Program Overview

Introduction to Post-Graduate Training Programs

The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) Teaching Hospital, University of Prince Edward Island, offers world-class veterinary education through its post-graduate clinical training programs. These programs are designed to provide veterinarians with advanced clinical experience, mentorship, and specialized knowledge, preparing them for successful careers in general or specialty veterinary practice, academia, or research.

Why Choose AVC for Postgraduate Training

Excellence in Clinical Education

AVC is a leader in veterinary education, with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality clinical training. The post-graduate certificate (PGC) programs emphasize hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating a diverse range of animal species, guided by expert faculty in state-of-the-art facilities. The location on Prince Edward Island provides unique exposure to both small and large animal cases.

Dedicated Mentorship

PGC students and residents are supported by experienced clinicians who are committed to fostering the professional growth of everyone. Through personalized mentorship, students have the opportunity to refine their clinical skills, engage in collaborative problem-solving, and develop the confidence needed to excel in specialized veterinary fields.

Collaborative Environment

At AVC, a collegial and interdisciplinary approach to veterinary medicine is fostered. Post-Graduate Certificate students and residents work closely with faculty, fellow trainees, and students, participating in collaborative rounds, seminars, and case discussions. This dynamic, team-oriented setting encourages the exchange of ideas and the continuous advancement of clinical knowledge.

Post-Graduate Certificate Program

The Post-Graduate Certificate program provides recent veterinary graduates with a broad-based, year-long clinical experience across a variety of disciplines. Students work in rotations through various services, including:

• Small animal medicine and surgery
• Large animal medicine
• Ambulatory
• Surgery
• Theriogenology Students gain critical hands-on experience managing cases, performing procedures, and interacting with clients. They may also participate in emergency duty and on-call rotations, providing exposure to high-intensity, real-world scenarios under the guidance of seasoned clinicians.

Residency Program

The Residency Program at AVC offers veterinarians advanced training in a specific area of veterinary medicine. Residencies typically span three to four years and are designed to prepare veterinarians for board certification by relevant specialty colleges. All residencies are combined with advanced degree training (MVSc, MSc, or PhD). Residents benefit from in-depth clinical training in a chosen specialty, such as:

• Small animal medicine
• Surgery
• Large animal medicine
• Surgery
• Theriogenology
• Cardiology
• Clinical pathology
• Anatomic pathology
• Ambulatory equine
• Population medicine Under the supervision of board-certified specialists, residents engage in clinical case management, advanced diagnostics, and innovative treatment strategies. Additionally, residents are required to pursue research opportunities, contributing to the advancement of veterinary medicine while expanding their own expertise.

Program Benefits

• Comprehensive Clinical Experience: With a wide variety of animal species and case types, trainees at AVC develop a well-rounded skill set in veterinary medicine.
• Board-Certified Faculty: Faculty members are leaders in their fields, many of whom are recognized as board-certified specialists in areas such as surgery, internal