New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)
Allied Health
A course by
UCOL
Gain hands-on veterinary nursing skills to provide professional care for companion animals with this Level 6 diploma at UCOL.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
UCOL Manawatū, Palmerston North
It will take a total of 2 years
Core skills this course teaches
Professional animal health care
Develop knowledge, skills, and competencies to work safely and effectively in an animal health care environment.
Apply anatomy and physiology
Demonstrate understanding and application of animal anatomy and physiology to support health and welfare.
Practice animal husbandry and behaviour
Provide safe and appropriate husbandry, handling, and behavioural support for companion animals.
What You're Signing Up For
Prepare for a satisfying career as a veterinary nursing professional with the UCOL New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing) Level 6. This two-year, full-time programme provides the technical skills, knowledge and attributes needed to help companion animals attain, maintain or recover health and quality of life. With substantial clinical placements and work-integrated learning, graduates are ready to work in a range of veterinary and animal care settings.
Course Content
- Veterinary nursing practice
- Animal anatomy and physiology
- Animal husbandry and behaviour
- Companion Animal Practicum (I-IV)
- Anaesthesia and analgesia
- Medical nursing care
- Surgical and diagnostic nursing
- Anaesthesia management and emergencies
- Medical nursing and diagnostics
- Surgical nursing and dentistry
- Imaging and veterinary nursing services
- Substantial practical and clinical placements
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 or higher 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
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Healthcare
Veterinary Science
Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary nurse (companion animal clinics)
Assistant roles in veterinary practices
Animal care technician in shelters, clinics, or labs
Animal facility or research assistant