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.
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.

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

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

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Health
Veterinary Services
Companion Animal Care

Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary Nurse in veterinary clinics
Animal healthcare assistant
Clinic practice manager (within scope of qualification)


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More details