Skip to content
Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin
  • +61 (07) 3244 1650
  • [email protected]
  • Delegate Login
  • Vets
    • Accelerated Emergency Program ENROL ANYTIME
    • Small Animal Medicine
    • Cardiology
    • Dermatology
    • Exotic Animal Practice
    • Neurology
    • Ophthalmology
    • Feline Practice
    • Computed Tomography
    • Emergency and Critical Care
    • Oncology
    • Small Animal Surgery
    • Ultrasound Workshops
      • Introduction to Abdominal Ultrasound
      • Next Steps in Ultrasound
      • Introduction to Echocardiography
  • Vet Nurse/Vet Tech
    • Elevate Emergency Nursing
    • Nursing Anaesthesia
    • Surgical Nursing
    • Medical Nursing
    • Transfusion Medicine
    • Emergency and Critical Care Nursing
    • Feline Nursing
    • Advanced Nursing Anaesthesia
    • Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Nursing
    • Advanced Surgical Nursing
  • Resources
    • Articles & News
    • Webinars
    • FAQs
    • Veterinary Practice Membership
  • About
    • Improve Veterinary Education
    • Your Team
    • International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS)
    • ESG
    • Testimonials
    • Booking Terms & Conditions
    • Venues
  • Contact Us
  • Vets
    • Accelerated Emergency Program ENROL ANYTIME
    • Small Animal Medicine
    • Cardiology
    • Dermatology
    • Exotic Animal Practice
    • Neurology
    • Ophthalmology
    • Feline Practice
    • Computed Tomography
    • Emergency and Critical Care
    • Oncology
    • Small Animal Surgery
    • Ultrasound Workshops
      • Introduction to Abdominal Ultrasound
      • Next Steps in Ultrasound
      • Introduction to Echocardiography
  • Vet Nurse/Vet Tech
    • Elevate Emergency Nursing
    • Nursing Anaesthesia
    • Surgical Nursing
    • Medical Nursing
    • Transfusion Medicine
    • Emergency and Critical Care Nursing
    • Feline Nursing
    • Advanced Nursing Anaesthesia
    • Advanced Emergency and Critical Care Nursing
    • Advanced Surgical Nursing
  • Resources
    • Articles & News
    • Webinars
    • FAQs
    • Veterinary Practice Membership
  • About
    • Improve Veterinary Education
    • Your Team
    • International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS)
    • ESG
    • Testimonials
    • Booking Terms & Conditions
    • Venues
  • Contact Us
  • Veterinarian

Small Animal Medicine

ISVPS General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert)
  • Modular Program, Online Learning
Overview
Modules
Pricing
FAQ
Enquire
Enrol Now

Small Animal Medicine

Take your knowledge and skills to the next level with our industry-leading small animal medicine veterinary CPD program.

Designed to elevate your expertise in diagnosing and managing internal medicine cases, our online program has empowered thousands of veterinary professionals worldwide to provide the best care to their patients.

Our comprehensive veterinary medicine program covers key topics such as clinical pathology, diagnostic imaging, respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, gastroenterology, emergency medicine, and more. Expanding your expertise in these areas will enhance your knowledge base and foster a clear, logical approach to addressing clinical problems.

Our Small Animal Medicine program will help you to build expertise in diagnosing and managing internal medicine cases, strengthen your problem-solving skills, and improve your efficiency through accurate and timely diagnoses. You’ll also boost your confidence in handling small animal medical cases, refine your interpretation skills, and enhance the overall value of your services, leading to better outcomes for your patients and your clinic.

Our newly refreshed program enhances your learning experience.

With upgraded videos, an AI guide for personal assistance, interactive and engaging module content, and a discussion forum with your peers and specialist tutor, this is the ultimate online learning experience.

Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, advance your career, or simply stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in veterinary medicine, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

*Gain a Postgraduate Qualification

This program is accredited with the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) meaning you can work towards the following globally-recognised qualifications while you study. Please note that ISVPS registration and examination fees are not included in the course fees.

General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert) 

By attending the full online structured program and following successful assessment, including an exam, you can gain a General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert) awarded by the ISVPS.

Postgraduate Certificate (PgC) 

A route to a PgC is available through our partnership with Harper Adams University (HAU). The PgC is a recognised higher education qualification demonstrating that you have achieved the required standard within a designated subject. Additional assessments will be necessary to apply for this route.

For all enquiries about ISVPS requirements, contact [email protected].

Buy One Year Only

Did you know you can purchase one year at a time? Click the pricing tab to learn more or enrol now.

SIGN ME UP

Course Highlights

  • 20 Varied Modules covering key clinical internal medicine topics
  • Specialist Support from your module tutor (a registered specialist in their field)
  • Discussion Forum: Ask questions and discuss cases with your specialist tutor and peers from around the world
  • Dedicated Program Coordinator: To help you every step of the way
  • 100% Online: Interactive and engaging modules include presentations, written notes, case studies, interactive quizzes and exercises test your knowledge
  • Regular Assessments: To track your progress and reflect on your learning
  • ISVPS Accredited: Work towards a globally-recognised postgraduate qualification (GPCert in Small Animal Medicine)
  • RACE Accredited: 240 CPD points
Small Animal Medicine
  • June 2025 - May 2027
  • Format: 20 Online Modules
  • GPCert in Small Animal Medicine*
  • RACE Accredited: 240 CPD Points
  • ISVPS Accredited Training
  • Online
  • Price:
    Two Year Program: AU$15,250
    One Year Program $7,750
  • An initial AU$4,000 deposit will secure your place in this program!
Enrol Now
Try the program for FREE!

