Bioveterinary Science BSc (Hons)

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Available with:

  • Foundation Year

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Course Summary

The University of Chester's Bioveterinary Science course takes a holistic approach to animal health. You will gain an appreciation for disease and its impact on animals in terms of physiology and welfare, as well as how we can diagnose and treat disease. You will also be able to explore the wider implications on animal health, such as the impacts on the human population and the environment.

Our Bioveterinary Science degree utilises the strengths of the University of Chester in the areas of biology, behaviour and welfare. These strengths offer an opportunity to study animal health and welfare not only at the physiological and cellular level but also at the behavioural level. You’ll learn from experienced staff, including qualified veterinarians, who are experts in their fields and will share their current research work to improve animal health and welfare.

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), our BSc Bioveterinary Science degree has been independently assessed to ensure that it provides graduates with a deep understanding of their subject, and that it will suitably prepare graduates for employment in the biosciences. To achieve RSB accreditation, courses must meet rigorous criteria that ensure students are trained in, and have practical experience of subject-specific technical skills and broader transferable skills.

Overall, studying Bioveterinary Science encompasses a comprehensive range of scientific disciplines, which support the care of animals and understanding of animal disease. We also place an emphasis on technical laboratory skills to provide you with the skills required to work in laboratories that support the veterinary profession. We aim to consider both the individual animal and groups of animals, and to produce graduates who can have an impact on animal welfare.

If you have any queries about the BSc Bioveterinary Science course after viewing this course page, please email the Programme Leader, Dr Nicola Beesley, via nbeesley@chester.ac.uk. 

An aerial shot of University of Chester with text overlaid

Bioveterinary Science BSc

Why You'll Love It

Practical lab experience

You will gain the necessary technical laboratory skills you need throughout your degree and beyond as you learn at Chester. The practical lab experience we provide as part of this course will equip you with the foundational skills required to work in laboratories that support the veterinary profession.

student and teacher in bio lab in uniform

Experiential learning

We recognise the importance of seeing how what you learn on the course can be applied to real-life settings, so we aim to ensure you have experiential leaning opportunities. In the past we have visited professional spaces that will introduce you to the variety of career opportunities available to you after graduation. Previous students have also undertaken placements at veterinary practices, wildlife hospitals, laboratories, zoo, wildlife parks and more.

biovet student at work placement with llamas

Taught by experts

Our teaching staff are experts in their field and are here to teach you in-depth scientific knowledge as part of a holistic approach to animal health. You will be supported as you learn the ways in which we can diagnose and treat disease. You will also develop an appreciation for disease and its impact on animals in terms of physiology, behaviour and welfare.

biovet student with dog

What Our Students Think

1st for learning and teaching quality in the North West WUSCAS 2024
3rd in the UK for course quality 2024 unicompare

What You'll Study

The Physical and Natural Sciences Foundation Year route is an ideal place to begin your journey in academic sciences.

The Foundation Year is designed to give you a strong knowledge and skills base aligned with your chosen four-year degree. Following a solid grounding in scientific principles or behavioural sciences in your first block of teaching, you will study bespoke modules aligned with your discipline. This could involve studying the human body in health and disease and how to encourage healthy and sustainable behaviours, or the biology of terrestrial and marine animals and the impacts of their interactions with humans, or you might focus on the physical sciences and how they can help change the world for the better. Whatever you aspire to, we can offer you a supportive and incremental introduction to your science degree.

There are currently no optional modules on the course.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If, during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

In Year 1 (Level 4), you will build a strong foundation in animal health, starting with an understanding of what is normal in healthy animals. This knowledge is essential for identifying and addressing disruptions to health caused by disease in the later years of the course. You will study key topics such as cell structure, biochemistry, genetics, anatomy, physiology, metabolism and immunology to understand how the body functions. You will also explore animal husbandry, normal animal behaviour, and consider how animals can be managed to enhance welfare. You will gain essential laboratory skills such as microscopy, microbiology and molecular biology, and will receive training in conducting scientific research and scientific communication. You will also start to consider how to develop and test scientific hypotheses, design experiments, and analyse data. Together, these elements represent the first step in your journey towards becoming a Bioveterinary Scientist.

