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From the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh

RCVS CertAVP

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I enrol for a modular certificate?
You will need to enrol with the RCVS and also with the module provider using their online enrolment systems. R(D)SVS enrolment should be open early in 2009. You will have the option to enrol for individual or multiple modules, or for the full certificate.
Why do I have to enrol with RCVS as well as the university?
Enrolling with RCVS means that they will keep a record of your credits, wherever you achieve them. It also enables them to keep in touch with you and let you know about any new developments, modules or courses. You cannot earn credits towards an RCVS qualification unless you are enrolled with them.
What experience do I need?
You must hold a veterinary qualification which would entitle you to register as a member of RCVS, and you must have at least one year's experience working as a practising veterinary surgeon before enrolling for any module and be able to provide evidence of CPD for that period. If you graduated in 2007 or later, you will be expected to have completed the RCVS Professional Development Phase (PDP) before enrolling for any modules. (PDP counts as CPD for graduates in their first year of practice).
How many credits do I need to get the CertAVP?
You need to obtain 60 credits to obtain a CertAVP qualification. This will be made up of the two Key Skills modules (20 credits in total), at least one B-module (10 credits) and either three C-modules or a combination of B and C modules to a total of 30 credits.
What is a 'designated certificate'?
A designated certificate is a specific modular route leading to a named qualification - for example CertAVP (Equine Stud Medicine) or CertAVP (Small Animal Practice). To obtain a designated certificate, you will need to choose your modules carefully from a limited list. Most designated certificates will also require a separate final assessment (synoptic assessment) once all the modules have been passed.
Are there any combinations of C-modules that are not permitted?
No, you can do any combination of C-modules, although certain combinations are required for designated certificates.
Do I need to go on a course to get a module?
No. We offer some courses covering the module content (information about these are linked to the individual modules details - see Edinburgh Modules), but all modules will be available via an assessment-only route for candidates who wish to study in their own time.
Does it matter which order I take the modules in?
No, the modules can be taken in any order.
Will I need to come to Edinburgh to be assessed?
Many of the modules do not have an exam component, so you will not need to come to Edinburgh to be assessed. The modules assessed partly by examination where attendance at Edinburgh would be essential are:- All Equine C modules except C-VD.4 and all Sheep, Cardiology and Zoo Medicine C modules.
Will I be able to take part in the CertAVP if English is not my first language?
Candidates who are European graduates do not have to take an IELTS test to become a member of the RCVS. For those graduating outside Europe, the RCVS expects a level 7 before the candidate can sit the membership exam.
The University of Edinburgh has set a recommended minimum level of English for courses graded to a postgraduate level such as the CertAVP. Although it is not essential that you have evidence of your level of English when applying, we would strongly recommend that you are confident in your level of written and spoken English to ensure that you gain the greatest benefit from taking part in the Certificate. Please note, there is no minimum language requirement for our courses.

If you have any specific enquiries about CertAVP modules or designated certificates, please contact the CertAVP Administrator, Irene Harris, by email or by phone on +44 (0)131 650 6149.

Contact hours are 9.30-12.45, Monday to Friday.

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