COE calls on veterinary schools to better evaluate skills of students after graduation

Schaumburg, Ill. --

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education (COE) is proposing that veterinary schools adopt an outcomes-assessment system for veterinary students as a requirement for accreditation.

The proposal, which is open for comments by interested stakeholders until Dec. 1, would require veterinary schools to measure, analyze and improve existing programs through outcomes assessment of veterinary students.

"Outcomes-assessment measures that address the college mission must be developed and implemented. Outcomes-assessment results must be used to improve the college programs," the proposed languages states. Student achievement must be included in the outcomes assessments, and veterinary graduates should display an independent understanding of basic scientific knowledge and skills.

The proposed revision lists a number of competencies veterinary students and graduates must possess, and calls on veterinary schools to create metrics to determine whether students/graduates have mastered those skills.

Another change calls on the veterinary colleges to maintain research activities that integrate with and strengthen the professional program. The current standard states that colleges "shall" maintain "adequate" research activities of "high quality."

Written comments must be postmarked by (or e-mailed no later than) Dec. 1. Mail comments to Millie Maresh, Administrative Assistant, AVMA 1931 N. Meacham Rd, Ste 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360, or e-mail mmaresh@avma.org.