Certificate in Avian Wildlife Healthcare (Veterinary Nurses) (Level 6)
Nursing
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Specialised professional development for qualified veterinary nurses to gain skills in avian wildlife healthcare, including patient support, management, and hands-on practice at the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Online and Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, Dunedin
It will take a total of 1 year
This course requires 12 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Optimal welfare for avian wildlife patients
Ensure optimal standards of welfare and outcomes for avian wildlife patients
Management of nursing care for wildlife with diseases
Manage nursing care plans and procedures for avian wildlife patients with medical diseases
Diagnostics and imaging support
Perform or assist veterinarians with diagnostics and diagnostic imaging for avian wildlife patients
What You're Signing Up For
This Certificate in Avian Wildlife Healthcare (Veterinary Nurses) is a unique programme for qualified veterinary nurses seeking specialised knowledge in treating avian wildlife. Delivered mainly online with a five-day practical placement at the Dunedin Wildlife Hospital, this course covers avian anatomy, physiology, supportive care, anaesthesia, diagnostic imaging, and management of wildlife diseases. Graduates will develop expertise in legal, ethical, and clinical aspects of avian healthcare, preparing them to respond to the increasing presentation of sick or injured birds in practice.
Course Content
- Avian wildlife health introduction and triage for veterinary nurses
- Legal and ethical frameworks in avian healthcare
- Avian anatomy, physiology, nutritional ecology, and husbandry
- Supportive veterinary nursing care for avian wildlife
- Avian wildlife anaesthesia: safe management and support
- Wildlife hospital practicum: clinical procedures and diagnostic imaging
- Development and reflection on nursing clinical skills in the avian wildlife context
- Diagnostic imaging methods and veterinary nurse's role
- Nursing care planning and management for avian wildlife diseases
What you need to know first
New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) or equivalent qualification
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Veterinary nursing
Wildlife care
Animal health
Future employment opportunities might be
Specialist veterinary nurse in avian wildlife healthcare
Veterinary nurse with advanced avian competencies
Work in wildlife hospitals or rehabilitation centres
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.