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Why become an extra-mural studies (EMS) provider

Hosting extra-mural studies (EMS) placements benefits your practice and supports future veterinary professionals.

By hosting EMS students, you’ll not only support veterinary education but also bring real benefits to your practice. You’ll gain recognition within the profession, enjoy fresh perspectives and have the chance to spot potential team members.

Who can become an EMS provider?

Any vet school-approved, animal-focused workplace can host an EMS placement. This includes veterinary practices, zoos, wildlife parks, animal shelters, and farms. Such variety can give students unique learning opportunities and a range of perspectives.

What matters most is that you can offer students real insight into animal care, veterinary science, or related professional practices. Whatever your setting, the daily work and expertise could provide precisely the kind of learning experience that helps shape the vets of tomorrow.

Why become an EMS provider?

  1. Gain recognition and build your reputation
    Show your commitment to supporting the next generation of vets. Offering placements will boost your reputation in the veterinary community, with universities, and among your peers.
  2. Get motivated, willing, and capable assistance 
    EMS students are keen, energetic and eager to help. They can help boost your team's productivity, providing an extra pair of hands during busy periods.
  3. Forge closer relationships with veterinary schools
    Hosting EMS students puts you in direct contact with vet schools, opening the door to closer relationships, collaboration opportunities, research partnerships, and stronger professional networks.
  4. Contribute to your continuing professional development (CPD) requirements
    Teaching and mentoring EMS students is a practical way to meet your CPD requirements while sharing your expertise with future colleagues.
  5. Set yourself apart from other practices and organisations
    Becoming an EMS provider sets your practice or organisation apart. It highlights your dedication to education and professional standards, which are valued by clients and colleagues.
  6. Identify and recruit future team members
    EMS placements give you the chance to see students' skills, work ethic, and cultural fit firsthand. Many successful employment relationships begin with positive EMS experiences, making it a great way to build your future team.
  7. Create a rich learning experience for your existing team
    Students bring fresh perspectives, current academic knowledge, and innovative approaches from their university studies. This two-way learning keeps your team inspired and up to date with new approaches in veterinary science and practice.

Hear from our providers

Grace, a training officer and experienced EMS provider, shares her insights about the rewards and realities of hosting veterinary students.

Learn more about becoming an EMS provider

Information for EMS providers

Help shape the next generation of veterinary surgeons by providing practical extramural studies (EMS) learning opportunities. Get expert tips, connect with student vets nationwide, and support future professionals through hosted placements and hands-on clinical experience.

Ready to become an EMS provider?

Ready to become an EMS provider and start making a difference in veterinary education? The RCVS EMS National Booking Database serves as the central platform connecting students with placement opportunities across the UK.

How to register

For more information about becoming an EMS provider or questions about the booking database, contact us at [email protected]. 

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