Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing (third year)
Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Complete the third year of your Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing online, in partnership with EIT. Gain advanced skills in medical and surgical veterinary nursing, animal welfare, and clinical practice.
NZ$9,359
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Animal welfare leadership
Place animal welfare at the forefront of every veterinary nursing task and consider human and environmental factors.
Professional responsibilities
Integrate knowledge of the professional, cultural, ethical and moral responsibilities of a veterinary nurse.
About This Course
In collaboration with the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), Otago Polytechnic offers the third year of the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing qualification online. Learners proceed from the Level 6 Diploma and, upon completing this year, gain a Bachelor-level degree in Veterinary Nursing. The programme focuses on advanced veterinary nursing procedures, animal welfare, surgical and medical skills, and leadership in veterinary care environments. Practical experience is integral, supported by a work placement requirement. Most instruction is online, coordinated by experienced staff. Graduates become skilled veterinary nurses, able to work in clinical, educational, research, and commercial animal health settings.
Course Content
- Integrated medical nursing
- Anaesthesia and surgery
- Applied animal welfare, wildlife, conservation, and emergency care
- Reflective and inquiry-based practice
- Diagnostic sampling and medical imaging
- Portfolio development and practical assessments via work placement
Entry Requirements
New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (assessed on a case-by-case basis by EIT)
Build towards these roles
Veterinary NurseVeterinary Nurse EducatorAnimal Care EducatorDepartment of Conservation (DOC) rolesMinistry for Primary Industries (MPI) rolesHumane Society rolesCommercial and medical representativeVeterinary sales representativeSpecialist clinic rolesAnimal care researcher
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