Register to receive a free taster module and stay up to date with program updates.

"*" indicates required fields

Course updates
This field is hidden when viewing the form
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Learning Modules

Year 1: June 25 - May 26

Clinical Pathology

Date: June 2025

Module Tutor:

Bruce Parry BVSc PhD Diplomate ACVP Fellow AVA

Module Developer:

Nick Bexfield BVetMed PhD DSAM DipECVIM-CA FSBoil MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Understand the rationale behind selection of appropriate tests for your patients
  • Consider the different sampling techniques and sample processing and identify factors that may affect them
  • Become familiar with the clinical pathology of hepatobiliary and renal disease
  • Structure your approach to anaemia to differentiate between non-regenerative and regenerative types before determining possible underlying causes
  • Transform your understanding of haemostasis to enable you to determine when, why and how it goes wrong
  • Use your knowledge to interpret laboratory data from clinical patients to help you prioritise further investigations

Immunology

Date: July 2025

Module Tutor:

Lydia Hambrook BVSc(Hons) FANZCVS Registered Specialist (Small Animal Medicine)

Module Developer:

Jame Swann MA VetMB MVetMed DipACVM DipECVIM MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Learn the basis of immune function and the immune response to better understand the pathophysiology of immune-mediated disease
  • Develop your diagnostic approach to common immune-mediated diseases in small animals
  • Transform your understanding of the basis of therapy for immune-mediated diseases
  • Discuss the use of common immunosuppressive therapies

Cytology

Date: August 2025

Module Tutor:

Bruce Parry BVSc PhD Diplomate ACVP Fellow AVA

Module Developer:

Marta Costa DVM MSc FRCPath DipECVCP MRCVS EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Clinical Pathology

Key learning objectives:

  • Understand the principles and practical aspects of cytological sample collection, storage and preparation
  • Perfect your ability to describe the principles of routine cytological examination and how this informs a cytological diagnosis
  • Develop your haematological skills by becoming adept at interpreting both normal and abnormal haemograms, identifying reticulocytes and discovering platelet and white cell abnormalities
  • Transform your understanding of the different cytological characteristics of effusions, aspirates and lavage samples
  • Familiarise yourself with some of the conditions most commonly diagnosed by cytology

Diagnostic Imaging

Date: September 2025

Module Tutor:

Dr Randi Drees Dr.med.vet PhD DipACVR (Radiation, Radiology Oncology) DipECVDI add RadOncol PGCertAP MRCVS

Module developer: 

Andrew Holdsworth BSc BVSc (Hons) DipECVDI, MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Review the principles of radiography, radiology and the significance of radiation protection
  • Appreciate the use of contrast radiography in a variety of situations and using a variety of techniques
  • Understand the principles of ultrasound imaging
  • Familiarise yourself with the basic principles of advanced imaging
  • Compare and contrast CT and MRI as diagnostic tools

Gastroenterology I

Date: October 2025

Module Tutor: 

Mellora Sharman BVSc MVM PGradCert PhD FANZCVS DECVIM-CA MRCVS
European Specialist in Small Animal Medicine

Module Developer:

Scott Kilpatrick BSc (Hons) MSc BVM&S DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Develop your understanding of deglutition and dysphagia
  • Familiarise yourself with the pathophysiology of:
    • Regurgitation
    • Acute and chronic vomiting
    • Diarrhoea
  • Enhance your diagnostic approach to gastrointestinal abnormalities
  • Describe the principles and basic use of endoscopy in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal disease and when it is indicated

Gastroenterology II

Date: November 2025

Module Tutor: 

Mellora Sharman BVSc MVM PGradCert PhD FANZCVS DECVIM-CA MRCVS
European Specialist in Small Animal Medicine

Module Developer:

Scott Kilpatrick BSc (Hons) MSc BVM&S DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Improve your understanding of the pathophysiology of hepatic and hepatobiliary disease
  • Devise a systematic diagnostic approach to the jaundiced patient
  • Perfect your investigative approach to suspected hepatobiliary disease
  • Understand the pathophysiology of exocrine pancreatic disease
  • Describe the investigative approach to acute and chronic exocrine pancreatic diseases
  • Discuss the therapeutic options in hepatobiliary and pancreatic di

Respiratory Disease

Date: February 2026

Module Tutor:

Philip Brain BVSc FACVSC (Small Animal Medicine) FAVA

Module developer: 

Susana Silva CertSAM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Improve your understanding of the importance of a detailed and thorough physical examination
  • Integrate a dyspnoea algorithm into your investigations of respiratory disease
  • Develop an understanding of the importance of diagnostic aids in the investigation of respiratory disease: radiography, endoscopy, ultrasonography and cytology
  • Consolidate your knowledge of upper and lower airway disease, parenchymal and pleural space disease
  • Familiarise yourself with the principles of primary and ancillary respiratory therapeutic

Endocrinology I

Date: March 2026

Module Tutor:

