The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) is launching an exciting new qualification for vets. The Masters by Research will allow vets, particularly those in general practice, to conduct clinical research relating to their work.
The qualification will be validated by Nottingham Trent University. It is aimed at people who already have any accredited Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits at Level 7) relevant to some aspect of veterinary medicine or surgery.
The programme is based on a further 1,200 study hours. It could be flexibly achieved in two years of part-time study or up to five years, depending on the project type and an individual’s availability.
Frances Barr, as BSAVA Academic Director, has developed the most extensive CPD programme in the 60-year history of the organisation. She believes this latest milestone is very exciting. Frances said: “It’s a really significant addition to the BSAVA CPD programme and another step supporting lifelong learning, which we hope will have a very positive impact on the profession,” she said.
“Anyone who has an interest in clinical research – such as evaluating risk factors for a particular disease or factors that might influence an outcome – will find this an ideal way to satisfy their enquiring mind.
“If they have the motivation to keep developing a deeper understanding, we can provide encouragement and support for how to answer thoseclinical questions.”
The Masters programme starts with online study into the principles of clinical research, which students will then apply to their own research project.
Students will be allocated a ‘matched’ supervisor who will provide project advice and guidance, plus the BSAVA team will be on hand to ensure ongoing support and encouragement. The programme starts in January 2017 and applications open this October.
For more information, please contact the BSAVA Education team at masters@bsava.com.
