New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)

Allied Health

A course by

Wintec

Develop the clinical and practical veterinary nursing skills required to care for companion animals in veterinary clinics. Includes extensive hands-on training, industry placements, and preparation for employment as a veterinary nurse.

NZ$9,785

inc GST

Enquire about 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

Rotokauri Campus, Hamilton

It will take a total of 2 years

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Develop advanced veterinary nursing skills

Gain skills in nursing care, handling, and management of companion animals in a clinical setting.

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Clinical Practice Readiness

Acquire experience and professional competency through 750 hours of industry placement and on-site training.

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Patient and client management

Learn protocols to manage animal patients and interact with clients in veterinary practice.

What You're Signing Up For

The New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) provides learners with comprehensive training in the care, management, and clinical nursing of companion animals. Students develop advanced skills in patient care, clinical procedures, client communication, and practice management, including 750 hours of industry placement. The programme includes hands-on learning in Wintec’s purpose-built facilities and on-site vet clinic, preparing graduates for employment in veterinary clinics as qualified veterinary nurses.

Course Content

  • Veterinary Nursing Practice
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Animal Husbandry and Behaviour
  • Companion Animal Practicum (I-IV)
  • Introduction to Anaesthesia and Analgesia
  • Introduction to Medical Nursing
  • Introduction to Surgery and Diagnostics
  • Anaesthesia Management and Emergencies
  • Medical Nursing and Diagnostics
  • Surgical Nursing and Dentistry
  • Imaging and Veterinary Nursing Services
  • Industry Placement (750 hours)

What you need to know first

NCEA Level 2, 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 recognized equivalent, such as New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4), Animal Management (Level 4), or Animal Care (Level 3)

Special admission: 20 years or older without meeting standard requirements, subject to assessment

Discretionary admission: Under 20 years with other evidence of preparedness

Physical ability to carry out practical veterinary nursing tasks

Satisfactory Police check

Declaration of health and ability to handle domestic animals

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Animal Health

  • Veterinary Services

  • Companion Animal Care

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Veterinary Nurse in veterinary clinics

  • Animal healthcare assistant

  • Clinic practice manager (within scope of qualification)