Veterinary Specialty Boards Reading Lists

"Candidates are advised to review relevant and current veterinary medical curriculum notes, but are reminded that as specialty certification examinations, the expected level of preparation and knowledge is much higher than a review of veterinary medical curriculum. Candidates should plan to study advanced and graduate level information resources. Review particularly relevant subjects such as bacteriology, mycology, immunology, parasitology, virology, infectious diseases, epidemiology, histology, pathology, therapeutics, statistics, and molecular biology and technology."

Texts

"There are many excellent and useful textbooks available. Pay particular attention to the most recent editions of the listed examples. The figures, diagrams and photographs in texts are particularly useful in preparing for the specialty (Part II) examinations. The following are examples of some textbooks that will be helpful. The list is not all-inclusive, nor is it necessary to study all texts:

Journals

"Read thoroughly and critically all journals you feel to be pertinent. This is a formidable, but not impossible task. Place greater emphasis on refereed journals. Figures and diagrams in journals are particularly useful for the specialty (Part II) examination."

"In general, careful study of up-to-date textbooks in veterinary parasitology will provide candidates with solid preparation for the general and specialty examinations. Reading the current clinical parasitology literature is appropriate to further prepare for the examinations. Examples of appropriate textbook and journals that should be the focus of preparation are listed below. The most current editions of textbooks and journals from the past 5 years should be studied."

"Attend seminars, lectures, and courses. These are available through the AVMA, specialty interest groups, and national, state, and local groups.  Good sources are veterinary schools, hospitals, and industry such as biologics, manufacturers.  Make a special effort to attend lectures or seminars given by ACVM Diplomates or sponsored by the ACVM.  If you know you have a weak area, sign up for a course in that area.  Many universities will allow faculty to "audit" a course without charge."

"Participate in AVMA Tutorials.  The AVMA has prepared a variety of videotape, slide, and film presentation of specific infectious diseases which may be helpful.  Join study groups.  In some parts of the country, it will be possible to form study groups of 2 to 5 people.  This system works well only for some."

"Publish.  Contribute to the literature.  Reviews of the literature are fine learning tools and good publications require good literature review."

Texts

most recent edition

Journals

last 5 years