Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (third year)

Nursing

Complete your degree-level Veterinary Nursing study online through the third-year Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing, offered by Otago Polytechnic in partnership with EIT. This programme provides advanced knowledge in veterinary nursing with compulsory clinical placements.

NZ$8,138

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 7 Certification (120 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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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

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Animal Welfare Prioritisation

Place animal welfare at the forefront of every veterinary nursing task and procedure performed while also considering human and environmental factors.

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Professional and Ethical Responsibilities

Integrate extensive knowledge and understanding of the professional, cultural, ethical and moral responsibilities of a veterinary nurse.

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Advanced Clinical Skills

Confidently apply advanced theoretical knowledge and skills in veterinary medical nursing, anaesthesia and surgical assistance in practice.

What You're Signing Up For

This third-year Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing allows Otago Polytechnic Veterinary Nursing learners to complete a degree qualification online in partnership with EIT. The programme advances students' knowledge and clinical skills in veterinary nursing, with a strong focus on reflective practice, animal welfare, clinical reasoning, and research. It is designed to produce graduates who are capable of advanced evidence-based practice, critical thinking, and leadership within veterinary clinics and animal care organisations.

Course Content

  • Reflective Practice and Inquiry for Veterinary Nursing A
  • Wildlife and Conservation
  • Integrated Medical Nursing
  • Applied Contemporary Animal Welfare
  • Emergency Care and Response
  • Reflective Practice and Inquiry for Veterinary Nursing B
  • Integrated Surgical Nursing
  • 160 hours of work experience in at least two different veterinary practices
  • Portfolio with practical assessments and clinical skills
  • Online learning with some face-to-face tutorials (for international students at EIT campus)

What you need to know first

New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) or international equivalent

If holding the National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, subject to case-by-case assessment by EIT

English language requirements for international students (IELTS Academic 6.0, no band less than 5.5, or equivalent)

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Animal Care

  • Veterinary Services

  • Animal Health

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Veterinary Nurse

  • Veterinary Nurse Educator

  • Animal Care Educator

  • Department of Conservation (DOC) roles

  • Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) roles

  • Humane Society roles

  • Commercial/medical representative

  • Specialist veterinary clinic roles

  • Veterinary Nursing or Animal Care Researcher