Ann Thompson BVSc MANZCVS MSc GCHEd DACVIM

Module developer: 

Nick Bexfield BVetMed PhD DSAM DipECVIM-CA FSBiol MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Get to grips with the underlying principles of endocrine anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology
  • Become familiar with the clinical signs and diagnostic approaches in cats and dogs with endocrine disorders such as:
    • Hypo- and hyperadrenocorticism – common and uncommon presentations
    • Hypo- and hyperthyroidism
    • Primary and Secondary hyperparathyroidism
  • Understand the basis of medical and (where appropriate) surgical management for diseases affecting the adrenal, thyroid and parathyroid glands

Endocrinology II

Date: April 2026

Module Tutor:

Ann Thompson BVSc MANZCVS MSc GCHEd DACVIM

Module developer:

Nick Bexfield BVetMed PhD DSAM DipECVIM-CA FSBiol MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical signs associated with endocrine pancreatic disease including insulinoma
  • Describe the investigation and management of diabetes mellitus and diabetic ketoacidosis in the dog and cat
  • Get to grips with understanding the causes of failure to control diabetes and the approach to the unstable diabetic patient
  • Understand the pathophysiology of pituitary endocrine diseases
  • Become familiar with the clinical signs, investigation and management of pituitary endocrine disease in the dog and cat

Medical Oncology

Date: May 2026

Module Tutor:

Veronika Langova MVDR MACVSC (Medicine) FANZCVS (Oncology)

Module Developer:

Ana Lara DVVM MSc PhD PgCert MedEd FHEA DipACVIM ECVIM-CA (Oncology)

Key learning objectives:

  • Be able to understand the principles of tumour biology and staging
  • Formulate a general investigative approach to the cancer patient
  • Develop your understanding of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgical oncology
  • Familiarise yourself with the therapeutic management of common canine and feline neoplasms
  • Enable yourself to recognise and manage common oncologic emergencies

Year 2: June 26 - May 27

Cardiovascular I

Date: June 2026

Module Developer & Tutor:

Kieran Borgeat BSc BVSc MVetMed CertVC FHEA MRCVS DipACVIM DipECVIM-CA (Cardiology)

Key learning objectives:

  • Extend your understanding of the principles and importance of a physical examination in patients with suspected cardiac disease
  • Familiarise yourself with the principles of electrocardiography
  • Integrate your understanding of the approach to electrocardiographic interpretation to help you identify common arrhythmias
  • Improve your evaluation of thoracic radiographs in reference to cardiac patients
  • Understand the basic principles of echocardiography and its role in diagnosis of cardiac disease

Cardiovascular II

Date: July 2026

Module Developer & Tutor:

Kieran Borgeat BSc BVSc MVetMed CertVC FHEA MRCVS DipACVIM DipECVIM-CA (Cardiology)

Key learning objectives:

  • Recognise and understand the events involved in the pathophysiology of cardiac failure
  • Define systolic and diastolic failure
  • Appreciate the species differences in prevalence of congenital and acquired cardiac diseases
  • Describe the major congenital cardiac diseases in dogs and cats
  • Transform your understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of acquired valvular, myocardial and pericardial diseases
  • Familiarise yourself with the therapeutic options and their applications in patients with cardiac disease
  • Learn how to manage emergency cardiac patients for improved outcomes

Emergency Medicine & Critical Care

Date: August 2026

Module Tutor:

Claire Sharp BSc BVMS MS DACVECC

Module Developer:

Simon Tappin MA VetMB GPCert (SAP) CertSAM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Familiarise yourself with a thorough and systematic approach to the assessment of the critically ill patient’s major body systems
  • Enhance your understanding of the minimum database and its interpretation
  • Implement your assessment of your patients when considering their fluid, electrolyte and transfusion requirements
  • Understand the principles and practical aspects of critical patient monitoring
  • Recognise imminent cardiopulmonary arrest more promptly
  • Learn how to select and apply both basic and advanced life support
  • Learn the best approach to the acute management of the dyspnoeic patient

Medical Neurology

Date: September 2026

Module Tutor:

Dr Stacey Brady BVSc (Hons I) MSc (AABAW) DipECVN

Module Developer:

Raquel Trevail DVM DipECVM MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Revise your understanding of the principles of functional neuroanatomy
  • Become adept at a thorough and systematic neurologic examination to help you localise lesions
  • List and understand further diagnostic techniques available to investigate neurologic disease
  • Consider the investigation and management of common neurologic syndromes
  • Understand the steps involved in the investigation into the aetiology of seizures in dogs and cats
  • Improve your ability to manage seizures in an emergency and longer term

Canine Infectious Diseases

Date: October 2026

Module Tutor:

Mellora Sharman BVSc MVM PGradCert PhD FANZCVS DECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS

Module Developer:

Simon Tappin MA VetMB GPCert(SAP) CertSAM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Compile a list of the major infectious diseases in dogs
  • Describe the diagnosis and management of common canine infectious diseases
  • Familiarise yourself with the clinical signs of significant imported diseases occurring in dogs
  • Understand the principles of vaccination and vaccination regimes
  • Understand the steps involved in the Pet Travel Scheme
  • List notifiable diseases in dogs

Feline Infectious Diseases

Date: November 2026

Module Tutor:

