Dalhousie and one of the world's most renowned specialist universities for veterinary and biomedical sciences recently signed an agreement to deepen their international collaboration.
Dalhousie and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London, UK signed a Memorandum of Understanding on March 5 that establishes a framework for enhancing areas of collaborations such as academic exchange, research, student mobility, and exploration of veterinary degree pathways.
Dr. Heather Bruce, dean in the Faculty of Agriculture, Dr. Miriam Gordon, assistant dean international, and Dr. Lori Parsons, an assistant professor and director of Dal's Vet Tech program travelled to RVC last month for a first-hand look at RVC’s world‑leading facilities.
Travel seamless and smooth
The delegation travelled from Nova Scotia to London using a direct transatlantic flight, demonstrating how accessible the partnership can be for future exchanges of students, faculty and researchers. Upon arrival in London, travel to RVC’s Camden Campus (near King’s Cross–St Pancras) was straightforward with direct transit connections into central London.
The visit also included the Hawkshead Campus, RVC’s major clinical and teaching site, which is easily reached via public transit or a short commute from central London. The smooth travel logistics underscore the practicality of ongoing staff and student mobility between institutions — one of the core aims of the new MOU.
During the campus tours, the Dalhousie delegation met with senior RVC leaders, including representatives from International Relations and Academic Programs and learned more about RVC’s research strengths, clinical facilities, and student support systems.
The Dalhousie delegation was also able to connect with Cassandra Andersen (above left), a former Faculty of Agriculture student currently studying at RVC. This interaction provided valuable insight into the student experience, academic environment, and support networks available to future Dalhousie students who may pursue studies at RVC.
The partnership between the Faculty of Agriculture and the Royal Veterinary College marks a significant milestone in expanding global learning and research opportunities. With accessible travel, strong institutional alignment, and a shared commitment to advancing veterinary and agricultural sciences, the MOU positions both institutions to develop impactful and mutually beneficial initiatives in the years ahead.