New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (L6) (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)
Allied Health
A course by
Whitireia & WelTec
Become a fully qualified veterinary nurse with this diploma focused on companion animal veterinary nursing. Gain hands-on clinical, surgical, hospital, and diagnostic skills through a blend of classroom learning and extensive work placement.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
It will take a total of 2 years
Core skills this course teaches
Develop clinical veterinary nursing skills
Gain practical skills for nursing companion animals in clinical, surgical, and hospital environments.
Work effectively in animal healthcare settings
Prepare for roles in veterinary clinics, animal rescue, government, and research organisations.
Demonstrate professional responsibility
Be eligible to apply for voluntary registration with the Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council.
What You're Signing Up For
This two-year Level 6 diploma prepares students to work as veterinary nurses with a focus on companion animals including cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, and rodents. The programme blends face-to-face and online learning and includes at least 750 hours of work placement across animal healthcare settings. Graduates gain clinical, surgical, diagnostic, and hospital nursing skills, and become eligible for voluntary registration with the Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council. Career opportunities span veterinary clinics, product suppliers, animal rescue, government, and research organisations.
Course Content
- Veterinary Nursing Practice
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Animal Husbandry and Behaviour
- Companion Animal Practicum I & II
- Introduction to Anaesthesia and Analgesia
- Introduction to Medical Nursing
- Introduction to Surgery and Diagnostics
- Anaesthesia Management and Emergencies
- Medical Nursing and Diagnostics
- Companion Animal Practicum III & IV
- Surgical Nursing and Dentistry
- Imaging and Veterinary Nursing Services
What you need to know first
NCEA Level 2 or higher with at least 12 credits in English at Level 2 or higher
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Veterinary services
Animal health
Animal welfare and rescue
Government agencies
Animal research
Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary nurse