Small Animal Ophthalmology

ISVPS General Practitioner Certificate (GPCert)

Small Animal Ophthalmology

Take your career to the next level with a fresh approach to veterinary ophthalmology.

To provide the best ophthalmic care to your patients, you must be confident in performing a comprehensive ocular examination and accurately interpreting your clinical findings.

The Small Animal Ophthalmology Online Program is designed to give you a structured and comprehensive diagnostic approach to your patient, as well as up-to-date treatment and therapeutic options. The specialist authors have ensured the highly practical and image-based program is directly relevant to those applying their knowledge in the clinical setting. Gain the necessary skills and knowledge to feel confident with all your ophthalmology patients.

This 100% online CPD program is built around 14 modules. Each includes introductory and summary videos from the specialist author, interactive lessons, case studies, and additional resources. There is also an online forum to discuss cases with your colleagues and specialist tutors. Content covers embryology, anatomy and physiology of the eye, ocular pharmacology and therapeutics and the full spectrum of ocular diseases seen in domestic species.

Join world-leading veterinary CPD specialists for a program that will help you rediscover your passion and clinical enthusiasm.

Please note you will be joining a global program run out of the United Kingdom, giving you the opportunity to network with peers from around the world.

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:

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.

Please note that ISVPS registration and examination fees are not included in the course fees.
For all enquiries about ISVPS requirements, contact [email protected].

Course Highlights

  • 14 Varied Modules covering key clinical Ophthalmological 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
  • Course Director: Pedro Malho DipECVO CES OphtVet DVM MRCVS European and RCVS Recognised Specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology oversees the program
  • 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 Ophthalmology)
  • RACE Accredited: 140 CPD points
Small Animal Ophthalmology
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Learning Modules

September 2026

Module Speaker:

Lorraine Fleming BVetMed CertVOphthal MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Perform a confident ocular examination by using diagnostic ophthalmic instruments including focal illumination, the direct ophthalmoscope, indirect ophthalmoscope and slit lamp biomicroscope
  • Understand the different types of tonometry, including when and how to perform this technique.
  • Appreciate when and how to perform the more advanced techniques of gonioscopy and electroretinography
  • Revise diagnostic cytology, microbiology and biopsy sampling and appreciate the applications of the different methods of investigation
  • Review imaging techniques including ultrasound, radiography, CT and MRI
  • Describe a systematic approach to the investigation of ophthalmology cases including accurate record keeping and photography

October 2026

Module Speaker:

Lorraine Fleming BVetMed CertVOphthal MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Understand basic ophthalmic embryology and post natal ocular development
  • Describe comprehensively the anatomy of the eye
  • Extend your understanding of ocular physiology including the tear film, aqueous production, lens metabolism and retinal physiology
  • Understand basic ocular immunology

November 2026

Module Speaker:

Claudia Hartley BVSc CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe the principles of medicating the eye
  • Understand topical and systemic drug administration
  • Explain vehicles and preparations for ophthalmic drug administration
  • Appreciate classes of drugs
  • Choose the correct drug for common ophthalmic conditions

January 2027

Module Speaker:

Claudia Hartley BVSc CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe the anatomy and clinical conditions involving the orbit, globe, eyelids and nictitans membranes (third eyelids)
  • Review the presenting signs of and differential diagnoses for congenital and acquired orbital disease
  • Understand the effect of facial conformation on globe and eyelid position and its associated effects
  • Appreciate breed predispositions and species differences
  • Become familiar with the aetiopathogenesis of proptosis and its treatment options
  • Recognise the different types of entropion and ectropion and their impact on ocular health
  • Understand the aetiopathogenesis of nictitans membrane disorders

February 2027

Module Speaker:

Claudia Hartley BVSc CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe the anatomy of the conjunctiva and understand the aetiopathogenesis of conjunctival disease and its treatment
  • Perfect your knowledge of the nasolacrimal system and abnormalities that can affect it
  • Understand secretory and excretory components, normal lacrimation and the components of the pre-corneal tear film
  • Appreciate kerato-conjunctivitis sicca
  • Discuss the problems associated with nasolacrimal drainage

March 2027

Module Speaker:

Lorraine Fleming BVetMed CertVOphthal MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe normal corneal anatomy
  • Review normal corneal healing and factors which can affect it
  • Understand how the cornea responds to insults
  • Discuss the different causes of corneal ulceration and its treatment
  • Explain non ulcerative corneal disease
  • Appreciate the anatomy of the episclera and sclera and understand the pathology which can affect these

