Allied Health
A course by
UCOL
Gain the skills to assist veterinarians and nurses in companion animal healthcare through this one-year Level 4 certificate, including practicum in clinical animal healthcare environments.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 1 year

Develop knowledge and skills to work safely and effectively in an animal healthcare environment, observing infection control and professionalism.

Understand and apply basic concepts in animal nutrition, anatomy, and physiology related to companion animal patient care.

Provide appropriate husbandry and handling to support animal health and welfare, ensuring humane and effective care.
This Level 4 programme provides students with the knowledge and skills required to assist veterinary doctors and nurses in clinical practice, with emphasis on companion animal behaviour, husbandry, hygiene, handling, infection control, and effective teamwork. The course includes practical placements and covers anatomy, physiology, clinical skills, and animal welfare, preparing you for registration on the New Zealand Register of Animal Healthcare Assistants and for work in vet clinics, animal hospitals, and related settings.
What you need to know first
40 credits at NCEA Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits, or recognised equivalent
Relevant qualification at NZQF Level 2 or above, or equivalent

Companion animal healthcare
Veterinary Services

Animal healthcare assistant in veterinary clinics/hospitals
Clinical support roles in animal care
Eligibility to apply for registration on the New Zealand Register of Animal Healthcare Assistants
Allied Health
A course by
UCOL
Gain the skills to assist veterinarians and nurses in companion animal healthcare through this one-year Level 4 certificate, including practicum in clinical animal healthcare environments.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 1 year

Develop knowledge and skills to work safely and effectively in an animal healthcare environment, observing infection control and professionalism.

Understand and apply basic concepts in animal nutrition, anatomy, and physiology related to companion animal patient care.

Provide appropriate husbandry and handling to support animal health and welfare, ensuring humane and effective care.
This Level 4 programme provides students with the knowledge and skills required to assist veterinary doctors and nurses in clinical practice, with emphasis on companion animal behaviour, husbandry, hygiene, handling, infection control, and effective teamwork. The course includes practical placements and covers anatomy, physiology, clinical skills, and animal welfare, preparing you for registration on the New Zealand Register of Animal Healthcare Assistants and for work in vet clinics, animal hospitals, and related settings.
What you need to know first
40 credits at NCEA Level 1, including 10 Literacy credits and 10 Numeracy credits, or recognised equivalent
Relevant qualification at NZQF Level 2 or above, or equivalent

Companion animal healthcare
Veterinary Services

Animal healthcare assistant in veterinary clinics/hospitals
Clinical support roles in animal care
Eligibility to apply for registration on the New Zealand Register of Animal Healthcare Assistants