A novel carbon modified Co3O4/BiVO4 p-n heterojunction photocatalyst (Co3O4/BiVO4/C) is prepared via one-step method. The Co3O4/BiVO4/C photocatalyst is characterized by SEM, Raman, UV-vis DRS, electrochemical performance analysis and so forth. In addition, the optimum activity of the Co3O4/BiVO4/C p-n heterojunction is higher than that of pure Co3O4 and BiVO4 for the degradation of tetracycline under visible light. The improved photocatalytic property could be ascribed to the enhanced light absorption and the facilitated separation of photogenerated charge carriers through forming a p-n heterojunction. Furthermore, the Co3O4/BiVO4/C has superior magnetic properties, recyclability and stability, which is conducive to practical application. (C) 2018 Published by Elsevier B.V.