New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Companion Animal Healthcare)
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
Core skills this course teaches
Professional and Safe Practice
Develop knowledge and skills to work safely and effectively in an animal healthcare environment, observing infection control and professionalism.
Animal Anatomy, Physiology, and Nutrition
Understand and apply basic concepts in animal nutrition, anatomy, and physiology related to companion animal patient care.
Animal Husbandry and Handling
Provide appropriate husbandry and handling to support animal health and welfare, ensuring humane and effective care.
What You're Signing Up For
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.
Course Content
- Companion Animal Professionalism and Infection Control
- Companion Animal Anatomy and Physiology
- Companion Animal Husbandry
- Companion Animal Clinical Skills 1 & 2
- Companion Animal Health and Hygiene
- Clinical Assistance in Animal Healthcare Environment
- Preparation for Practice and First Aid
- Placement in animal health settings (minimum 240 hours)
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
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Companion animal healthcare
Veterinary Services
Future employment opportunities might be
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