James Foster BSc BVMS PhD FANZCVS

Module Developer:

Kerry Simpson BVM&S PhD FACVSc DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Approach the pathophysiology, diagnosis and, where appropriate, treatment and management of common viral diseases in cats including FeLV, FIV and FIP and respiratory infections
  • Diagnose and treat Haemoplasma infections
  • Explain the diseases of hunting cats including toxoplasmosis, pox virus, mycobacterial disease and salmonellosis
  • Approach enteric infections of the cat including protozoal disease (Trichomonas foetus, Cryptosporidium, Giardia and Isospora) and bacterial/viral disease
  • Understand fungal mycoses
  • Control infectious and zoonotic disease in the home, clinic, shelters and cattery situations

Urology I

Date: February 2027

Module Tutor:

Thurid Johnstone DVM PhD DECVIM-CA

Module Developer:

James Swann MA VetMB MVetMed DipACVIM DipECVIM MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Understand the diagnostic techniques available to investigate urinary disease
  • Delve into the detail of the pathophysiology of acute and chronic renal failure, glomerular disease and proteinuria
  • Develop your investigative approach into renal disease
  • Improve your therapeutic management of such cases

Urology II

Date: March 2027

Module Tutor:

Thurid Johnstone DVM PhD DECVIM-CA

Module Developer:

Joana Agguiar MVM MVetMed DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe and understand the factors involved in the development of crystalluria and urolithiasis in cats and dogs
  • Understand the principles of management of lower urinary tract disease in cats and dogs
  • Explore the often complicated management of FLUTD and urethral obstruction
  • Examine the possible causes of urinary incontinence, their diagnosis and management
  • Classify canine prostatic diseases and understand their pathogenesis, diagnosis and medical management

Dermatology

Date: April 2027

Module Tutor:

John Hutt BVSc (Hons) CertVD MANZCVS DACVD Specialist Dermatology

Module Developer

Rosario Cerundolo DVM CertVD DipECVD MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Develop a problem-solving approach to skin diseases
  • Describe the steps involved in dermatologic examination in cats and dogs
  • List and understand the techniques used for the laboratory investigation of skin disease and when they should be used
  • Recommend a rational problem-solving approach to the investigation and treatment of :
    • Alopecia
    • Pruritus
  • Become familiar with the common presentations of bacterial, parasitic and fungal skin disease
  • Identify common dermatologic manifestations of systemic disease and their pathogenesis

Ophthalmology

Date: May 2027

Module Tutor:

Edith Hampson BVSc PhD FANZCVS

Module Developer:

Sally Turner VetMB DVOphthal MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Review common ophthalmic examination techniques:
    • Basic neuro-ophthalmological examination
    • Ophthalmoscopy: distant direct; close direct & indirect
    • Correct use of Fluorescein for corneal evaluation
    • Tonometry and gonioscopy
  • Get to grips with current ocular therapeutics: what do you need to have on your pharmacy shelf?
  • Familiarise yourself with the medical management of common ocular conditions
  • Identify the ocular manifestations of systemic diseases
  • Be able to recognise common ocular conditions that require surgery

*Please note: Module order may be subject to change

Delegate Feedback

Dr Leonara Vargas

The course was everything I was hoping for and more. It was invaluable to be able to ask questions to specialists. Personally, my confidence increased by knowing that I am recommending gold standard treatments that are up to date. Better patient outcomes now make my shifts more enjoyable. This has benefited not only myself and my patients, but also our whole hospital.

Cardiovascular Module

“Thank you for putting together a comprehensive module that highlights and discusses important fundamental knowledge that is applied regularly in clinical practice. It helps to improve quality of patient assessment and understanding of how to approach novel cases with unusual presentation”

Urology Module

“I found this module to be one of my favourites yet! The course provided useful handouts and was really applicable to general practice. Kidney disease is so common and it was a great refresher on how to diagnose and manage kidney disease”

Immunology Module

“I really appreciated the tutors thoughtful and comprehensive responses to all our questions. Clearly a lot of time was spent constructing replies and providing relevant references which really solidified my learning and understanding of immunology”

Course Speakers

Dr Claire Sharp
Dr Claire Sharp
BSc BVMS MS DACVECC
Dr Claire Sharp

Dr Claire Sharp

BSc BVMS MS DACVECC
Claire is an Associate Professor in Emergency and Critical Care in the School of Veterinary Medicine at Murdoch University and a Diplomate of the American College of Vet. Emergency & Critical Care. Claire enjoys working in the busy clinical ECC service at The Animal Hospital at Murdoch University, while teaching both undergrads and postgrads and pursuing clinical research. Claire is a much sought after expert in the ECC field and continuing education sector, and is actively involved in the Australian and international veterinary ECC communities.
Dr Mellora Sharman
Dr Mellora Sharman
BVSc MVM PGradCert PhD FANZCVS DECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS
Dr Mellora Sharman

