New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)
Animal Care
A course by
UCOL
Prepare for a rewarding career as a veterinary nurse specialising in companion animals. Develop professional clinical skills in animal care, surgical support, diagnostics, and veterinary practice, and gain hands-on experience to become a confident, capable member of the veterinary team.
NZ$10,767
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 6 Certification (240 Credits)
Advanced
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NZ$10,767
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
This course starts anytime
NZQA Level 6 Certification (240 Credits)
Advanced
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Core skills this course teaches
Demonstrate professional veterinary nursing practice
Work safely and effectively within animal healthcare environments, following best practice veterinary procedures and policies.
Support animal health and welfare
Apply knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, and behavioural needs to provide quality husbandry and clinical care.
What You're Signing Up For
This diploma prepares ākonga for professional roles in veterinary nursing focusing on companion animals such as cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and birds. The programme is designed to build strong clinical skills and deepen understanding of animal health and welfare, offering practical training through simulation, work placements in animal care facilities, and veterinary clinics. Graduates will be equipped to assist with surgeries, patient monitoring, diagnostic testing, and provide appropriate care through each stage of an animal’s health journey. Attendance is required for all practical components, and placements may require travel outside the Manawatū region.
Course Content
- Veterinary nursing practice
- Animal anatomy and physiology
- Companion animal husbandry and behaviour
- Professional communication in veterinary contexts
- Surgical nursing and diagnostics
- Veterinary anaesthesia and analgesia
- Medical nursing care
- Imaging and diagnostic procedures
- Practicum placements in animal care facility and veterinary clinics
- Pathophysiology and pharmacology relevant to companion animals
- Emergency nursing and anaesthetic management
- Dental and surgical care for animals
- Multidisciplinary team collaboration in veterinary settings
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, 12 credits in a relevant science (preferably Biology) at Level 1 or higher
Find these employment opportunities
Veterinary Nurse (Companion animals)Veterinary Clinic AssistantAnimal Health Technician
Unlock these industries
UCOL is a polytechnic built around the kind of learning that actually sticks — hands-on, practical, and grounded in the real world. With campuses across the lower North Island and a programme range that stretches from trades and health to creative arts and IT, it's a strong fit for learners who want a clear path into work without unnecessary detours. Whether you're fresh out of school, changing direction, or building on what you already know, UCOL is set up to meet you where you are.
