| 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
Royal Veterinary College (RVC)
Overview:
The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) is a renowned institution dedicated to veterinary science and education. It is a leading center for research, teaching, and clinical care, with a strong focus on improving animal and human health and welfare.
Services Offered:
The RVC offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Undergraduate and postgraduate programs:
These programs cover various fields like biological sciences, veterinary science, and veterinary nursing.Clinical Training Scholarships:
These scholarships provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience in clinical settings.Research opportunities:
The RVC is a hub for cutting-edge research in veterinary and biological sciences.Veterinary services:
The RVC provides veterinary services for referring vets and owners who seek the best care for their animals.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
Reputation:
The RVC is a globally recognized institution with a strong reputation for academic excellence and research.World-class facilities:
The RVC boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories, clinical hospitals, and research centers.Experienced faculty:
The RVC has a team of highly qualified and experienced faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields.Strong focus on animal welfare:
The RVC is committed to promoting animal welfare and ethical practices in veterinary medicine.Academic Programs:
The RVC offers a variety of academic programs, including:
Veterinary Medicine (BVSc):
This is a five-year program that prepares students for a career as a veterinarian.Veterinary Nursing (RVN):
This is a three-year program that prepares students for a career as a veterinary nurse.Biological Sciences:
The RVC offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in biological sciences, including zoology, genetics, and microbiology.Postgraduate programs:
The RVC offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including MSc degrees in Veterinary Epidemiology, Wild Animal Biology, Wild Animal Health, Veterinary Education, and One Health: ecosystems, humans and animals.Other:
Entry Requirements:
Educational Background:
- Applicants must possess a veterinary degree registrable with the RCVS (Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons).
- Applicants must have at least two years of work experience and be currently employed in the veterinary sector.
- Applicants are required to identify a workplace supervisor before applying.
Alternate Entry Route:
- Candidates possessing a European/American/RCVS Diploma or an RVC MVetMed degree may enter through the alternate entry route and transfer 90 credits at Level 7.
Other Considerations:
- Applicants with other degrees or prior equivalent experience may be considered at the discretion of the Programme Director.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Applicants whose native language is not English must take an IELTS-Academic test (from the British Council).
- Applicants need to achieve an overall score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each sub-test. (Clinical Training Scholarship positions require an overall score of 7.5 with a minimum of 7 in each sub-test).
