Expand+• Applicants are required to have a degree in veterinary medicine.
• Applicants will require a computer and Broadband Internet access and an intermediate level of IT skills (be able to browse the Internet, download files, utilise email, complete...

Hide-• Applicants are required to have a degree in veterinary medicine.
• Applicants will require a computer and Broadband Internet access and an intermediate level of IT skills (be able to browse the Internet, download files, utilise email, complete online forms, and use desktop editing software such as MS Excel and Word). While an induction programme to online learning will be provided, applicants whose IT skills do not meet an intermediate standard are advised to undertake beginners IT training before commencing the programme.

Expand+GradCert Small Animal Medicine
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 30)

Grad Cert Small Animal Medicine is suitable for Veterinary Surgeons working in small animal practice who wish to develop their approach and knowledge more specifically in th...

Hide-GradCert Small Animal Medicine
Graduate Taught (level 9 nfq, credits 30)

Grad Cert Small Animal Medicine is suitable for Veterinary Surgeons working in small animal practice who wish to develop their approach and knowledge more specifically in this area.

The programme is offered as an online distance-learning course. Applicants will be expected to commit to online learning and attend an introductory session and one prescribed workshop in UCD.

Vision and Values Statement
The Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Medicine is aimed at the qualified veterinary practitioner already working in small animal practice who wishes to develop their approach and knowledge more specifically in this area. It is also suitable for vets wishing to refresh their skills after a career break or new graduates wishing to enhance their skill base. Participants should gain the confidence to approach and manage clinical cases to a higher level.

Programme Educational Philosophy
• This programme focuses on an evidence-based approach to Small Animal Medicine aiming to equip veterinarians with the necessary skills to become effective evidence-based practitioners.
• The emphasis will be on taking an applied approach using case-based material and appraisal of current thinking.
• The aim is to engender a confident approach to clinical cases working to progress their diagnosis and management to a higher level.
• 90% of the course is on-line with some individual work but an emphasis on working as part of a group to enhance peer-to-peer learning.
• The approach will be flexible, with approximately 10-12 hours per week in the home environment.
• Throughout the programme, students will be expected to undertake self-directed study, receiving guidance from experts in the field and being exposed to the clinical expertise of a variety of veterinary specialists.
• Overall, the programme aims to develop independent learners with critical thinking skills and a propensity for life-long learning and professional development.

Programme Outcomes
• Communicate effectively to peers about case management.
• Critically evaluate the evidence-base for current approaches in small animal medicine.
• Define Evidence Based Practice and describe examples of its utility in Small Animal Medicine.
• Demonstrate a confident and rigorous approach to complex problem solving in Small Animal Medicine.
• Develop effective strategies for lifelong learning and continuing professional development.
• Make an evidence-based recommendation based on the evaluation of current literature.