Care for military animals, lead soldiers, and build an extraordinary veterinary career in the Army.
About the Company
The Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) is part of the British Army, responsible for the health, welfare, and training of Military Working Animals (MWAs) such as dogs and horses. The Corps leads on animal husbandry, preventive medicine, and veterinary training, offering a unique blend of clinical practice and military leadership within a global, structured, and rewarding environment.
About the Opportunity
As a Veterinary Officer, you’ll care for Army animals, advise on biosecurity and disease control, and take on challenges beyond civilian practice. You’ll lead personnel, gain advanced veterinary qualifications such as a Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (with potential to pursue an MSc), and serve in varied, often demanding environments. A bursary of up to £60,000 is available for students, and pay rises to £50,540 after training. This role offers travel, adventure training, leadership development, and the chance to make a real impact.
What We're Looking For
- A Veterinary Degree and Membership of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)
- Aged 17 years & 9 months to 36 years & 11 months
- Ability to lead teams and make decisions under pressure
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Commitment to physical fitness (Mid Thigh Pull 50kg, 2.7m Medicine Ball Throw, Beep Test Level 5.8)
- Willingness to serve in challenging environments
- Passion for animal care, leadership, and continuous learning
Pay & benefits
Your salary will increase to £50,540 once you have finished training and joined your unit.
Student bursary (up to £60,000):
- Open to candidates who will graduate with an Army endorsed veterinary degree and intend to join the Royal Army Veterinary Corps as a Vet for at least 4 years
- Paid in annual instalments of £5,000 during your final three years of university then a lump sum of £45,000 on successful completion of Officer training
- You may also be paid an Army salary or a lump sum of £5,000 during each of two years of professional development.
- Apply while you are still at university, before the end of January. You should apply not later than your first year to qualify for the full amount; the Army reserves the right to award bursaries of 1, 2 or 3 years. You must pass the Army Officer Selection Board for professionally qualified officers and the Army Selection Board for Royal Army Veterinary Corps to qualify. You must also start initial Officer training at Sandhurst before your 37th birthday.
