Continuing Education
One of the main ways in which AWSELVA achieves its Mission is by providing high quality continuing education through our Journal and Conferences.
Our members also have involvement with a wide range of continuing education activities, some of which are listed below:
Vets
RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP)
The RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice (CertAVP) allows candidates to include some modules of their choice to reflect their special interests. It is possible to include modules in both the theory and practice of Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law within this framework.
RCVS Diploma in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law
The RCVS Diploma in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law is currently accepting enrolments for veterinary surgeons with appropriate certificate level post-graduate qualifications. This diploma is intended for veterinary surgeons specialising in this field and candidates must complete at least 200 days of formal training as well as writing a dissertation, case reports and taking written and practical exams.
European sub-speciality of Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law (AWSEL)
The newly formed European sub-speciality of Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law (AWSEL), part of the College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine (ECAWBM), will develop a diploma residency programme for European veterinary surgeons wishing to specialise in this field. It is expected that the first courses will be available for enrolment from 2012 and that these will eventually replace the RCVS Diploma. More information is available here.
In the first five years, the AWSEL college will accept 'de facto' diplomats; diplomats who are not required to undertake a residency programme or submit to examination in order to become a diplomat. To be eligible for application, certain criteria must be met, such as at least seven years of professional experience in the speciality and spending at least 60% of a full-time working week in animal welfare science, ethics and law. The responsibility for approval of de facto applications will be done by the credentials committee of the parent college ECAWBM. More information on 'de facto' recognition and an application form are available here.
Vets and others:
MSc in Applied Animal Behaviour and Animal Welfare, University of Edinburgh, UK
This course has an international reputation for its teaching on current issues in the area of animal behaviour and welfare. First run in October 1990, the course welcomes around 25 students each year from different countries around the world.
MSc in Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling, University of Southampton, UK
Animal Behaviour Counselling covers various aspects of ethology, biology, veterinary science and psychology. Please note, this MSc programme at the University of Southampton will be presented for the last time in 2012. From 2011, candidates will also be able to choose from two MSc programmes in Human-Animal Interactions. See the University of Southampton website for more information.