EMS health and safety
Explore your shared responsibilities for health and safety during EMS placements, including policies, BVA student insurance and professional liability requirements.
Policy and regulation EMS placement
If you’re a UK-based veterinary student interested in policy and regulation, this one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement shows you how veterinary expertise shapes law, standards and public policy. The placement is hosted by the RCVS in partnership with the Veterinary Policy Research Foundation (VPRF).
This programme gives you the chance to see explore careers beyond clinical practice.
The application deadline has passed; however, we hope to offer further placements later this year.
Broaden your understanding of the legislative and regulatory areas of animal care on this one-week EMS placement. You'll shadow RCVS staff and attend meetings at both the House of Lords in Westminster, and the RCVS offices in central London.
During your placement, you'll carry out activities that are key to the functions and objectives of the RCVS and Veterinary Policy Research Foundation. This hands-on experience will give you real insight into how policy decisions are made, and how veterinary professionals contribute to shaping the future of animal health and welfare.
If you're curious about policy work, interested in the regulatory side of veterinary medicine, or simply want to explore the different career paths available with your veterinary degree, this placement is ideal.
Who can apply
Applications are open to UK-based veterinary medicine students in their third year or above.
Costs and support
If you live outside London, we’ll provide accommodation and contribute towards travel costs for the week.
Placement dates for 2026
- Week commencing 26 January
- Week commencing 2 March
- Week commencing 4 May
- Week commencing 6 July
How we assess applications
We’re looking for a clear interest and motivation in policy and public service. We’ll consider:
- Commitment to improving animal health and welfare
- Interest in veterinary public health, One Health and sustainability
- Support for professional diversity and widening participation
- Advancing the veterinary professions
- Any relevant policy or research experience
- Understanding of VPRF and the role of veterinarians in policy
Apply for the policy and regulation placement
Ready to apply? Please send us:
- Confirmation of your university enrolment
- A one-page cover letter explaining why you’re interested and how the placement fits with your career goals
Send your application to Mark Sundhu at [email protected] by 12 December 2025.