Dr Mellora Sharman

BVSc MVM PGradCert PhD FANZCVS DECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS
Mellora graduated from the University of Queensland, Australia in 2003, spending time in small animal general practice before gaining further experience through clinical positions at the University of Sydney and the University of Queensland. She completed a clinical residency in Small Animal Internal Medicine at Murdoch University in Perth, becoming a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine in 2012. Mellora moved to the UK in 2014, working first as maternity leave cover at the University of Glasgow for six months before joining the Animal Health Trust as a Senior Clinician in Small Animal Internal Medicine for five years, where she was involved with clinical research and resident training until the AHTs closure in 2020. She has since worked within the VetCT Team providing Teleconsulting services to general practice clients around the globe, and continues to regularly work clinical locums throughout the UK. As well as a keen interest in clinical research, Mellora continues to enjoy both undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, and further consolidated the teaching experience obtained through working within academic practice over many years with a Postgraduate Certificate in Veterinary Education from the RVC. Mellora has a research Masters in Veterinary Medicine from Murdoch University for work on sinonasal aspergillosis, and a PhD from the University of Melbourne, for investigation of applications of the novel gastrointestinal endoscopic technique, confocal endomicroscopy. Mellora enjoys all aspects of internal medicine, but particularly enjoys infectious disease and gastroenterology.
Dr John Hutt
Dr John H C Hutt
BVSc (Hons) BA (Hons) MA (CW) CertVD MANZCVS DipACVD
Dr John Hutt

Dr John H C Hutt

BVSc (Hons) BA (Hons) MA (CW) CertVD MANZCVS DipACVD
John graduated from the University of Queensland in 1988. He worked in general practice in Brisbane for 18 months before travelling to the UK in 1990, where he worked in small animal practice for the next 11 years. He was a clinical assistant in dermatology at the Animal Health Trust from 1998 to 2001. In 2001 John set up North Kent Referrals, a multi-disciplinary referral practice in the south of England, and he owned and ran the practice until its sale in 2012. John is a registered specialist in Veterinary Dermatology. He holds the RCVS Certificate in Veterinary Dermatology, is a member of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists (MANZCVS) by examination in small animal medicine, and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. John is a past President of the British Veterinary Dermatology Study Group. He is Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland, where he provides the dermatology referral service. Following his return to Brisbane in 2013, John joined the team at Dermatology for Animals. His clinical interests include the management of allergic skin disease in dogs, immune mediated skin disorders, and all aspects of feline and equine dermatology. John has regularly presented on the subject of veterinary dermatology to veterinary surgeons and nurses all over the world. Outside of work, John’s major interest is in English Literature and Creative Writing. He completed a Bachelor of Arts at the Open University in 2006, followed by an Honours year in Creative Writing in 2009. He completed a Master of Arts in Creative Writing in 2018.
Dr Edith Hampson
Dr Edith Hampson
BVSc PhD FANZCVS
Dr Edith Hampson

Dr Edith Hampson

BVSc PhD FANZCVS
Edith Hampson is a specialist veterinary ophthalmologist with more than 20 years experience working in small animal and equine veterinary practice and in research centres. Edith is passionate about eyes and loves teaching ophthalmology. Edith is an Adjunct Associate Professor at The School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, where she continues to lecture undergraduate veterinary science and veterinary technical students. Edith also provides continuing education in ophthalmology to general practitioners and encourages young veterinarians to reach their potential in learning and advancement.
Dr Bruce Parry
Professor Bruce Parry
BVSc PhD Diplomate ACVP Fellow AVA
Dr Bruce Parry

Professor Bruce Parry

BVSc PhD Diplomate ACVP Fellow AVA
Bruce is Professor emeritus at the University of Melbourne. He taught clinical pathology at the Melbourne Veterinary School for 3 decades, before 'pre-retirement' in 2013. His areas of interest include haematology, cytology, coagulation and transfusion medicine. He has a practical approach to the application of laboratory tests in the clinical setting and currently provides in-house tutorials for vets and nurses.
Dr Lydia Hambrook
Dr Lydia Hambrook
BVSC (Hons) FANZCVS (Small Animal Medicine)
Dr Lydia Hambrook

Dr Lydia Hambrook

BVSC (Hons) FANZCVS (Small Animal Medicine)
Lydia graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2002. After gaining experience in mixed, equine and small animal practice she commenced a residency in Small Animal Medicine at the Melbourne Veterinary Specialist Centre in 2009. Lydia passed her ANZCVS fellowship exams and became a registered specialist in Small Animal Medicine in 2012. Since then, she has worked in a Melbourne-based private referral practice. She also worked at the University of Melbourne as a Lecturer and Clinician between 2016-2020. Lydia has extensive experience examining for the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and she has been an active member of the Board of Examiners since 2019. Lydia believes that great communication skills coupled with sound logic and clinical reasoning are essential components of the diagnostic process. She thoroughly enjoys all facets of Small Animal Medicine but Lydia is particularly interested in cardiology, endocrinology, hepatobiliary disease, immunology, oncology and complex multi-disease management.
Dr Philip Brain
Dr Philip Brain
BVSc FACVSc (Small Animal Medicine) FAVA
Dr Philip Brain

