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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.

On this page

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.

Research highlights

Our research explores the issues shaping the veterinary professions, from workforce trends and professional wellbeing to regulation, practice standards, and innovation. The featured studies below provide evidence to inform decision-making, support the professions, and improve outcomes for animals and those who care for them.

Veterinary Nurse Prescribing, an RCVS research study (2026)

This research aims to provide more information about the suitability of a vet nurse prescriber role in first-opinion practice, and the potential risks to animal health and welfare.

2.02 MB - Published: 10 Jun 2026

Exit Survey 2022-2024

A major workforce study exploring why vets and vet nurses leave the UK profession, along with their future career plans and pathways. It provides valuable insight into retention, career mobility, and the factors influencing decisions to leave.

1.17 MB

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Profession

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Profession, together with the 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession, forms the largest and most comprehensive study of the UK veterinary sector, providing evidence to inform future strategy and policy.

See also our 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Profession infographic below.

1.13 MB

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession

This survey provides a detailed picture of the veterinary nursing workforce, exploring career pathways, workplace experiences, wellbeing, and future intentions across the profession.

See also our 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession infographic below.

1.13 MB

2024 Survey of the Professions infographics

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Profession infographic (PDF)

The 2024 Survey of the Veterinary Nursing Profession infographic (PDF)

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].