Updated process for postgraduate certificate accreditation – what this means for you

Earlier this month, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) announced an updated process for reviewing and accrediting postgraduate certificates that lead to eligibility for Advanced Practitioner (AP) Status. 

This is a significant development for the profession. The initiative is designed to ensure that the Advanced Practitioner designation continues to represent a robust and meaningful recognition of advanced veterinary knowledge and skills. 

This review process will provide greater confidence and assurance for veterinary professionals, clients, and the wider public that AP Status reflects the highest standards of education. 

As part of this review, all providers of postgraduate certificates that would like their certificates to be eligible are re-applying through the new process. But what does this mean for you?

How Improve Veterinary Education is responding to the announcement

As the leading provider of veterinary postgraduate education, we fully welcome and support this development. At Improve Veterinary Education, we are in a strong position to meet and exceed the expectations of the new process. 

Here’s why: 

• Independent Quality Oversight - All of our programmes are validated by the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) and Harper Adams University (HAU).
• Rigorous Assessment Standards - We operate a robust examination and assessment process, ensuring that every qualification we deliver carries academic integrity and professional credibility. 

What this means for you 

If you are currently enrolled in one of our programmes, or considering enrolling soon, here’s what you can expect: 

• Eligibility Maintained – All of our programmes that were previously approved by the RCVS will remain eligible for AP applications during the 18-month “bedding-in” period announced by the RCVS.
• Proactive Re-Assessment – We have already submitted our programmes for reassessment under the new criteria and are confident they will continue to be endorsed.
• Future-Ready Programmes – Any new programmes in development and those due to be completed after the bedding-in period will be prioritised for submission, ensuring continued eligibility. 

Supporting You Through the Transition 

We understand that changes like these can create uncertainty. Please rest assured that we are actively engaging with the RCVS and working to keep all of our programmes aligned with the highest standards. 

In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns about your programme or AP eligibility, our team is here to support you, please click here to get in touch.  

Aidan McAlinden MVB, MSc, CertSAS, DipECVS, MRCVS
Academic and Content Director
Improve Veterinary Education