| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
Program Overview
The RVC's Professional Doctorate (DVet) is a part-time, distance learning program designed for veterinary professionals to advance their careers. It combines taught modules, research methods training, and a research thesis focused on workplace issues. The program emphasizes professional development and aims to enhance expertise within current roles rather than opening up new career opportunities.
Program Outline
Outline:
The RVC's Professional Doctorate provides an organization-focused approach, allowing professionals in the veterinary sector to advance their careers by acquiring research and advanced knowledge alongside professional skill refinement. It's offered part-time through distance learning (allowing for some face-to-face contact) with flexible completion times ranging from 4-8 years. The core elements include:
- Taught Component: Aims to broaden knowledge, train students in research methods and equip them with valuable professional skills.
- Modular Structure: Constitutes 540 credits split across five parts: 1. 90 credits (choice of CertAVP or RVC Level 7 Masters modules, Foundations of Professionalism, Methods of Enquiry 1 & 2) 2. 30 credits (Part III; 60 credits for research; Research Study; organization focused study (OFS); 300 credit research thesis
- Research methods training progresses from the basics to specialized quantitative & qualitative skills.
- Assessment , primarily through assignments/examinations and the final research thesis/OFS combination, requires completion of Methods of Enquiry to tackle research-specific components.
- Research thesis , the program's focal point, involves the investigation of a relevant workplace/organizational issue and culminates in its presentation as separate studies with an overarching theme.
- Professional Development is emphasized across modules and reflects on skills, professional identity and workplace/social dynamics.
Assessment:
- Combines in-course assignments/exams for taught modules with a substantial final component.
- Research Thesis: Assessed for originality ("new facts"/critical thinking), demonstration of understanding professional research and personal development.
- Organization-Focused Study: Needs to show clear understanding of research methods application within a professional context and contribute to individual and organizational growth.
Careers:
The DVet, targeting professional development for those employed within veterinary- related fields. Career progression and increased expertise within current roles is the main focus of this doctorate, rather than new career opportunities that might be the focus of different doctorate programs.
Other:
- Program currently accepting new applications (as of Nov. 2023).
- Offers opportunities for participation in research seminars, transferable skill workshops and access to relevant postgraduate student population activities.
- Entry requires veterinary degree, minimum 2 years work experience, workplace supervisor, potential prior learning credit consideration.
UK Tuition Fees: 2022/23: TBC EU and International Tuition Fees: 2022/23: £13,270
