Information on distribution, awards and achievements on veterinary students across the UK

The RCVS have released data on exam results, awards and registration figures for veterinary students across the country.

Among other figures the results show an increase in the number of passes, and an even larger divide in the number of male and female students.

That’s the tip of the iceberg: for full information visit the RCVS site. The information is free to download.

Recent surveys have shown a greater divide in vetmed take up between the sexes

The veterinary profession was dominated by men until fairly recently when the trend completely u-turned. Now men are definitely in the minority, with targets at some colleges and universities designed to boost male placements.

But why? What changed, why did it persist and is it an issue you think matters?

Veterinary Practice News presents some theories, suggesting that one of the reasons might be women are willing to accept lower pay. Do you agree?

Gender Inequality

I had a learning session this week based on gender inequality in the profession in Kenya and Bangladesh and it got me thinking about some of the issues present in the UK.

In Kenya and Bangladesh, female vets often face adversity and the general opinion that they are not competent enough to carry out veterinary services, which has traditionally been a man’s job. Here, we are a developed nation where there are no limits on the things women and men can do, but I have still experienced adverse opinions on my career choice due to the fact I am 5ft2″ tall girl.

In the UK the large majority of vet students are now female, and it’s not just here where the proportion is increasing. In the USA it’s estimated 79% are female compared to less than 5% in the 1960s! So, to be blunt, the people with these opinions had better get used to it.

Read more

When Gail Litfin graduated in 1986 from the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Science, her class was the first to have a 50-50 male to female ratio. When brothers Joshua and Jonathan Kobuszewski graduated in 2006, it was two-thirds women. The brothers, who have joined their father Mike in the Indian Creek Veterinary Clinic... more »

At this time of year, as Elizabeth Lowenger scouts out new students for the venerable Ontario Veterinary College, she eyes candidates with good marks — usually the mid-80s. Among those high achievers she’s particularly interested are those who for generations were the mainstay of veterinary medicine and now are rare as white horses — men.... more »