Study Programs
– Introduction
The concept of the WVEPAH programs is to offer comprehensive training modules, consisting of both residential courses and distance learning. They are designed for professionals in the poultry industry who wish to broaden their knowledge in the area of poultry health and production. The intensive training is provided at an advanced level with major emphasis on a case-oriented and problem-solving approach.
Since the target audience consists of graduated poultry veterinarians and animal scientists, very little time is devoted to basic subjects (anatomy, physiology…). For those who need it, these will be covered by online information prior to the courses. Upon completion of a training program, the participants will have obtained a level of competence which will enable them to solve most of the problems in the specialized areas.
WVEPAH courses include lectures, discussions, demonstrations, case presentations and laboratory work. Special emphasis is given to how to retrieve specific information and how to use it for self-study and clinical work. Daily seminars and review sessions help to develop critical evaluation of the case material presented.
The core study program is composed of two sessions, with at least one residential (depending on the Covid situation), lasting 10 days each, with distance learning between the courses conducted through the WVEPAH private Facebook group reserved for the course masters, PCAHPP graduates and training participants.
Requirements include: have a university degree in veterinary or agronomic studies and have worked in the poultry sector for a minimum of three years. It should be noted that only graduates in veterinary medicine are eligible for the Certificate exams, according to the rules of the OIE, but all participants receive a certificate of participation. Refresher courses for specific subjects are planned.
In order to permit a high level of training efficiency, the number of participants is limited, and theoretical information does not exceed four hours a day. The remaining training time is reserved for practical exercises and problem-solving.
Each course is taught by course masters who are internationally recognized specialists in their field and have excellent didactic skills. In the period(s) between sessions, participants receive online material and tasks from their course masters.
The course masters (tutors) are responsible for the scientific content as well as for conducting the courses. Host partner universities are chosen for their good reputation and the quality of their technical platform. The WVEPAH takes care of the general organization, the local technical aspects and assistance to the participants.
Eligible participants, after passing the various exams, can obtain the “Professional Certificate in Animal Health: Poultry Production” (PCAHPP).
The requirements, in brief, for these programs include:
The minimum length of the Certificate program is one year and must not exceed 5 years. It consists of online and residential modules, written work, and the supervised acquisition of practical experience during the participant’s professional activities between modules.
For the Certificate, a minimum of 160 course hours and 40 ECTS credits are required. The details of the hours and credits required for work outside of the course hours are specified in the Certificate section.
Each session is validated by an exam, and, at the end, a participation certificate is issued.
Participants also complete clinical cases from their field work in a provided format, as well as in-depth clinical case reports. These cases and reports are very important – they represent half of the marks required for certification.
