Veterinary medicine placements

The answer is both yes, and no - depending on which placement type you are asking about.

Intra-mural rotations (IMR)

The University will organise your IMR placements. Travel and/or accommodation will be covered, so you do not need to pay for this during your IMR placements.

We've built a network of local placement providers in and around the North West of England, however if you know of a practice in your local area that you'd like to work with, please let us know. We are always open to expanding our practice network. 

Extra-mural studies (EMS)

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) requires EMS placements, they are not optional. The University doesn't usually provide financial support for travel and accommodation for these placements. However we do have a number of bursaries for students meeting certain criteria, which you can apply for to help you with the extra costs associated with EMS.

Students who began their degree after August 2024 must complete 30 weeks of EMS, including:

• 10 weeks of animal husbandry EMS (AHEMS).
• 20 weeks of clinical EMS.

There are no species requirements.

Students who began their degree before August 2024 must complete 38 weeks of EMS, including:

• 12 weeks of animal husbandry EMS (AHEMS).
• 26 weeks of clinical EMS.

At least one week of AHEMS must take place in each of the three main disciplines:

• Equine
• Production animal
• Small animal

EMS can be completed in your breaks from University, like the Christmas, Easter or Summer Holidays.

Your Extra-mural Studies (EMS) placements are an important part of your veterinary training, and we want to make sure you get the best experience possible. Please take note of the following guidance when planning your placements:

• UK (Domestic) students will complete all EMS placements within the UK. 

• International students (as registered with the University) can complete EMS either in their country of residence or in the UK.

• Students based in Northern Ireland may complete placements in the Republic of Ireland under certain circumstances.

Intra-mural rotation (IMR) placements are part of the veterinary degree curriculum at the University of Lancashire. They will be arranged for you by the School of Veterinary Medicine team.

EMS placements, unlike IMR placements, do not involve any formal training or teaching. They are also completed outside of your University study time, often during the holidays.

EMS placements build on the knowledge and skills you develop through your IMR placements and sessions during term time. They provide valuable experience of real-world situations which might not be covered in the university curriculum.