European Veterinary Specialist (Diplomate Education)
In veterinary medicine, it is possible to become a European Specialist (Diplomate) in various fields. This advanced education typically takes 3-4 years after completing a veterinary degree.
European Specialist Education (Diplomate Program)
A certified European Veterinary Specialist has undergone a highly demanding training program and documented extensive expertise in their field through this training and examination. As a veterinary specialist, one may serve as a link between academia and practice, contribute to the training and education of students and colleagues, and act as a referral partner when needed. Specialist training often leads to a broad professional network of colleagues in other European countries, which can be both highly interesting and beneficial. Collaborating with other European veterinary specialists can provide access to new experiences, knowledge, and technology, enriching veterinary medicine across borders.
Implementation
The specialist training is conducted internally at The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at NMBU and is not an open study program. Those undergoing this training are typically employed by the university. The formal requirements of the different disciplines vary, but common elements are largely the same. The candidate must complete a residency of at least three years, gaining both broad and in-depth knowledge in their field. During the training, candidates usually handle a large number of cases, with requirements for a wide variety of types. They also delve into particularly interesting cases and provide approved reports. Candidates are closely supervised by one or more mentors to ensure quality. They must also thoroughly familiarize themselves with all relevant literature, including all scientific articles published in the specialization field within the last five years. Additionally, candidates must publish 1-2 peer-reviewed international scientific articles as the first author and are usually required to present at both national and international scientific conferences. The program must be individually approved before candidates can take the exam.
Institutional Requirements
The training can be conducted at both academic and private institutions, provided the institution's program is approved by the relevant college. It is mandatory that the candidate's mentor is an approved diplomate, and institutions are often required to have European specialists in related fields. Furthermore, institutions must have access to a sufficient number of cases, modern equipment, relevant literature, and research facilities. European specialist education is now offered in many European countries, mainly at universities but also at some large private clinics.
Examination
The final exam is taken after the specialist training and is characterized by a very high difficulty level regardless of the specialty. Exam formats vary between colleges but generally include components that assess the candidate's breadth, depth, and problem-solving knowledge. EBVS requires about 60% of candidates to pass on their first attempt, but some colleges have much lower pass rates.
European Board of Veterinary Specialisation
The European Board of Veterinary Specialisation (EBVS) (https://www.ebvs.eu/) was established in 1993 to coordinate, approve, and oversee specialist education in Europe. Currently, there is only one level of specialization recognized and quality-controlled by EBVS: the programs managed by European colleges, which confer the title of Diplomate/European Veterinary Specialist. There are 25 different specialties available, each managed by its own college. These colleges are responsible for developing residency programs, as well as examining and approving candidates. Specialist certification is valid for a maximum of five years, after which the accreditation committee of the college must review the specialist for renewal.
For a list of EBVS-registered colleges, please refer to the organization’s official website.
NMBU's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine employs diplomates specializing in several colleges.
American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
European College of Animal Reproduction
European College of Animal Welfare and Behavioural Medicine
European College of Aquatic Animal Health
European College of Equine Internal Medicine
European College of Porcine Health Management
European College of Small Ruminant Health Management
European College of Veterinary Anaesthesia and analgesia
European College of Veterinary Clinical Pathology
European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
European College of Veterinary Microbiology
European College of Small Ruminant Health Management
European College of Veterinary Public Health
European College of Veterinary Pathologists
European College of Veterinary Surgeons
European College of Veterinary Neurology
European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
European College of Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation