Who awards the PGCert in SAIM?

The qualification is awarded by the University of West London in partnership with Central CPD

How long does the course take to complete?

You can choose from two modes of study:

One-year part-time option
Two-year part-time option (pending approval)

Both options start annually in September and February.

How much time should I expect to dedicate to studying?

The PGCert in Small Animal Internal Medicine provides you with 60 credits. One credit is worth 10 learning hours, so you will be undertaking 600 study hours.

This will be through a combination of in-person, structured online training programmes, and self-directed study.

As a guide:

One year study option: Just under 12 hours per week
Two year study option: Just under 6 hours per week

What does the course structure look like?

Module I: Small Animal Internal Medicine: Core Principles (20 credits)

For the one-year pathway you will need to complete two clinical topic per month (either two online training programmes, or one online training programme and one attendance lecture)
For the two-year pathway you will need to complete one clinical topic per month (either one online training programme, or one attendance lecture)
Online training programmes (15 clinical topics)
- You have the flexibility to choose the order in which you complete these topics, allowing you to prioritise areas relevant to your current caseload of areas of interest.

Attendance lectures (eight clinical topics)
- Scheduled on specific dates to facilitate collaboration and direct engagement with lecturers. See the cohort calendar under the Course Overview for dates.
- For the two-year pathway, you will be given all the dates for year 1 lectures, but you may choose to attend lectures in your second year if you prefer.

Module II: Reflective Case Portfolio (40 credits)

Four case studies (covering different clinical topics)
1-to-1 mentor evenings for case discussions
- These will be bookable sessions and take place online with specialists in internal medicine.

How will I be assessed?

Module I: case-based MCQ examination which will take place on-site.
Module II: case study portfolio (four clinical cases – 8,000 words)

What is the pass mark for the assessments?

A minimum of 50% is required to pass each module.

Can I retake assessments if I fail?

You can resit examinations a second time. If you fail a second time you may have to retake the module. The assessment guide can be requested for further information.

What academic and pastoral support is available?

Induction and orientation
Specialist lecturers and 1-to-1 clinical mentors
Online On-Demand library with additional resources
Case-study evening session to discuss requirements and writing skills
Mental health support via Wellbeing Champions
Disability support and reasonable adjustments
IT and technical support for online learning platforms
Central CPD reading list library – all recommended reading list textbooks are available to view on-site

Where are the in-person sessions held?

Course directions will be sent out ahead of sessions and will take place at our venues in central London.

What happens if I miss a session?

Attendance requirements are laid out within the Attendance Policy. All in-person sessions require attendance, except in cases of extenuating circumstances. Please email pgcerts@centralcpd.co.uk for further information.

What do I need ahead of the course?

A computer/laptop and basic internet proficiency.

What if I experience technical issues?

Central CPD’s operations team offers support via email, webchat or phone. We can also provide tutorials for Central CPD On-Demand if required. If your internet is down you are welcome to come study at our Pickle Factory facilities – please email pgcerts@centralcpd.co.uk to organise.

How much is the course?

The PGCert costs £10,700 +VAT which includes all fees and assessments.

Can I use the PGCert to apply for Advanced Practitioner status?

We encourage you to consult with the RCVS for specific guidance on how this qualification can be used in your application for RCVS Advanced Practitioner status.

Please get in touch at enquiries@centralcpd.co.uk or give us a call on 0207 585 1692 if you have any questions or would like any further information.