New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4) (Companion Animal Healthcare) or (Rural Animal Healthcare)
Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Designed to create a training pathway for those wanting a rewarding career as an Animal Healthcare Assistant, this programme equips students with technical knowledge, teamwork, and communication skills to assist veterinary professionals. Two specialisations are offered: Companion Animal Healthcare and Rural Animal Healthcare.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Distance, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Apply technical knowledge in animal healthcare settings
Demonstrate technical knowledge and skills to assist and support animals and veterinary staff in a healthcare environment under supervision.
Undertake effective teamwork and communication
Work collaboratively as part of a veterinary team, communicating effectively with veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and animal owners.
Perform infection control and professionalism
What You're Signing Up For
This one-year full-time (or two-year part-time) Level 4 certificate prepares students for roles as Animal Healthcare Assistants, a distinct occupation from veterinary nursing or veterinary technology. Students develop practical and theoretical skills through online and in-person learning, compulsory block courses in Dunedin, and 240 hours of supervised work placement. Two strands—Companion Animal Healthcare and Rural Animal Healthcare—allow learners to tailor their studies. Graduates support veterinary teams and can pathway to the Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.
Course Content
- Companion Animal Professionalism And Infection Control
- Companion Animal Anatomy And Physiology
- Introduction To Companion Animal Husbandry And Behaviour
- Companion Animal Practicum 1
- Companion Animal Health And Hygiene
- Companion Animal Clinical Assistance
- Companion Animal Preparation For Practice
- Companion Animal Practicum 2
- Rural Animal Professionalism and Infection Control
- Rural Animal Anatomy and Physiology
- Rural Animal Husbandry and Behaviour
- Rural Animal Practicum 1
- Rural Animal Health and Hygiene
- Rural Animal Clinical Assistance
- Rural Animal Preparation for Practice
- Rural Animal Practicum 2
- At least 240 hours of work placement
- Block courses in Dunedin
- Online facilitated sessions and discussions
- Work-based learning in animal facilities and veterinary clinics
What you need to know first
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Agriculture
Future employment opportunities might be
Animal Healthcare Assistant
Veterinary clinic assistant
Animal facility support roles
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.