Dr Philip Brain

BVSc FACVSc (Small Animal Medicine) FAVA
Philip H Brain graduated from the University of Sydney in 1985 and after 13 years in general practice, completed a residency program in small animal medicine at the Veterinary Specialist Centre, North Ryde, NSW and gained his Fellowship in Small Animal Medicine from the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in 2007. Previously Phil has been an examiner for the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in small animal and canine medicine and continues to be a mentor and supervisor for candidates. Phil served on ASAVA executive for 19 years including a Presidential term, two terms as Honorary Secretary and ASAVA scientific convener for 10 years. He was recognized with an AVA Meritorious Service Award in 1999, the ASAVA Distinguished Service Award in 2005 and a special ASAVA outstanding service award in 2010. He became the first veterinarian to receive a Chartered Membership (CMAVA) of the AVA in 2004. Phil was scientific convener for FASAVA Congress held in Beijing in 2014 and for the 2017 congress held on the Gold Coast. He was recognized with a service to veterinary nursing award in 1997 and was the first veterinarian to be awarded honorary membership of the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia in 2003. He was awarded a fellowship from the AVA in 2007 in recognition of his service to the profession. In 2016, he received the ASAVA’s Small Animal Practitioner of the Year, a national award. In 2017, he received the Federation of Asian Small Animal Veterinary Associations- Hills Small Animal Practitioner of the Year, an international award honouring veterinarians in the Asian Pacific region and was the first Australian to receive this award. In 2024, he received a NSW Vet Practitioners Board Centenary Medal. Phil is a registered specialist in small animal medicine and is currently practicing at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital (SASH) in North Ryde, Sydney and clinical interests include cardiology, endoscopy and interventional techniques. He also owns a small CE business (Brainwaves http://pbrain5.wixsite.com/website) offering speaking, writing, conference-organising and consultancy work. He has been proud to have been speaking for Improve since 2014.
Dr Ann Thompson
Dr Ann Thompson
BVSc MANZCVS MSc GCHEd DACVIM
Dr Ann Thompson

Dr Ann Thompson

BVSc MANZCVS MSc GCHEd DACVIM
Ann graduated from the University of Queensland in 1997. After graduation she worked in general practice in Melbourne and the UK before returning to the University of Queensland Veterinary Teaching Hospital. While at UQ she obtained her membership in small animal internal medicine. Ann then briefly worked at Veterinary Specialist Services in 2003 before going to the United States to pursue a residency in small animal internal medicine at Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Ann completed her Masters in veterinary medicine and passed her internal medicine exams at the end of her training program in 2006. She was awarded her Diplomate in Small Animal Internal Medicine by the American College of Veterinary Medicine in March 2007. During her residency, Ann was awarded the Katie McAllister Compassion Award for compassionate care of her patients. Ann returned to Australia in July 2006 to start working with the internal medicine team at Veterinary Specialist Services (Brisbane) where she spent almost 7 years treating many varied and interesting cases. Ann has a love of teaching and in 2013 she took on the role of starting up the small animal medicine referral service at UQ Veterinary Medical Centre Gatton.While at UQ Ann completed a teaching qualification (graduate certificate in higher education) and taught both veterinary technology and veterinary students in lectures and the clinic. Ann re-joined VSS in 2017 to take on the role of mentoring the VSS Residency Program. This program has strong links to UQ and is the perfect opportunity for Ann to shine. Ann's current areas of interest are; endocrinology, urinary tract disease, non-invasive diagnostics and veterinary education.
Dr Veronika Langova
Dr Veronika Langova
MVDR MACVSC (Medicine) FANZCVS (Oncology)
Dr Veronika Langova

Dr Veronika Langova

MVDR MACVSC (Medicine) FANZCVS (Oncology)
Dr Veronika Langova graduated in Brno, Czech Republic in 1992. She was admitted to the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists as a Member in Small Animal Medicine in 2000. In 2005, she attained Fellowship in Small Animal Oncology after completing her residency at Animal Cancer Care in Brisbane. During 2006-2007, she joined the team of oncologists at the Colorado State University as an Associate Professor. She then spent 12 months working at the Queensland Veterinary Specialists and Veterinary Specialist Services in Brisbane, then the Veterinary Specialist Centre in Sydney. Dr Veronika Langova is currently working as head of oncology at SASH Sydney for the past 14 years. Veronika is a member of Veterinary Cancer society, the Postgraduate Foundation, the Australian Veterinary Association and European Society of Veterinary Oncology ESVONC. She is interested in cancer research and has devoted time to Engeneic Pty Ltd as a clinical trial coordinator, researching on multi-drug resistance and targeted chemotherapy delivery. In her spare time, Veronika enjoys hiking, mountain biking, skiing, swimming and windsurfing.
Dr Thurid Johnstone
Dr Thurid Johnstone
DVM PhD DECVIM-CA
Dr Thurid Johnstone

Dr Thurid Johnstone

DVM PhD DECVIM-CA
Dr Thurid Johnstone graduated in Veterinary Science from Leipzig University, Germany. She completed a PhD with focus on canine and feline urinary tract infections at Massey University in New Zealand and specialist training in small animal internal medicine in Auckland, NZ and Dublin, Ireland. She became a board-certified specialist (DECVIM-CA) in 2010. Thurid worked in Ireland, Sweden and at Melbourne University (Australia) before starting her current position at the Animal Referral Hospital in Essendon Fields (Melbourne, Australia). Her research interests are in small animal endocrinology, urology, uromicrobiology and bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Thurid strives to deliver continuing education that is mind-stimulating, up-to-date and reflective of her passion to provide the best possible care to dogs and cats.
James Foster
Dr James Foster
BSc BVMS PhD FANZCVS
James Foster

Dr James Foster

BSc BVMS PhD FANZCVS

After graduating from Murdoch University in 1990, James worked in general practice followed by a residency in Feline medicine and a PhD investigating feline thyroid disease, both at the University of Edinburgh.Upon returning to Australia, James acquired his specialist credentials in Feline Medicine in 2000 through the ANZCVS.James' specialty by examination is in feline medicine, however he is formally trained in both canine and feline medicine.James has spent the majority of his career in private referral practice working with both species.James has a specific interest in endocrinology, respiratory disease, cardiology, liver disease, nutrition, feline pancreatic disease, managing co-morbidities in geriatric animals and peculiarity of feline behaviour and the species-specific conditions they acquire.

