Diploma
Developed in consultation with industry, this progamme has been designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge needed for an advanced and rapidly changing profession.
You'll acquire detailed, up-to-date theoretical knowledge of companion animal healthcare and learn how to make independent nursing decisions to deliver quality care to animal patients. Areas covered include advanced medical and surgical nursing, in-house diagnostics, anaesthetic monitoring, surgical assistance, triage, dental hygiene, professional communication skills and the development of nursing services.
You'll learn through a mix of small group tutorials, full class discussions and clinical workshops. Work-based learning is a significant component of the programme. You'll be required to source your own work placements in a high-quality veterinary practice that's willing to support your studies. We recommend you aim to work in at least two clinics in order to broaden your skills, and to exceed the minimum 750-hour requirement to ensure the best application of new knowledge. Your work placement provide may pay you for the hours you work.
This diploma will give you the skills and knowledge required for a successful career as a professional veterinary nurse. It aligns with international standards for veterinary nursing; successful completion will enable you to meet the educational standards for entrance to the NZVNA/Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council's voluntary register where you'll be able to use the title of Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). As an RVN you'll be able to practice independently in all areas of a veterinary clinic where direct veterinary supervision is not required.
There is always strong demand for qualified people to work within the veterinary and animal-related industries and, with this professional qualification, your expertise will be sought after. Employment opportunities are diverse and could include working as a veterinary nurse, veterinary nursing supervisor, veterinary practice management, industry representative for a veterinary wholesale company, in education (with additional training).