#124: So You Want To Sit The Membership Exams? Your Questions About ANZCVS Memberships Answered.

If you clicked on this episode, then I’m guessing that you already know WHAT the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists membership exams are. Maybe you’re considering sitting them, or perhaps you’ve already put your hand up for 2025, but you still have so many questions. Like, how much time would I need to commit, how much study is required each week, HOW hard is it actually, WHAT do I need to study, and how do I set myself up for success? Should I do a course, how do I utilise me mentors, or my study group, and perhaps the most important question… WHY would I even put myself through it?!

This episode is made up of multiple conversations about surgery membership, and it will answer all of those questions and more. We talk to specialist surgeons Dr Chris Tan and Dr Mark Newman, as well as membership candidate (at the time of recording) Dr Stephen Mansour and recent successful membership candidate Dr Justin Ward. While the conversation focuses on surgery memberships, most of the information will be applicable to any of the specialties. 

If you need an on-the-go study aid for your surgery membership prep, or if you just want to take your surgery theoretical knowledge to the next level, check out our advanced surgery podcast at cutabove.supercast.com

Oh, and if you were just curious about what membership exams are: the ANZCS (Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists) membership exams are rigorous assessments designed to evaluate the clinical knowledge and expertise of veterinarians who want to level up in their field of interest. Anyone with a degree that is eligible for registration in Australia or New Zealand and with more than 3.5 years in practice can register to sit memberships. The exams serve as a benchmark for professional excellence, enabling successful candidates to attain membership in the College, thereby recognising their advanced competency in a specific area of veterinary science. 

Still interested? Then keep listening!

Topics and time stamps

04:29 Exam Structure and Requirements

08:28 The Importance of Pathophysiology

12:52 Personal Experiences and Motivations

16:54 Balancing Study and Life

17:36 The Value of Membership Certification

26:59 Marketability and Practical Skills

29:36 Preparing for Membership Exams

31:21 Time Management and Study Schedules

35:56 Mentorship and Study Groups

48:17 Essential Study Resources

55:44 Balancing Study and Personal Life

"Understanding ANZCVS Memberships: What You Need to Know"

• The ANZCVS offers membership exams across various chapters, with each chapter setting its own exams.
• The membership exam is a mid-tier level qualification and doesn't involve any practical component or logbook assessment.
• It's primarily designed for vets in practice and serves as a means to improve surgical understanding and build a network of like-minded professionals.

• To be eligible, you need to be a qualified veterinarian for a minimum of three and a half years.
• The application process involves submitting an intention to sit form and paying a fee, typically around $1,000-$2,000.

• The membership examination comprises two parts: a written exam and an oral exam.
• The written exam consists of two papers, each lasting approximately two hours, covering pathophysiology and clinical case scenarios.
• The oral exam involves answering clinical case scenarios in front of examiners.

• To pass, candidates need to achieve an overall average of 70%, with a minimum of 55% in each component (written and oral).

• Enhanced Surgical Understanding: Studying for the exams significantly improves surgical knowledge and decision-making.
• Professional Development: It demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and can enhance career opportunities.
• Personal Satisfaction and Recognition: Achieving membership provides a sense of accomplishment and recognition within the veterinary community.

• Dedicated Study Time: Candidates should allocate approximately 6-8 hours per week for study, with increased intensity (around 20 hours) in the final six months.
• Structured Study Plan and Timetable: Creating a detailed study schedule and sticking to it is crucial for success.
• Mentorship: Seek guidance from a mentor who has previously sat for the exams.
• Study Groups: Joining a study group provides support, motivation, and opportunities for knowledge sharing.
• Resources and Materials: The primary resource is Tobias and Johnson's Veterinary Surgery Small Animal. Additional resources include anatomy textbooks, distance education courses, and online platforms like VIN.
• Past Exam Papers: Familiarizing yourself with past papers helps to understand the exam format and depth of knowledge required.

• Pathophysiology: Many candidates find the pathophysiology component particularly challenging.
• Maintaining Balance: Balancing study with work, family, and personal life is essential.
• Support Network: A strong support network, including a mentor, study group, and understanding family and colleagues, plays a vital role in navigating the challenges.

• Pass rates are estimated to be around 70-80%.
• While the ANZCVS Membership doesn't guarantee a pay raise, it may improve marketability, attract potential employers, and enhance credibility as a surgical mentor.

"The Benefits of ANZCVS Memberships Beyond the Exam"