April 2027

Module Speaker:

Pedro Malho DipECVO CES OphtVét DVM MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Recognise congenital and acquired defects involving the uveal tract and describe the presenting signs of anterior uveitis, posterior uveitis, panuveitis and the approach to diagnosis and treatment
  • Approach non neurological abnormalities of the pupil
  • Understand aqueous opacification
  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the normal lens
  • Explain lenticular disease and the range of congenital and acquired disease that can affect the lens and understand cataractogenesis
  • Be familiar with the approach to cataract surgery together with patient selection, aftercare and potential complications
  • Appreciate primary and secondary lens luxation

May 2027

Module Speaker:

Roser Tetas Pont LV MSc Dip ECVO FHEA MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Describe the production and drainage of aqueous humour and the pathophysiology of the normotensive globe
  • Define glaucoma and understand the different types of primary and secondary glaucoma and species differences
  • Appreciate treatment options for glaucoma
  • Devise a logical approach to the investigation of neuro-ophthalmic problems and understand the relevant neurological pathways and the autonomic nerve supply
  • Recognise normal and abnormal nystagmus
  • Investigate and offer treatment options for blindness of central origin
  • Understand disorders of ocular motility

June 2027

Module Speaker:

Kerry Smith BVetMed CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Understand the normal anatomy of the retina, species differences in retinal vascular patterns and the pathological changes which can occur and their manifestation
  • Describe the process of chorioretinitis
  • Recognise both inherited and acquired retinopathies
  • Appreciate the anatomy of the vitreous, congenital and acquired conditions and different types of vitreal degeneration
  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the normal optic nerve, explain congenital and acquired conditions of the optic nerve and understand the investigation of optic nerve disease

July 2027

Module Speakers:

Kerry Smith BVetMed CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS

Key learning objectives:

  • Recognise primary and secondary ocular neoplasia and explain its management
  • Discuss the ocular manifestations of systemic disease including infectious, metabolic, nutritional, toxic immune mediated or vascular aetiologies
  • Understand the work up for suspected systemic disease
  • Appreciate treatment options for systemic disease in general practice

September 2027

Module Speaker:

Ben Blacklock BVSc DipECVO MRCVS

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Recognise commonly used ophthalmic instruments and understand their use
  • Use loupes and understand operating microscopes for surgical magnification
  • Select appropriate suture material and needle designs
  • Discuss pre and post- operative care of surgical patients and appropriate anaesthetic regimes
  • Understand the basic surgical principles as they pertain to ophthalmic surgery

October 2027

Module Speaker:

Pedro Malho DipECVO CES OphtVét DVM MRCVS

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Perform common surgical techniques for treating disease of the orbit, globe, eyelids, third eyelid, conjunctiva and cornea
  • Practise reconstructive eyelid surgery
  • Understand and perform different methods for enucleation
  • Appreciate the principles of intra ocular surgery

November 2027

Module Speaker:

Ben Blacklock BVSc DipECVO MRCVS

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Appreciate the normal and pathological appearance of histological samples including the significance of abnormalities detected
  • Understand inherited ocular disease, the principles of genetics and modes of inheritance and pedigree data analysis.
  • Appreciate different methods of reducing such disease including eye testing schemes and genetic testing
  • Explain the different conditions which affect different breeds of dog
  • Clinically recognise congenital inherited conditions encountered such as collie eye anomaly, congenital cataract, retinal dysplasia, goniodysgenesis and persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous
  • Clinically recognise non-congenital inherited conditions such as hereditary cataract, primary lens luxation, generalised progressive retinal atrophy and retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy
  • Develop a problem-solving approach to ophthalmic cases

January 2028

Module Speaker:

Pedro Malho DipECVO CES OphtVét DVM MRCVS

Key Learning Objectives:

  • Approach the ophthalmic examination of the rabbit, bird and reptile
  • Have a basic understanding of the evolution of the eye
  • Appreciate species differences in ocular anatomy
  • Be familiar with common diseases seen in rabbits, birds and reptiles
  • Discuss the role of various species in ocular toxicology

