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MSc in Veterinary Education front cover

What is the MSc in Veterinary Education?

Promoting teaching excellence across the veterinary profession

The MSc in Veterinary Education is aimed at those actively involved in veterinary education or workplace training, to enhance your skills in excelling the students you support.

Focused on mature learners with busy schedules, the MSc in Veterinary Education is a part-time, fully remote, flexible programme.

The programme will equip you with the skills to develop your performance as an educator and provide an enhanced learning experience to anyone you teach or train.

Developed by experts at the ºÚÁÏÉç's prestigious LIVE Centre, the programme will enable you to;

  • Obtain expert input on your teaching / training ·        
  • Enhance your career progression ·        
  • Participate in a supportive peer community of veterinary educators around the world.

The programme is aimed at:

  • Professionals who are involved in the delivery of education and training, at either further or higher education institutions, undergraduate or postgraduate level, in the veterinary or para-veterinary sectors 
  • Practising veterinary surgeons and other para-veterinary professionals involved in workplace training.

The programme aim to support and develop veterinary educators to become reflective practitioners, who are able to demonstrate self-directedness, independence and autonomy in lifelong learning and scholarship.

Programme Structure

We offer a suite of courses within the MSc in Veterinary Education. The programme comprises three stages:

The Certificate can be completed in one academic year, focused on support for teaching, including in a veterinary clinic.  You than have the option to continue onto the Diploma and MSC.

Delivery

The course is delivered through distance learning - you will study in your own time online, using the ºÚÁÏÉç virtual learning environment and other virtual learning tools.

Application

To make your application, please click the How to Apply and select the highest-level qualification that you expect to complete.  Applications will close on Wednesday 12th June 2024.

If at the point of application you are not sure if you want to study a full Masters course, you can apply to either the PG Certificate or PG Diploma and, on successful completion of that course and with permission from the Course Director, then transfer to the next stage.

The majority of applicants will begin their studies with the PG Certificate. However, for advice on the level of entry most suited to your needs, please check the entry requirements or contact the programme support team at mscvetedu@rvc.ac.uk  

For further information, please contact us: admissions@rvc.ac.uk or phone 020 7468 5147

Timetables

The timetable for the PG Certificate in Veterinary Education 2024-25 academic year is available here.

The timetable for the PG Diploma in Veterinary Education 2024-26 is available here

The timetable for the MSc in Veterinary Education 2024-26 is available here

For further information, please contact us: mscvetedu@rvc.ac.uk


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Postgraduate Certificate in Veterinary Education

The Postgraduate Certificate in Veterinary Education aims to facilitate skills and knowledge in all areas of teaching and assessment, to maintain evidence based professional practice, and to develop competent and reflective practitioners. 

The course is designed to meet the requirements of the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF). Please note, however, that applications to be a Fellow of HEA can only be made by those who are teaching at level six and above. The course comprises 60 credits and consists of ten units of study, structured within two modules:

  • Module 1 - Foundations in Veterinary Education (FIVE) This module provides a broad overview of the key principles which underpin professional education. The units of study are designed to cover the elements needed to achieve AFHEA.
  • Module 2 - Applied Concepts in Veterinary Education (ACIVE) This module builds on the concepts covered in module 1 and provides a broad overview of how they may be applied practically in veterinary and para-veterinary education. The units of study are designed to cover the elements needed to achieve FHEA.

Aims

To develop educators who are able to engage with education research and theory and use this to critically evaluate, reflect on and develop their own teaching or educational practice.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the module, and as a result of support to develop reflection on experience, participants will be able to:

  • Design, justify and critically evaluate a range of educational approaches, taking into account the diverse needs of students and different disciplinary areas, as well as personal reflections on experience
  • Develop, critically evaluate and implement appropriate assessment and feedback strategies to support students in achieving their learning outcomes
  • Critically evaluate education theory and research and use it to critically reflect on and develop one’s own education practice
  • Recognise the positioning of one’s own role in both the local and wider educational context, and be able to make appropriate pedagogical decisions about student education in a way that reflects one’s own role as well as the impact on wider stakeholders.

The timetable for the PG Certificate in Veterinary Education 2024-25 academic year is available here.

Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Education

The Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Education comprises the above plus four optional modules of 15 credits each, chosen from:

  • Assessment, feedback and learning
  • Clinical reasoning and patient-based teaching
  • Curriculum development and leadership
  • Education leadership and coaching
  • Engaging large groups in the modern university
  • *Evidence based veterinary education
  • Professional Identity and Interprofessionalism
  • Small group teaching
  • Technology supported learning and teaching

*Bridging module for MSc, for students who do not have prior Level 7 research experience.

