Three people looking at papers on a desk.

Our research

At the RCVS, research is at the heart of improving veterinary practice, animal welfare, and professional standards across the UK. Our research programme gathers insights from veterinary professionals, practices, the wider animal health community, and members of the public to inform policy, guide education, and support evidence-based decision-making.

Our focus areas

Professional insights: understanding the experiences and needs of veterinary professionals.

Practice standards: research to improve practice management, clinical outcomes, and animal welfare.

Policy and innovation: providing evidence to guide veterinary regulation and professional development.

Our research initiatives in action

Exit Survey 2022–2024 - a major workforce study exploring why vet surgeons and vet nurses leave the UK profession, and their future plans.

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Profession and the 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession - the largest and most comprehensive studies of the UK veterinary sector, providing evidence to guide strategy and policy for years to come. (Also see our related veterinary profession infographic and veterinary nursing profession infographic.)

International Postgraduate Veterinary Education Symposium (Nov 2025) - a global community launched by the RCVS to promote research, scholarship, and innovation in postgraduate veterinary education.

RCVS Facts

RCVS Facts is published annually and contains a detailed selection of facts and figures about veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses in the UK and overseas.

New workforce model for veterinary professionals

The RCVS has worked with the Institute for Employment Studies (IES) to develop a new workforce model for the veterinary professions. Using current data, the model looks ahead to 2035 to estimate how many veterinary professionals will be needed and how this compares to the expected demand for veterinary services.

Download the report

Modelling the future supply of vets and vet nurses (PDF)

Get involved

You could help shape the future of the veterinary profession by sharing your insights through surveys, interviews, or pilot projects.

If you’re interested in a particular project or would like to know more about RCVS research in general, please contact the Research Team at [email protected].