Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Ultrasound Abdominal

Abdominal ultrasound is a vital tool in the investigation of disease processes in small animal veterinary medicine. The ability to obtain diagnostic images and the interpretation of these images in the context of the clinical case is considered a postgraduate skill in Veterinary Education. This Graduate Certificate course provides training in abdominal ultrasound with an emphasis on image optimisation, description and interpretation of the findings. On completion of the course the candidate will be competent in description and interpretation of abdominal ultrasound findings in the general practice setting.

On successful completion of this course the candidate should be able to;

• Acquire diagnostic ultrasound images of the abdomen of dogs and cats
• Describe the abnormalities identified during the ultrasound examination of the abdomen
• Interpret the abnormalities identified with respect to the patient’s other clinical information
• Obtain fine needle aspirates or biopsy samples as indicated by the ultrasound examination
• Communicate their findings and interpretation orally and in the form of a written ultrasound report

This Graduate Certificate comprising of a 4 subject to a total of 50 credit points. The course consists entirely of core subjects, all subjects are compulsory.

Core subjects

1. In order to be considered for entry, applicants must have completed;

• An entry-to-practice veterinary degree that is recognised by the University of Melbourne

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection.

2. In ranking applications, the Selection Committee will consider:

• prior academic performance; and

3. The Selection Committee may seek further information to clarify any aspect of an application in accordance with the Academic Board rules on the use of selection instruments.

4. The minimum English language requirements for this course are Band 6.5.

The Graduate Certificate in Small Animal Ultrasound Abdominal welcomes applications from students with disabilities. It is University and degree policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student’s participation in the degree.

For the purposes of considering requests for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Commonwealth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this course are articulated in the Course Overview, Objectives and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this course are encouraged to discuss this matter with the Student Equity and Disability Support Team: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Successful candidates will be able to seek solutions to problems in abdominal ultrasound through the application of knowledge and the ability to initiate and integrate new ideas. Candidates will develop the skills in literature review and analysis and consolidate lifelong learning.

Successful candidate will develop skills in problem solving, analysis and written and verbal communication.