New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)

Allied Health

A course by

UCOL

Gain hands-on veterinary nursing skills to provide professional care for companion animals with this Level 6 diploma at UCOL.

$ENQUIRE

Interested in this course? Enquire now for Domestic & International pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 6 Certification (240 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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In-person study

Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting

UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North

It will take a total of 2 years

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Professional animal health care

Develop knowledge, skills, and competencies to work safely and effectively in an animal health care environment.

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Apply anatomy and physiology

Demonstrate understanding and application of animal anatomy and physiology to support health and welfare.

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Practice animal husbandry and behaviour

Provide safe and appropriate husbandry, handling, and behavioural support for companion animals.

What You're Signing Up For

Prepare for a satisfying career as a veterinary nursing professional with the UCOL New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing) Level 6. This two-year, full-time programme provides the technical skills, knowledge and attributes needed to help companion animals attain, maintain or recover health and quality of life. With substantial clinical placements and work-integrated learning, graduates are ready to work in a range of veterinary and animal care settings.

Course Content

  • Veterinary nursing practice
  • Animal anatomy and physiology
  • Animal husbandry and behaviour
  • Companion Animal Practicum (I-IV)
  • Anaesthesia and analgesia
  • Medical nursing care
  • Surgical and diagnostic nursing
  • Anaesthesia management and emergencies
  • Medical nursing and diagnostics
  • Surgical nursing and dentistry
  • Imaging and veterinary nursing services
  • Substantial practical and clinical placements

What you need to know first

NCEA Level 2 or higher including 12 credits in English at Level 2 or higher, 12 credits in Mathematics at Level 1 or higher, and 12 credits of relevant science (preferably Biology) at Level 1 or higher

OR a relevant Level 4 Certificate in Animal Care/Management

OR a recognised equivalent

Health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction

Proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Animal Healthcare

  • Veterinary Science

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Veterinary nurse (companion animal clinics)

  • Assistant roles in veterinary practices

  • Animal care technician in shelters, clinics, or labs

  • Animal facility or research assistant