BVA expresses concern over tuition fee proposals

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has voiced concerns that planned increases in higher education tuition fees will discourage students from pursuing careers in veterinary science.

Commenting on Lord Browne's higher education reform proposals in the lead-up to the Spending Review, the organisation suggested that vet students will be hit hard by the plans due to the longer duration of their courses.

BVA president Harvey Locke also pointed to the fact that these students are unable to earn money during holiday time due to extra mural study requirements, which incur further costs.

He said this will leave graduates facing debts of more than 30,000 pounds in course fees alone after completing a six-year programme, hindering efforts to widen the appeal of the profession.

"Costs for a veterinary degree add up quickly and graduates would be left with a mountain of debt when they start working in their chosen career," added Mr Locke.

This week also saw the BVA remind the government that animal welfare standards in the UK must not drop as a result of forthcoming budgetary cutbacks.