Aims

To develop educators who can use education research and theory to critically reflect on their own education practice, and in addition use this knowledge and skills to support the development of peers and contribute to wider curriculum and programme design.

Learning Outcomes

  • Building on the PG Certificate outcomes,  engage in-depth with current education literature and discourses in a specific subject area, and consider this critically within the context of participants’ own education experiences and roles ( Competence: supporting critical development)  
  • Design, justify and critically reflect on education interventions for one’s own context, based on pedagogically sound principles and theories, and demonstrate how these fit into the wider curriculum design (Assessment: practical)  
  • Critically reflect on others’  teaching practices, and design feedback to support peer development (teaching/ formative assessment: peer observation)
  • Critically reflect on one’s own knowledge, skills and attitudes and use this to inform ongoing personal and professional development (essay)
  • Engage with the complexities of education by recognising the multiplicity and context-dependent nature of problem-solving and education design [practical and written assignment].

The timetable for the PG Diploma in Veterinary Education 2024-26 is available here

MSc in Veterinary Education

The MSc in Veterinary Education comprises the above, plus two compulsory modules:

  • Educational Research methods – Qualitative and Quantitative (15 credits)
  • Research project (45 credits).

Aims

To support educators in the practice of education research, including critical review of contemporary research, the needs of education, and personal and professional development as educators, researchers and leaders.

Learning Outcomes

An MSc graduate of the programme will be able to: ·        

  • Critically evaluate qualitative and quantitative education research that is relevant to one’s own discipline (ERMQQ)     
  • Identify and critically assess education and how it meets the demands of local needs, and design research that contributes to addressing identified education issues (ERMQQ and RP)        
  • Develop and carry out education research, including applying appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative research methods (RP)
  • Take the lead on preparing education-based manuscripts suitable for peer reviewed publication (MSc written report)         
  • Critically reflect on one’s own research and related education practice (MSc viva)          
  • Communicate the methods and outcomes of one’s own education research to experienced colleagues (Written report and viva)

The timetable for the MSc in Veterinary Education 2024-26 is available here 

Academic qualifications

Applicants are required to be actively involved in the teaching and training of students and/or work-place training, as there are compulsory practical assessments that involve teaching.

Course Prior Qualification Needed
PG Certificate Bachelor's degree or equivalent
(*RVNs without degrees see below)
PG Diploma PG Certificate in Higher Education OR
FHEA/APEL accreditation (check your eligibility for FHEA status on the HE Academy site)
MSc PG Diploma in Veterinary Education

*Veterinary Nursing applicants without degrees

We welcome applicants whose background is in Veterinary Nursing and are aware not all such applicants will hold degrees. Degree-level study is important due to the level of study on the course being Level 7 (i.e. above a Bachelor's degree) and so those without study at at least Level 5 (e.g. a Foundation degree) will first need to complete a Bridging module 'Contemporary Study Skills' with the ºÚÁÏÉç in order to gain a place on the PGCert.

RVNs applying to the PGCert without the equivalent of a UK degree will, if successful, have the bridging module applied automatically as part of their offer conditions. They do not need to apply having already completed this module. 

Please note that the CSS bridging module begins in April each year. Depending on the timing of your application, if you are required to complete this module, you may need to defer your start date until the following year. 

English language requirements

The course demands an excellent understanding of both written and spoken English language. If your first language is not English you may be required to take an English Language qualification:

  • IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 or above with minimum 6.5 in each component

For those without IELTS, please see our  for a full list of qualifications we will accept as alternatives.

PLEASE NOTE: All teaching observation sessions MUST be presented in English.

What will I be able to do with my qualification?

The MSc programme will provide you with the skills to develop your performance as an educator and to provide an enhanced learning experience to anyone you teach or train. It will enable you to get expert input on your teaching, to enhance your career progression and to participate in a supportive peer community of veterinary educators around the world.

The MSc appeals to a broad range of individuals from a wide variety of veterinary professions. For example, as well as those aiming to build a career in higher level education or academia, course participants have included animal welfare education officers, veterinary pharmaceutical company representatives, veterinary librarians, practising veterinarians, veterinary nurses and many more. Approximately half of our students are UK based with the remainder studying as distance learners from USA, Canada, Australia, France, Spain, Denmark, Ireland, Hong Kong, Sri-Lanka and Kenya, amongst others.

