Certificate in Avian Wildlife Healthcare (Veterinarian) (Level 7)
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A unique programme for qualified veterinarians to upskill in avian wildlife healthcare, focusing on medicine, surgery, and providing optimal standards of care to injured or sick native birds.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 12 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Provide optimal welfare standards for avian wildlife patients
Ensure high standards of welfare and outcomes when treating avian wildlife.
Plan and manage avian anaesthesia
Safely and effectively anaesthetise avian wildlife patients, including monitoring and support.
Diagnose and manage avian diseases
Plan for diagnosis, treatment, and management of a range of avian wildlife diseases.
What You're Signing Up For
This Level 7 certificate, delivered online with an in-person placement at the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, is designed for veterinarians who manage avian wildlife patients. The programme includes modules on avian anatomy and physiology, trauma assessment and care, anaesthesia, disease management, diagnostic imaging, soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery, ethics, and legal frameworks. Students gain practical experience with hospital placements and graduate ready to provide advanced care for avian wildlife.
Course Content
- Avian anatomy and physiology
- Legal and ethical frameworks in avian healthcare
- Species-appropriate husbandry and supportive care
- Trauma procedures for avian wildlife
- Anaesthesia planning and management
- Clinical procedures and diagnostics
- Diagnostic imaging techniques
- Soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery for birds
- Management of avian diseases and clinical pathology
- Post-mortem and pathophysiology analysis
- Work placement at the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital
What you need to know first
Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Level 7) or equivalent
Registration with the Veterinary Council of New Zealand
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Veterinary Services
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Allied Health
Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary roles in wildlife hospitals or rehabilitation centres
Private veterinary practice with avian/wildlife specialisation
Consultancy in avian medicine and surgery
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.