Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Otago PolytechnicBachelor of Veterinary Nursing (third year)
Level of Study
Bachelor's Degree
Summary
About the programmeFor the first time in the South Island, and in collaboration with the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), we are now offering the third year of this qualification online.
Otago Polytechnic Veterinary Nursing learners can now pathway through our Level 5 Certificate during year one, the Level 6 Diplomaduring year two and then move into this EIT qualification to complete their degree-level Veterinary Nursing study.
Become an essential part of a veterinary team in a clinic or hospital and provide surgical and medical veterinary nursing, manage services and perform diagnostic sampling and medical imaging.
The Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing programme will produce degree-level veterinary nurses capable of applying advanced subject-specific knowledge and skills, critical thinking, problem-solving and reflection, who place animal welfare at the forefront of their evidence-based practice.
Please note: You will apply for this degree with EIT and be enrolled as an EIT learner but will study online with some face-to-face teaching.
*We are currently seeking approval to offer the third year of Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing at Otago Polytechnic from 2026. If approved, this would allow students to complete the full degree here at OP (the two-year Level 6 Diploma, followed by the final year of the degree).*Please visit op.ac.nz/study/veterinary-nursing or contact animalhealth@op.ac.nz for the latest on
this proposed pathway.
We know full-time study isn't always possible. We also offer this part-time over two years.
Entry criteria
Entry Entry requirements- New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
- If you hold the National Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, EIT will assess this on a case-by-case basis.
All applicants must demonstrate an acceptable level of English language fluency prior to acceptance in the programme. For international students, ways in which English language fluency may be demonstrated include the following:
- successful study of a programme in which English was the language of instruction (subject to the conditions in EIT's Database for English Language Proficiency (DELP))
- completion of a New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Level 3) - with any endorsement
- IELTS Academic score of 6, (academic, no band score lower than 5.5), achieved in a single test within the two years preceding enrolment
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for internationally recognised proficiency tests and proficiency outcomes for international students).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer awide range of English programmes.
Please note: International students will need to attend weekly tutorials at the EIT campus in Hawke’s Bay
Disclaimer