Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Universal College of LearningNew Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
2 years
Next start date
Expected Jul 2027
Campus
Palmerston North Campus
Summary
OverviewThis diploma is designed for people who want to work directly with companion animals and become confident, capable veterinary nursing professionals. You’ll build strong clinical skills while learning how to care for dogs, cats, and other companion animals through every stage of their health journey.
You’ll get hands‑on experience assisting with surgeries, supporting anaesthesia and patient monitoring, performing diagnostic tests, and providing compassionate medical nursing care.
You’ll also learn how to communicate effectively with clients, support animal welfare, and work as part of a dedicated veterinary team.
Supported by our experienced tutors and real‑world training environments, you’ll graduate with the skills and confidence to step into the industry to help companion animals attain, maintain or recover health and quality of life.
Entry criteria
Domestic Entry RequirementsTo be admitted to this programme, applicants must meet the following academic admission requirements:
NCEA Level 2 or higher including a minimum of:
- 12 credits in English at Level 2 or higher
- 12 credits in Mathematics at Level 1 or higher
- 12 credits of relevant science (preferably Biology) at Level 1 or higher
OR
this qualification may build on the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4) with strands in Companion Animal Healthcare, Equine Healthcare and Rural Animal Healthcare; or the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) with strands in Canine Behaviour and Training; Companion Animals; Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles; Pet Grooming, and Zookeeping; or the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care with strands in Companion Animal, Equine, and Rural Animals (Level 3)
OR
A recognised equivalent.
In addition to meeting the requirements for admission, all applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction to ensure fitness to practice prior to acceptance into the programme.
Note: Convictions of any offence and/or declaration of health conditions will not necessarily exclude applicants from enrolment. Any decision is made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the delegated authority.
Applicants for whom English or te reo Māori is not a first language are required to provide proof of English proficiency.
International Entry RequirementsIn addition to the Domestic Entry Requirements, the following applies to international student applicants.
English language proficiency
International students for whom English or te reo Māori is not a first language will need to provide evidence that they have an IELTS score of 6.0 (general or academic) with no individual band lower than 5.5 from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules.
Under 20 years of age
In addition to this, international applicants under 20 years of age must have NCEA equivalency.
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