Program Overview

Introduction to the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP)

The Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP) is a flexible postgraduate veterinary qualification designed to allow students to choose areas of study that are of most interest or relevance to them. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has accredited the University of Liverpool to provide and assess a range of modules that can be accumulated towards the RCVS CertAVP.

Eligibility

The CertAVP programme is open to Members of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (MRCVS), or to veterinary professionals who hold a registerable qualification. Students may begin their CertAVP with one year's experience as a practising vet, but to complete their certificate, they must have been practising for at least three years.

Programme Structure

To be awarded the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP), students must successfully complete the following modules:

• 1x A-Module
• 1x B-Module
• 4x C-Modules Students can replace a C-Module with an additional B-Module if preferred. The programme allows students to work towards a general CertAVP qualification or opt for a named qualification a 'designated certificate' in a particular subject area.

Method of Teaching

The University of Liverpool welcomes students into a supportive teaching environment designed to help them get the most from their student experience. Modules are delivered as part of a fully-taught, structured e-learning programme, and students are supported by veterinarians who are specialists in their subject area. Students work as part of a teaching group, with regular contact with fellow students and academics online via evening journal clubs and discussion boards.

Timetable

Modules are provided over three semesters January, April, and September and each module consists of 12 weeks of study. A & B modules run every semester, and students should enrol on one module per semester.

Assessment

Assessment is ongoing and throughout each module, with a number of assignments having set submission dates and feedback provided by module tutors. Assignments take various forms, including written reports, essays, short answer questions, and assessed discussion boards. Some modules also require the completion of a case log, and for those candidates taking the equine dentistry modules, there is one compulsory practical element.

Fees

Modules are priced individually, and students can book and pay for one module at a time. There is no additional cost for assessment throughout each module; however, there is an additional fee for Synoptic Examinations. Current fees are listed on booking forms, and please note that all module fees are set for the current academic year and may be subject to increase in future years.

Designated Certificates

The University of Liverpool offers various designated certificate options, including:

• Small Animal Medicine
• Small Animal Surgery
• Equine Medicine
• Equine Surgery
• Production Animal Practice To work towards a designated certificate, students must successfully complete A & B modules and then choose their C-modules from a narrower selection. In addition to the modules, candidates working towards a designated CertAVP must also pass a Synoptic Examination.

Synoptic Examination

The Synoptic Examination is an oral examination in the chosen designation and is not an examination of the materials covered in the CertAVP modules. It is an all-encompassing examination on the chosen designation, wherein candidates present themselves to be examined as an Advanced Practitioner in the subject. The modules will be useful as an aid in preparation for the Synoptic Exam; however, some examination material might not have been discussed in module teachings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP) work?

The CertAVP requires students to complete 1x A-Module, 1x B-Module, and 4x C-Modules. Students can work towards a general CertAVP qualification or choose a designated certificate in a specific subject area.

Do I have to complete the modules in a particular order?

Yes, at the University of Liverpool, students must complete A & B-Modules in order, prior to continuing with any C-Modules.

What is a designated certificate?

A designated certificate is a specific qualification within the CertAVP programme, requiring a particular combination of modules and a Synoptic Examination.

How do I enrol onto a CertAVP module?

Before starting to work towards individual modules, students must enrol for the CertAVP with the RCVS. Students should also inform the RCVS of their intention to study their CertAVP modules at the University of Liverpool.

How is the RCVS involved?

The CertAVP is an RCVS qualification, and the University of Liverpool provides and assesses modules for delegates to complete towards the Certificate on behalf of the RCVS.

Can I complete the Certificate if I am not eligible to enrol with the RCVS?

Yes, the University of Liverpool has accredited all of its CertAVP modules as part of a Postgraduate Certificate, Diploma, or Masters degree award. Students can complete modules in the same way as RCVS-enrolled Certificate delegates and count them towards a University of Liverpool award.

Module List

The University of Liverpool offers a range of CertAVP modules, including:

• Small Animal Modules
• Equine Modules
• Production Animal Modules Each module is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study.

Conclusion

The Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP) is a flexible and comprehensive postgraduate qualification that allows students to choose areas of study that are of most interest or relevance to them. With a range of designated certificate options and a supportive teaching environment, the CertAVP programme is an excellent choice for veterinary professionals looking to advance their knowledge and skills.