Your MSc is internationally recognised, being awarded by the University of London with the Lead College named as the Royal Veterinary College (RVC). The ºÚÁÏÉç was the first veterinary school in the world to hold full accreditation from AVMA, EAEVE, RCVS and AVBC,  currently holds full accreditation from RCVS, AVBC and AVMA and conditional from EAEVE.

What our students say

It’s so individualised and personal, I feel like I am learning for my benefit and not the instructors.

Interactions with like-minded and passionate lecturers and peers.

I really like the thoughtful, evidence-based approach to every topic, including openly discussing how difficult it can be to have "evidence" in certain topics and yet acknowledge their importance and seek to make them as scientifically sound as possible.

I really enjoy the discussions with the educators running the modules as they are very enthusiastic about their subjects.

Because of the strength of the program, I have developed a great interest in the topic and have progressed to wanting a masters instead of the certificate I originally signed up for.

I like that all the content is provided, and you are able to work through it at your own pace.

PG Cert instructors very welcoming, supportive, approachable, display genuine enthusiasm. 

The programme calls on the expertise of a core team of ºÚÁÏÉç staff and lecturers. Additionally, lecturers and consultants from outside the college bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and perspective from other institutions.

ºÚÁÏÉç core team

Professor Liz Chan:  Professor of Higher Education and Course Director

Ms Crystal Cooper: Online Developer in Distance Learning and Veterinary Education

Dr Rachel Davis: PG Certificate Co-Lead / PG Diploma Co-Lead

Ms Emma Driver: Senior Teaching Fellow 

Mrs Kirsty Fox: PG Diploma Lead / MSc Co-Lead

Ms Emily HallPG Certificate Co-Lead   

Dr Tierney Kinnison: MSc Co-Lead

Dr Avril Senior: Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Education

Ms Anna Willis: Course Support Administrator (mscvetedu@rvc.ac.uk)

Additional experts

Course Tutor

Dr Sarah Channon: Module Leader

: Course Tutor

When are applications open?
Applications are open on an annual basis, early February to early June, to commence study in September.  We are unable to accept applications outside of the admissions window.

How long does the programme take to complete?
The full programme takes 3-6 years to complete.  We offer flexible study routes on the PGDip and MSc, which you select to best suit your areas of interest and time available.

  • The PGCert is taken over one year.
  • The PG Diploma can be taken over one or two years
  • The MSc can be taken over one year, 18 months or two years.

How much time do I need to spend studying?
Study hours are based on the credits awarded for the individual modules. They include a combination of contact time, self-study and reflection:

  • Focused study time, working through online course materials and engaging in required module activities.
  • Assessment time: planning and preparing formal assignments.
  • Informal study time: reflecting on the application of taught content to one’s daily practice, which might take place during the participant’s own teaching and professional work.
Course Notional study time Credits
PG Certificate 600 hours 60
PG Diploma 600 hours 60
MSc 600 hours 60

Are there compulsory sessions?
No, there is no compulsory attendance, we understand that you have very busy lives. Much of the learning will be in your own time, however PGCert students are expected to attend one synchronous session each week, per unit.

  • Unit webinars and reflection clinics are usually held 2-3pm on Wednesdays, so this would be the ideal time to hold in your diary if possible. The sessions are recorded, but students do find it more beneficial to attend. ·        
  • Online tutorials are flexible to suit individual group members.

I am not actually teaching at the moment. Can I still apply?
In order to successfully complete this course, applicants are required to be actively involved in the teaching of students and/or work-place training as there are compulsory practical assessments that involve teaching.

Is there tutorial support?
Yes. You will be assigned to a tutor who is available throughout to help you with any queries or challenges you may be experiencing.

How much feedback will I get?
Students will receive regular feedback, both formal and informal, throughout the programme. Feedback may be written, in person or via online links / calls. The aim of the programme is to enable students to develop as reflective practitioners primarily through the use of formative assessment.

Is there a practical element to the course?
Yes. The programme is a combination of theoretical study and practical assignments. For example, as part of the PG Certificate you will do a Teaching Observation; successful completion of this task is mandatory in order to pass the PG Certificate. You will need to consider if you will be able to teach in English at your current place of work. If this is problematic, we can sometimes offer Distance Learners the opportunity to teach here at the ºÚÁÏÉç in England but travel to and from the ºÚÁÏÉç will be at your own expense.   

