The modular certificate scheme is a new, more flexible approach to veterinary post-graduate qualifications. It offers manageably-sized modules, so candidates can collect credits as they are achieved, even if their interests or practice area subsequently change. The modular certificate scheme is more appropriate, accessible and attainable than traditional end-loaded examinations, for practising veterinarians working in a wide range of practice areas.
The modular certificate scheme will enable vets to:
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Take assessments recognised by both RCVS and universities
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Fit in their professional development activities around their other commitments
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Choose modules that reflect their own interests
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Learn together with other vets, and related professions
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Be assessed by experts at RCVS-accredited universities
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Choose whether to take a course, or study independently
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Achieve a recognised RCVS qualification - the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP)
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Demonstrate their ongoing commitment to CPD through the achievement of certificated modules.
For further information please use the links below:
Structure of the modular certificate scheme
Universities and assessment of modules
Structure of the modular certificate scheme
Under the modular system, candidates can build up credits towards an RCVS post-graduate qualification called the Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice, by passing a series of modules. Alternatively, candidates can simply be assessed on their individual modules as part of their ongoing CPD, and RCVS will keep a record of their achievements.
Modules are divided into three groups - A, B and C. The diagram below shows the value of the credits within each group. Please click on the diagram to open a PDF file for a clearer view.
To achieve the full Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP), candidates must pass the A-Professional Key Skills module (15 credits), the B-Clinical Key Skills module (5 credits) and at least one other B module (10 credits), together with either three C modules or a combination of B and C modules (30 credits). Modules can be attempted in any order, though most candidates will find it appropriate to attempt the Key Skills modules first.
It is also possible to be assessed on individual modules as part of ongoing CPD activities, without working towards the full RCVS certificate.
View a list of modules currently available for enrolment. More modules will become available in due course.
Designated Certificates
There is also a range of designated (named) qualifications in addition to the general CertAVP. These include species-based designated certificates such as CertAVP (Equine Practice) and CertAVP (Zoological Medicine), as well as discipline-based certificates like CertAVP (Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging) and CertAVP (Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law).
Candidates who wish to work towards one of these qualifications must pass the A-Professional Key Skills module and B-Clinical Key Skills module. Candidates must then choose the remaining modules from a specific range of options relevant to the subject area.
The module combination rules for each of the designated certificates are provided below. These lay out the range of options available for candidates wishing to obtain a particular designated CertAVP. (Please note that some of the modules mentioned in these documents may not currently be available through accredited universities.)
Candidates who are undertaking one of the designated certificates must take a final synoptic assessment, conducted by RCVS, once all the required modules have been passed. In most cases this will take the form of an oral and/or practical examination. More information on this will be available shortly.
Universities and Assessment of Modules
The assessment of the modules will be conducted by universities which have been accredited by RCVS for this purpose.
RCVS has produced guidance for the universities on how modules should be assessed.
This can be found in the General Guidance & Assessment for All Modules (see 'Related Documents' - top right) document, and also in the specifications for each module. However, universities may vary the assessment methods (subject to approval by RCVS), so candidates may find it helpful to check with the university before preparing to study.
Synoptic Assessment
The only element of assessment not conducted by universities is the final synoptic assessment for candidates wishing to achieve a designated (named) certificate. This will be arranged by RCVS once all the required modules are completed, and in most cases this will take the form of an oral and/or practical examination. Further information can be found in the Synoptic Assessment Guidelines and you may apply for the synoptic exam by downloading the application form (see 'Related Documents' box, top right).
View a list of accredited universities, and the modules they are assessing.
Many universities, and other CPD providers, may also offer courses on the topics covered in the modules, and candidates are free to choose whichever mode of study best suits their learning needs. However, there is no obligation on candidates to attend a course at a particular university. All modules will be available on a self-study basis, and some may be available through distance learning.
Modules are not available for enrolment until there is an accredited university to offer them.
Enrolment
Candidates must enrol with both the RCVS and the assessing university in order to take modules and have their credits recorded by the RCVS.
Enrolling with RCVS enables us to keep a record of a candidate's credits, wherever they are achieved. It also enables the RCVS to keep in touch with candidates, and provide regular updates about new modules and any relevant courses. Candidates can also opt to have their details made available to others enrolled on the same modules, so they can network and form 'learning sets'.
Candidates cannot earn credits to count towards a CertAVP unless they are enrolled with the RCVS.
You must hold a veterinary qualification which would entitle you to register as a member of the 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 your 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.
The cost of enrolment is £56, renewable annually for a fee of £28 (payable by direct debit). The maximum enrolment period is ten years.
Candidates must enrol with both RCVS and the assessing university in order to take modules and have their credits recorded by RCVS.
Enrolling with RCVS enables us to keep a record of a candidate’s credits, wherever they are achieved. It also enables RCVS to keep in touch with candidates, and provide regular updates about new modules and any relevant courses. Candidates can also opt to have their details made available to others enrolled on the same modules, so they can network and form ‘learning sets’.
Candidates cannot earn credits to count towards a CertAVP unless they are enrolled with RCVS.
The RCVS may share your data with accredited Universities and publish your achievements.
To enrol, please complete the enrolment form as well as the direct debit mandate (see 'Related Documents' - top right) and send both these forms to the RCVS together with a copy of your CPD card. The enrolment form and direct debit mandate are available to download from the 'Related documents' box, top right. To download a CPD record card, please visit the Continuing professional development page.
FAQ and more information
Want to know more?
Try the frequently asked questions page, or contact the Education Department on 020 7202 0778 for more information.