New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
Animal Care
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain the skills and expertise you need to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse. This diploma covers medical and surgical veterinary nursing, diagnostic sampling, and prepares you for registration with regulatory councils.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
It will take a total of 2 years
Core skills this course teaches
Perform medical and surgical veterinary nursing
Demonstrate the ability to provide both medical and surgical care to a diverse range of animals under veterinary supervision.
Conduct diagnostic sampling and imaging
Gain proficiency in diagnostic sampling and using medical imaging equipment for animal health assessment.
Apply professional practice and ethics
Work effectively and ethically within veterinary practices, ensuring the health and welfare of animals.
What You're Signing Up For
This two-year programme equips you with essential skills and knowledge in both surgical and medical veterinary nursing, as well as expertise in diagnostic sampling and medical imaging. You will learn through hands-on experiences and work placement in real veterinary and animal care settings. Graduates are eligible for registration as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN), fulfilling industry standards for professional veterinary nursing practice.
Course Content
- Surgical veterinary nursing skills and procedures
- Medical veterinary nursing skills and procedures
- Diagnostic sampling techniques
- Medical imaging for animals
- Animal care and welfare
- Professional practice and ethics
- Work placements in veterinary clinics and animal care centres
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 or higher including a minimum of 12 credits in English (Level 2), Mathematics (Level 1), and relevant Science (Level 1)
Relevant qualification at NZQF Level 3 or above
Recognised equivalent qualification
Completion of a health declaration and declaration of any criminal convictions
Attendance at an information meeting
Current Basic First Aid Certificate (highly recommended)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Registered Veterinary Nurse
Veterinary Nursing Supervisor
Veterinary Practice Manager
Veterinary Laboratory Technician
Veterinary Related Account Manager
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.