MODULES

  • Science of Life (40 Credits) Core
  • Exploring and Researching Life Sciences (40 Credits) Core
  • Animal Husbandry and Welfare (20 Credits) Core
  • Project-Based Learning in Biosciences (20 Credits) Option
  • Language Module (20 Credits) Option

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

As you progress into Year 2 (Level 5), you will build on the foundational knowledge you acquired in Year 1 and explore abnormalities in animal health; in addition, we will encourage you to adopt a more critical approach. You will consider infectious and non-infectious causes of disease and their impacts at every biological level – from cells and tissues to the whole body. You will examine the diversity of microorganisms, considering both their benefits to society and their potential adverse effects. You will also gain hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and processes available for assessing health and diagnosing disease in animals, including cellular and physiological analyses. Additionally, your understanding of the relationship between animal behaviour and welfare will deepen, including the application of welfare assessments and the impact of human-animal interactions.

Year 2 also includes an optional module offering experiential learning opportunities that are designed to enhance your practical skills and provide real-world experiences. This year will equip you with advanced knowledge, critical thinking skills, and valuable employability prospects.

MODULES

  • Biology of Disease (20 Credits) Core
  • Bioveterinary Diagnostics (20 Credits) Core
  • Microbiology (20 Credits) Core
  • Behaviour and Welfare (20 Credits) Core
  • Experiential Learning / Professional Placement / Language Module / Term Abroad (40 Credits) Option

  • Optional Placement Year (120 Credits) Option 

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

In Year 3 (Level 6), subject-specific modules will help you to integrate and apply your knowledge, further advancing your expertise in Bioveterinary Science and preparing you for your future career. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of investigating disease in individual animals and animal populations, as well as the complex interplay between animal health, human health and the environment. You will consider how diseases are managed and controlled, including the major therapeutic interventions used in animal health. This will include studying the principles of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to understand drug actions and their applications in animals. Additionally, you will also consider how your cumulative knowledge can be used to improve animal welfare in a veterinary context.

A key component of your final year is your dissertation project, which will allow you to focus on your individual research interests. This project will build on your prior training in the scientific process, data analysis and scientific communication, whilst considering the ethics and safety of research. This integrative approach will prepare you for roles working to support animal health and the veterinary profession when you graduate.

MODULES

  • Veterinary Disease, Epidemiology and One Health (20 Credits) Core
  • Veterinary Pharmacology (20 Credits) Core
  • Animal Welfare Considerations in Clinical Practice (20 Credits) Core
  • Natural Sciences Dissertation (40 Credits) Core

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

How you'll Learn

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This course is designed around in-person study

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You will be assessed in a variety of ways

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There may be some online learning activities

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Curriculum developed to match workforce priorities

This course is delivered in three terms of ten weeks each. In each term, you study 40 credits usually comprised of either one or two modules. At Level 6, the dissertation module will be delivered alongside other modules. 

Average scheduled contact hours range between approximately six and ten hours per week, depending upon the module, level of study, number of practical sessions and the complexity of the material being taught. The course is delivered through a mix of in-person and online learning. You can expect to take part in lectures and seminars.

Alongside this, you will develop relevant skills (e.g. laboratory techniques, digital literacy) through practical sessions and experiential learning. 

Independent learning is an important part of this course. You should expect to spend an average of 30-34 hours per week on independent study, which might include following asynchronous learning material on the University’s VLE, using the University’s library, working with peers and preparing work for assessment. 

Teaching will be delivered by experienced academics and practitioners in the subject. This will be supplemented by occasional guest lecturers and speakers if required. 

There will be a broad range of assessment methods so you are exposed to the different types of task you might encounter in the workplace. These will include coursework in the form of written pieces, laboratory reports, data processing and presentations. In some modules, you may encounter group work and practical assessments, as well as end-of-module assessments. We continuously review the assessment methods used to ensure they adequately prepare students for graduate level employment. 