Dr Stacey Brady
Dr Stacey Brady
BVSc (Hons I) MSc (AABAW) DipECVN
Dr Stacey Brady

Dr Stacey Brady

BVSc (Hons I) MSc (AABAW) DipECVN
Dr Stacey completed her veterinary degree at the University of Sydney in 2011. She has worked in both small animal general practice and specialist practice, and has a Masters in Animal Welfare and Behaviour from the University of Edinburgh. Since finishing her residency training in neurology & neurosurgery (University of Melbourne) and gaining specialist qualification as a diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Neurology (DipECVN), Stacey has practiced as a specialist neurologist in both the UK (University of Cambridge) and in Australia. She currently works as a specialist in veterinary neurology at SASH in Sydney where she treats a variety of medical and surgical conditions. Outside of work, Stacey enjoys walking and spending time with her dog, Larry.
Dr Randi Drees
Dr Randi Drees
Dr.med.vet PhD DipACVR (Radiology, Radiation Oncology) DipECVDI add RadOncol PGCertAP MRCVS
Dr Randi Drees

Dr Randi Drees

Dr.med.vet PhD DipACVR (Radiology, Radiation Oncology) DipECVDI add RadOncol PGCertAP MRCVS
Dr Randi Drees graduated from the Freie Universität Berlin, Germany in 2001. Randi spent time in private practice before pursuing her Diagnostic Imaging residency at the University of Wiconsin-Madison, USA. She became board certified with the European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging and American College of Veterinary Radiology in 2008. Randi then pursued an alternative training program in Veterinary Radiation Oncology at the University of Wiconsin-Madison, USA and became board certified with the American College of Veterinary Radiology (Radiation Oncology) in 2012. She held a clinical assitant professorship and was section head of the diagnostic imaging section at the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Wiconsin-Madison, USA before relocating to the RVC in London where she is leading the small animal diagnostic imaging section. She is a member at large of the board of the ECVDI and member of the radiation oncology education and credentials committee establishing an add-on Training program in Radiation Oncology for Diplomates of the ECVDI and ECVIM colleges.

Payment Options

Full Payment
Deposit Only
Payment Plan - VetEdPay
Payment Plan Options
Booking Terms & Conditions
Full Payment

Full Upfront Payment (2 year program): AU $15,250 inc GST

Full Upfront Payment (1 year program): AU$7,750 inc GST*

ISVPS registration & examination fees are not included in this price. All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST.

*Please note that you MUST complete two consecutive years of the program to be eligible for the GPCert or PgC qualification.

 

 

Deposit Only

AU $4,000 initial deposit will secure your place. The full balance of fees must be paid prior to the program start date (no program access will be granted until full payment is received).

All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST.

ISVPS registration & examination fees are not included in this price.

Payment Plan - VetEdPay
Payment Plan Options
Booking Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Please find the terms and conditions here.

Enrol Now

FAQ

What are the criteria for enrolment in this program?

You must be a graduated Veterinary Surgeon with a minimum of 2 years clinical experience. You should be working with a small animal medicine caseload if you intend the sit the General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert) at the end of program completion. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the program.

The program is a big investment in finances and resources. Are there payment plans or HECS debt relief?

As a private education provider, Improve Veterinary Education is not part of the national HECs scheme. Payment plans are done on a case-by-case basis and additional fees are incurred. A minimum of 50% deposit of the program fees are required, before gaining access to program materials. If there are any defaults on payments, program access is removed. Please refer to our full T&Cs here.

I want to join the program but can’t get the funds together by the start date in June. Can I still join the SAM Program later?

Yes – there are additional entry points to the SAM program, so you don’t have to wait until the following years program start. If you enter the program late, there is no need to catchup on the prior modules that have already been delivered for that year. You will gain a full two-year of program access, from the time you enrol. This means you will have the full program experience, including specialist support and content updates for each module.

When is the learning content available for each module?

There are 20 learning modules delivered over 24 months (no new modules released December or January each year). All content is released at the start of each new module month. Delegates can work through this content at their own pace. The specialist tutor for each module is only available for support during their module month (so will not be available to answer questions if the module is finished).

What additional learning resources are available?

• Interactive online lessons on a Learning Management Platform – tracking your progress and awarding badges on completion
• Boarded Specialist as a module tutor to answer your questions on the discussion board
• Comprehensive online notes to support each lesson
• Discussion board/forum to post questions, comments and engage with your colleagues in the program
• MyImprove Candidate area on the Learning Platform that is kept up to date on program requirements and resources and FAQs
• Reading list & a range of additional resources and reference material
• Dedicated Program Manager & Technical support

How many hours per week will I need to spend on study for SAM Online Learning?

