centre Askham Bryan, added:

“Receiving full accreditation from the RCVS is a significant endorsement of the quality of our higher education provision and the strength of our Veterinary Nursing programme. It reflects

the University Centre’s commitment to delivering an outstanding student experience and maintaining the highest academic and professional standards. This achievement reinforces the value of the qualification for our graduates and further enhances the reputation of University Centre Askham Bryan as a leading provider of specialist land-based and animal sciences education.”

The accreditation strengthens University Centre Askham Bryan’s position as a leading provider of veterinary nursing education and highlights its ongoing commitment to developing highly skilled professionals who will make a positive contribution to animal health and welfare.

Students can apply to study the FdSc Veterinary Nursing course at either the York or Gateshead sites, limited places for 2026 entry are still available through Clearing.