New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4) (Rural Animal Healthcare)
Animal Care
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A Level 4 programme specialised in Rural Animal Healthcare, training students to become Animal Healthcare Assistants capable of supporting veterinary nurses and technicians in veterinary practices.
NZ$9,721
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Support veterinary professionals in rural settings
Work effectively under broad supervision alongside veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and veterinary technicians to assist with animal healthcare in rural practices.
Apply animal healthcare knowledge and skills
About This Course
This certificate is designed for those seeking a rewarding career as an Animal Healthcare Assistant with a rural (farm/large animal) focus. You'll gain technical skills, experience real-world work placements, and develop professional communication and teamwork skills. The programme requires you to complete significant work placement hours and includes compulsory block courses in-person. Graduates are prepared to support veterinarians and veterinary nurses under broad supervision, with a focus on supporting animal healthcare in rural New Zealand.
Course Content
- 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
- Online facilitated teaching sessions and discussion forums
- 240 hours of work placement (including 80 hours in a veterinary clinic and 160 hours at other animal facilities/farms)
Entry Requirements
40 credits at NCEA Level 1 including 10 Literacy and 10 Numeracy credits OR relevant qualification at NZQF Level 2 or above OR recognised equivalent
Build towards these roles
Animal Healthcare AssistantVeterinary AssistantRural Animal HandlerFarm Animal Care Assistant
Build skills in these industries
Animal CareAgriculture
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.