How are teaching observations conducted?
The objective of teaching observations is to assess how you plan, execute and self-critique a typical teaching session, whether that is a large group lecture, a small group discussion or a practical demonstration. You will be asked to film yourself whilst teaching and then write an analysis of how the session went. The video and the analysis will then be marked by your tutor who will provide feedback.

How will I be assessed?
The assessment for each part of the course involves a combination of formative and summative written assignments, as well as practical assignments. In all cases, assessments have been designed to incorporate the learner’s own work requirements and facilitate reflective practice.

I am not a native English speaker. Can I still take this course?  
The course demands an excellent understanding of both written and spoken English language. If your first language is not English you may be required to take an English Language qualification: IELTS (Academic) score of 7.0 or above with minimum 6.5 in each component.

For those without IELTS, please see our English Language Requirements page for a full list of qualifications we will accept as alternatives.

PLEASE NOTE: All teaching observation sessions MUST be presented in English.

What sort of research projects do students undertake?
A research project is compulsory as part of the MSc phase of the programme. The project must have an educational significance and be feasible to conduct within your study period. An ºÚÁÏÉç supervisor will be allocated and students will be given guidance on developing the project and planning the research.

What happens if I want to take a study break?
The ºÚÁÏÉç team, administrators as well as teaching staff, are available to help you with any problems that you may have. However, if for any reason, you need to take a break from your studies, you will need to formally request a deferral. Deferral will be subject to compliance with the ºÚÁÏÉç College Regulations and Procedures.

Is this a Masters qualification that is recognised internationally?
The ºÚÁÏÉç is part of the University of London and therefore the Masters qualification will be from the University of London with the Lead College being named as the ºÚÁÏÉç. The ºÚÁÏÉç is the only school in the world to hold full accreditation from AVMA, RCVS, EAEVE and AVBC. Further details regarding the international status of this qualification in the USA can be found here:  

What does AFHEA and FHEA mean; are these only relevant to the UK?
AFHEA (Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy) and FHEA (Fellow of the Higher Education Academy) are both part of the AdvanceHE professional recognition scheme. This scheme provides international recognition of your commitment to professionalism in teaching and learning in higher education and demonstrates that your practice is aligned with the AdvanceHE PSF (Professional Standards Framework). It provides an indicator of professional identity for higher education practitioners, including the entitlement to use post-nominal letters; as such it is a portable asset, that has UK-wide relevance and which is increasingly recognised by higher and further education institutions around the world.

Do you have a range of professions and nationalities represented in the student body?
Students come from a variety of backgrounds, both in terms of profession and nationality. Professions include academics from further and higher education, veterinary nursing and veterinary pharmaceuticals, as well as practising veterinarians and support staff. Approximately half of the current PG Certificate cohort is Distance Learners, who come from a number of overseas locations including Hong Kong, Australia, USA, Pakistan, Africa and Europe.

Can credits from sections of the degree be transferred to other qualifications?
Not at the moment.  

What Level of qualification is this?
This is a Level 7 qualification, as described in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications:        

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for students commencing the course in 2024/25 are as follows:

Course Prior qualification needed Minimum study period Maximum study period Course structure Notional study time Credits

2024/25 
Fees

PG Certificate University degree OR equivalent educational experience acceptable to the University of London 1 year 2 years 2 compulsory modules 600 hours 60

£4,140

PG Diploma PG Certificate in Higher Education or FHEA/APEL accreditation 1 year 3 years 4 optional modules 600 hours 60 £4,140
MSc PG Diploma in Veterinary Education 1 year 2 years Research project plus 1 compulsory module 600 hours 60 £4,140
MSc Total        

£12,430

(£11,187*)

NB - The annual fee is reflective of the 60 credits unique to that level (i.e. the PGDip in full compromises 120 credits and the MSc 180).

*a 10% discount is applied if fees for the full programme are paid in advance. 

Discounts are available for organisations who sponsor four or more participants.

The College offers self-funded students the option to pay in three instalments. Please check here for details.

The appropriate procedures for payment of fees, collection of fees, withdrawals and calculation of refunds are included within the full Tuition Fee Policy document. 

The UK government postgraduate student loan is not normally available to those enrolling on a part-time Master’s degree course. 

Tuition fee amounts are subject to increase each academic year, please be aware of this when making your calculations and planning how much money you will require.

Funding Options

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