You will spend on average 3-5 hours per week on reading and working through the interactive materials on the platform. You may spend significantly more time if you are engaging with the specialist tutor and your colleagues on the discussion forum and posting and answering questions, reviewing all the resources and doing independent reading.

Do I have to complete each Module within the month, or can I take longer?

After the module month is over, you have ongoing access to all SAM Online Learning interactive materials. Your specialist tutor is only available for the module month they are involved in, so are not available for answering questions after their module has finished. You will have full access to the discussion forum and the ability to view archived questions/responses and can discuss module content/questions with other delegates.

What if I have questions on a makeup module in SAM Online Learning?

It is advised to make use of the specialist tutors for each month’s module by asking questions on the discussion board for that month. If you have questions on a makeup module that is complete, the discussion board is also open to colleagues engaging and answering. The aim of the forum discussion boards is that colleagues in the program can help each other and add thoughts and ideas on makeup questions.

How long do I have to complete the whole program?

The Small Animal Medicine Program is delivered (with all online resources and elements) over 24-months. Once the full program has been delivered, you have an additional 12 months access to all program materials, for review, completion and revision. This means you have 36 months access to the online material, from time of program start.

What if I still need more time, after the full 3-years of access?

There is an opportunity to resubscribe to program materials for an additional year (with applicable fees), extending access to a maximum of 4 years from initial program start date. There is no further extension beyond this time frame.

What happens if I need to withdraw from the SAM Program completely?

If you withdraw completely from the SAM Program the most up to date T&Cs will be applied. Refunds are not part of the standard agreement.

What happens if I don’t like the program, or the learning experience is not for me?

It is advisable you work through the demo module so you are aware of how the online learning experience suits you before committing to the Small Animal Medicine Program. Being comfortable working autonomously in the resource material and then engaging on the discussion boards is critical to this learning experience. Whilst there may be several live webinars over the course of the program, your engagement is predominantly through the forum interactions with your specialists and peers.

What are the requirements of the General Practitioner Certificate in Small Animal Medicine (GPCertSAM)?

• The International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) have accredited the global Small Animal Medicine Program as appropriate training for the General Practitioner Certificate and Postgraduate Certificate.
• Completion of the full Small Animal Medicine Program and additional assessments, including a final online examination are also requirements of the ISVPS GPCert and PgCert Certificates.
• The most up-to-date information for the General Practitioner Certificates can be found on the ISVPS website
• Any further questions on the ISVPS certificate qualifications can be asked of the ISVPS Team at [email protected]

How do I pay the ISVPS registration fees for the GPCertSAM?

Registration for the General Practitioner Certificate is made directly with ISVPS, once you are underway in your Small Animal Medicine Program. Fees are payable at the time of registration and will be invoiced directly by ISVPS. Fees change each year and in 2024 are £1034.

What about the ANZCVS Memberships in Small Animal Medicine - will this program help me with that?

The Small Animal Medicine Programs covers the learning objectives of the ISVPS Syllabus for the GPCertSAM. The SAM program does provide a structured study program and a solid clinical and practical knowledge of the subject area. While not intended to fully cover the ANZCVS Membership requirements, undertaking the course will benefit those studying towards Membership. A number of program participants have successfully used this program for their Membership preparation.

I'm not based in Australia. Can I still join the program and obtain the GPCert. qualification?

Yes. Location of study does not affect/change this global program. We can accept delegates across Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific region.
All content is pre-loaded online so can be viewed at any time of day (i.e. time zone differences will not impact your access to content). However, you may need to allow extra time for tutor responses (as tutors will be based in Australia).
If you intend to sit the GPCertSAM qualification through ISVPS, their requirements are based around online assessments. Please contact ISVPS directly with any questions or for further information ([email protected]).

Is the Small Animal Medicine Program content specific to Australia and New Zealand?

The content for the Small Animal Medicine Program covers the global syllabus for the ISVPS Gen.Prac Certificate in Small Animal Medicine. This means there is material in the program that may be referable to UK/Europe and other regions. The Australian Small Animal Program, while covering all the cover global content is majority tutored by Australian Specialists who are able to localise content and answer questions for our region.

Do I need to attend the live webinars, if they are scheduled? What if I can’t make that time?

No, you don’t need to be available at the time of the webinar. Any live content is recorded and can be watched at any time. This gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, and to structure your learning around your busy work and life schedules.

Explore more courses

LEARN MORE

IN PARTNERSHIP​

Established as a company in 1998 by a group of dedicated veterinary surgeons. Improve Veterinary Education has now expanded across the globe with offices in the UK, Europe and around the world.

Our mission is to offer high quality training to veterinarians, vet nurses and vet technicians in Australia and New Zealand.

  • +61 (07) 3244 1650
  • [email protected]
Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin
Blue and white NZVA accreditation logo

Pay Securely

  • 2025 Improve International. All rights reserved
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
Manage your privacy
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Statistics

Marketing

Features
Always active

Always active
Manage options Manage services Manage {vendor_count} vendors Read more about these purposes
Manage options
{title} {title} {title}