*Please note: Module order may be subject to change

Course Speakers

Dr Claudia Hartley
Dr Claudia Hartley
BVSc CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS
Dr Kerry Smith
Dr Kerry Smith
BVetMed CertVOphthal DipECVO MRCVS
Dr Lorraine Fleming
Dr Lorraine Fleming
BVetMed CertVOphthal MRCVS
Dr Pedro Malho
Dr Pedro Malho
DipECVO CES OphtVét DVM MRCVS
Dr Roser Tetas Pont
Dr Roser Tetas Pont
LV MSc Dip ECVO FHEA MRCVS
Dr Ben Blacklock
Dr Ben Blacklock
BVSc DipECVO MRCVS

Payment Options

FAQ

All applicants must:

  • Hold a qualification that allows you to practice as a veterinary surgeon
  • Have spent a minimum of one year in veterinary practice, with a clinical caseload

Please note: It is each delegate’s responsibility to ensure you meet the program entry criteria.

You can enrol directly via the Improve Veterinary Education website. The Team will invoice you for the program and once agreed fees are paid, you will be able to join the program. You can reach out to the Team at [email protected] if you have any questions on how to do this.

You will spend on average 3-4 hours per week, working through the supplied online content and materials at your own pace. Some candidates spend significantly more, if they are engaging on the forums and reading and researching additional content. 

In working towards the General Practitioner (GPCert) or Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) qualifications for the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS), additional time will be required for assessments.

The full OL program must be completed within 12 months of the final module being delivered. For example, in a two-year program, you will have 3 years of access in total. 

Candidates for the ISVPS Certifications are able to complete their assessment requirements and sit for the qualifications for a set time, after program completion with Improve Veterinary Education. Contact ISVPS directly for these guidelines on [email protected].

The Online Learning Programs are designed to be worked through at your own pace and time. For each program module, a specialist is available to answer questions on the discussion board.

The specialist is available for the month their module runs and this interaction is one of the most valuable parts of the program.  You are strongly encouraged to participate if possible and ask questions, even if you have not fully completed the module, to take advantage of the ‘live’ board.

All the discussion boards Q&A are available to review after the module is complete and for the length of the program. Candidates are also encouraged to discuss cases and ask their colleagues questions on earlier modules, if they have not had the opportunity to ask the specialist. 

Any deferral requests are considered on a case by case basis by the Improve Veterinary Education Team administering the Program.  If deferral is agreed, it will include additional administration fees and charges. Specific modules of the program can not be deferred.

Yes, we do accept limited late admissions (subject to availability). If you join late, you will be required to catch up on the module content that you have missed. Please be aware that although discussion forums can be access after the module is finished, the Specialist Tutors are only available for questions during the month their module is being delivered.

The GPCert is a middle-tier postgraduate qualification awarded to veterinary surgeons who successfully complete a dedicated modular training program accredited by International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) and sit the associated ISVPS assessments, including online examinations.

Only registered veterinary surgeons who have been qualified for a minimum of one year can apply to undertake a General Practitioner Certificate.

To find out more about the ISVPS assessments please contact the team at [email protected] or visit the ISVPS website for more detail www.isvps.org.

The PgCert is a further postgraduate qualification that can be achieved either during or after your study for your GPCertificate.

Yes, there are additional assessment criteria from both ISVPS and Harper Adams University (HAU). There are also additional fees for the PGCert. Contact ISVPS directly at [email protected] for further information on how to achieve your PGCert.

Yes, all the requirements for the ISVPS examination are online.

Full details of the ISVPS processes are made available after you have registered with the ISVPS. You will be given a login to the Candidates Area after registration. ISVPS also have individual contact points for each country. [email protected] is the Australian contact address and any questions can be sent to this address for follow-up.

Yes. Location of study does not affect/change this global program. We can accept delegates across Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific region, and you will join the same global program. Additionally, all program content is pre-recorded so can be viewed at any time of day (i.e. time zone differences will not impact your access to content). 

As this program is accredited by ISVPS, you are also eligible to obtain the GPCert or PgCert qualifications.

Registration is made directly to ISVPS (for the GPCert) and HAU (for the PgC)once you are enrolled in the Online Learning Program.  You will be provided with contact details allowing you to complete their registration forms and pay additional fees as required. 

ISVPS registration fees are NOT included in the program fee.  GPCert registration are fees payable are made directly to  ISVPS – you will be provided with contact details allowing you to complete their registration form. 

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