All teaching is delivered by experienced academics and practitioners, with the fundamental principles of the Chester Future Skills Curriculum at its core - building your subject competence, confidence and key transferable skills to shape you into a world ready Chester graduate.

Entry Requirements

112UCAS Points

UCAS Tariff

112 points

GCE A Level

Typical offer – BCC-BBC, including a grade C in one of the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry or Applied Science

BTEC

BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science/Animal Management): DMM

International Baccalaureate

26 points, including 5 in Biology or Chemistry

Irish / Scottish Highers

Irish Highers: H3 H3 H3 H3 H4, including H3 in Biology or Chemistry

Scottish Highers: BBBB, including Biology or Chemistry

Access requirements

Access to HE Diploma (Science), to include 45 credits at level 3, of which 30 must be at Merit or above

T Level

T Level Science – Merit

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma (Applied Science): DMM

Extra Information

Welsh Baccalaureate (core) and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer. We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs.

Students from countries outside the UK are expected to have entry qualifications roughly equivalent to UK A Level for undergraduate study and British Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) for postgraduate study. To help you to interpret these equivalents, please click on your country of residence to see the corresponding entry qualifications, along with information about your local representatives, events, information and contacts.

We accept a wide range of qualifications and consider all applications individually on merit. We may also consider appropriate work experience.

English Language Requirements

  • IELTS Academic: Undergraduate: 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in each band)
  • Postgraduate: 6.5 (minimum 5.5 in each band)

For more information on our entry requirements, please visit International Entry Requirements.

72UCAS Points

UCAS 

72 points

GCE A Level 

72 points from GCE A Levels, including grade D in A Level Biology, Chemistry or Applied Science

BTEC 

BTEC Extended Diploma (Applied Science/Animal Management): MMP

International Baccalaureate

24 points, including 4 in HL Biology or Chemistry 

Irish / Scottish Highers 

Irish Highers: H4 H4 H4 H4 H4, including Biology or Chemistry

Scottish Highers: CCDD, including Biology or Chemistry 

Access requirements 

Access to HE Diploma (Science): Pass overall

T Level  

T Level Science – Pass (D or E on the core)

OCR Cambridge Technicals

OCR Extended Diploma (Applied Science): MMP

Extra Information / General Entry Requirements 

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced and A Level General Studies will be recognised in our offer.  We will also consider a combination of A Levels and BTECs/OCRs. 

If you are a mature student (21 or over) and have been out of education for a while or do not have experience or qualifications at Level 3 (equivalent to A Levels), then our Foundation Year courses will help you to develop the skills and knowledge you will need to succeed in your chosen degree.

Fees and Funding

£9,535per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

Our full-time undergraduate tuition fees for Home students entering University in 2025/26 are £9,535 a year, or £1,590 per 20-credit module for part-time study.

You can find more information about undergraduate fees on our Fees and Finance pages.

Students from the UK, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey and the Republic of Ireland are treated as Home students for tuition fee purposes.

Students from countries in the European Economic Area and the EU will pay International Tuition Fees.

Students who have been granted Settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans.

Students who have been granted Pre-settled Status may be eligible for Home Fee Status and if eligible will be able to apply for Tuition Fee Loans.

£14,450*per year for a full-time course (2025/26)

The tuition fees for international students studying Undergraduate programmes in 2025/26 are £14,450 per year for a full-time course. This fee is set for each year of study.

The University of Chester offers generous international and merit-based scholarships, providing a significant reduction to the published headline tuition fee. You will automatically be considered for these scholarships when your application is reviewed, and any award given will be stated on your offer letter.

For courses with a Foundation Year, the tuition fees for Year 1 are £10,750 and £14,200 for Years 2-4 in 2025/26.

For more information, go to our International Fees, Scholarship and Finance section.

Irish Nationals living in the UK or ROI are treated as Home students for Tuition Fee Purposes. 

