The University of Cambridge’s veterinary medicine program, ranked among the top in the UK, faces a potential loss of its professional accreditation after a damning investigation by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). The probe uncovered significant ethical concerns, inadequate handling of student complaints, and alarming reports of racism and discrimination.

Failing to Meet Standards

The RCVS review revealed that the program failed to meet 50 out of 77 essential standards required for accreditation. As a result, Cambridge’s prestigious veterinary degree has been granted only temporary accreditation, pending a follow-up review in September 2025. Without substantial improvement, the course could lose its accreditation, barring the enrollment of new students and forcing graduates to seek additional qualifications to practice in the UK.

Ethical Concerns: Euthanasia Practices Questioned

One of the most troubling findings involves ethical concerns over the euthanasia of farm animals. Multiple sources reported that farm animals showing symptoms necessitating isolation were “automatically” euthanized, raising alarms about the department's adherence to ethical veterinary practices. Investigators also flagged inadequate isolation facilities for large animals.

Student Complaints Ignored

Students voiced frustration over systemic neglect of complaints, with reports of racism and discrimination being brushed aside. The RCVS highlighted that many students were subjected to behaviors that undermined their resilience and confidence. Alarmingly, discrimination experienced during mandatory extramural studies (EMS) placements often went unaddressed. Some faculty reportedly dismissed these incidents, claiming it was "not their job" to follow up on such concerns.

Additionally, placements flagged for discriminatory environments were not removed from the EMS database. Instead, a “red flag” warning was added, leaving students vulnerable to potential bias and harm.

Leadership, Safety, and Diversity Issues

The inspection also revealed broader structural issues, including:

• Bald tires on departmental vehicles, posing safety risks.

• Improper biohazard storage, breaching safety protocols.

• Lack of stable leadership and quality training for educators.

• Disparities in academic progression and attainment for students from ethnic minority and disadvantaged backgrounds, with insufficient targeted support to address these gaps.

Students reported being discouraged from formally pursuing complaints and were allegedly warned about filing “too many complaints.”

University Responds to Crisis

Professor Mark Holmes, head of the department of veterinary medicine, described the findings as “deeply concerning.” He acknowledged the potential accreditation loss would have severe consequences, including forcing graduates to complete additional statutory exams to work as UK veterinary surgeons.

In response, Cambridge University announced it would immediately enlist external experts to guide the department through critical reforms. Holmes assured students that the department is committed to implementing the recommendations outlined by the RCVS to safeguard their professional futures.

Temporary Accreditation Granted

While the RCVS noted strong research-led and clinical teaching at Cambridge, the unusually high number of concerns necessitated temporary accreditation. The university must show significant progress by September 2025 to maintain its status.

“While we recognize the RCVS report will cause concern, it is important to be clear that we remain accredited. We will do everything we reasonably can to support students to complete their course and receive full accreditation,” said Holmes.

What’s Next for Cambridge’s Veterinary Program?

The future of Cambridge’s veterinary course now hinges on its ability to address these wide-ranging issues swiftly. The RCVS will re-evaluate the program in 2025, determining whether it meets the necessary standards to retain full accreditation. For now, students and faculty face an uphill battle to rebuild trust and improve both ethical standards and the treatment of students.

This unfolding crisis not only impacts Cambridge’s reputation but also raises broader questions about equity, ethics, and leadership in veterinary education.