Harper Adams University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Keele University, announcing that they are in exploratory talks to establish a new Veterinary School.

The new Vet School would provide five-year degrees leading to a Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (BVSc) qualification, and training would be delivered on a 50/50 basis on both university campuses, in partnership with local clinical providers and industry.

Accreditation would be sought from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, enabling graduates to register and practice as vets upon the award of their degree.

Vice-chancellor of Harper Adams University, Dr David Llewellyn, said: “Harper Adams has a long and proud history of working with the rural sector, and our teaching and research specialisms in agriculture and animal sciences will complement Keele’s established track-record in the fields of life sciences and medicine. We are excited by the prospect of a joint Veterinary School and look forward to working closely with Keele on this initiative.”

Carwyn Ellis, head of the animal production, welfare and veterinary sciences at Harper Adams, added: “This is an exciting development which will add further to our provision for the veterinary sector.”