All successful applicants for this course should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Tetanus. This is essential under Health and Safety Regulations for those who come into contact with blood and/or blood products. Whilst students may still enrol on this course, if they choose not to be vaccinated their learning experiences and choice of work placement may be limited.

Compulsory field trips are covered by tuition fees. However, the course will involve additional costs not covered by tuition fees. Students are currently required to purchase a lab induction pack with a lab coat and other required equipment. The current price is £30.00, but this may be subject to price increases depending on purchase costs. Students are also required to have waterproof clothing and boots. The quality and cost of these are at the students’ discretion, but must be suitable for fieldwork/trips in the UK in the winter months. Costs for walking boots start at around £40.

Other additional costs may include the purchase of books, printing, photocopying, educational stationery and travel to placements.

Students who are living away from home during their time at university will need to cover costs such as accommodation, food, travel and bills. 

Who you'll Learn from

Dr Nicola Beesley

Senior Lecturer in Bioveterinary Sciences, Programme Leader BSc Bioveterinary Science
Dr Nicola Beesley

Dr Kelly Gouveia

Lecturer in Bioveterinary Sciences, Programme leader BSc Animal Welfare
Dr Kelly Gouveia

Dr Krista McLennan

Head of the School
Dr Krista McLennan

Dr Emmeline Howarth

Programme Leader for Animal Behaviour
Dr Emmeline Howarth

Dr Robert Coleman

Senior Lecturer in Biological Sciences, Programme Leader BSc Biology
Dr Robert Coleman

Dr Jonathan Kyffin

Lecturer in Biology
Dr Jonathan Kyffin

Where you'll study Exton Park, Chester

The location

Exton Park is close to the city centre of Chester, a city like no other and an amazing place to live as a student. While it is undoubtedly beautiful and packed with history, Chester is also a bustling 21st-century city balancing big-name shopping, eating and living with a thriving independent scene.

Modern learning resources and library

We have dedicated resources and IT services across campus, as well as our Seaborne Library; home to an extensive selection of books, e-books and e-journals, as well as bookable multimedia rooms, video conferencing space, 24-hour access computer labs, and The Hub; a comfortable two-floor study zone, suitable for independent and group study.

Seaborne library, seating and reception area.

Student Services

Exton Park is home to a number of our central support services, including Disability and Inclusion, Careers and Employability, and Student Support.

Fitness facilities

Exton Park boasts an impressive choice of indoor and outdoor sports and leisure facilities, which are used for both competitive and recreational sports. Our facilities include a swimming pool, gym, squash, and tennis courts, running track and two floodlit pitches.

A male student wearing goggles is swimming in the training pool between the red rope lane marker lines.

Chapel, chaplaincy and multi-faith spaces

Built in 1847 by former students, the University Chapel offers regular services and a venue to services. The University of Chester also has multi-faith spaces across the campus for prayer or quiet reflection.

Accommodation

Most of our student accommodation is located either on or near Exton Park.

Catering

We have several catering outlets available onsite, offering a wide selection of hot and cold food to students and visitors. Term-time Meal Schemes are also available for those students interested in non-residential catering schemes.

Your Future Career

Job Prospects

Our graduates have pursued further education including Masters and PhDs as well as training to be veterinary nurses or veterinary surgeons. Additionally, some graduates have secured positions with the RSPCA, in education, diagnostic laboratories and animal export industries.

Jobs we expect graduates to go into include:

  • Veterinary diagnostic laboratories
  • Animal reproduction laboratories
  • Animal welfare/agricultural assessment, e.g., charity advocacy
  • Research and development – veterinary, pharmaceuticals, agriculture
  • Civil service or other public sector, e.g., APHA
  • Food industry with food safety
  • Animal nutrition
  • Education
  • Journalist/science communications
  • Sales and marketing related to nutrition
  • Sales and marketing related to healthcare and diagnostics
  • Postgraduate specialism – e.g., veterinary science/medicine to become a veterinary surgeon, veterinary nursing, veterinary physiotherapy

Careers Service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course, and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.

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