New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
Course details
About the course
About the programme
If you want to be a Veterinary Nurse, this new pathway is the one for you.
We currently offer this two-year programme with a Companion Animal focus and 750 hours of practicum, including work placement.
You’ll graduate with the technical knowledge and skills required and will have a high level of responsibility, allowing you to thrive in a wide range of dynamic veterinary settings.
You’ll be able to apply for registration on the New Zealand Register of Veterinary Nurses.
Career options are a Companion Animal Veterinary Nurse or Animal Research Technician. To widen your career options, you could study the third year of the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing at the end of this programme.
Note: If you already hold the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) (Veterinary Nursing Assistant), the National Certificate in Veterinary Nursing, or have completed some of a New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, and want to complete your veterinary nursing diploma, please apply for this programme and we will be in touch to discuss your pathway.
Entry requirements
Entry
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
- NCEA Level 2 or higher including:
- a minimum of 12 credits in English at Level 2 or higher, and
- a minimum of 12 credits in Maths at Level 1 or higher, and
- a minimum of 12 credits of relevant Science (preferably Biology) at Level 1 or higher.
- Or New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care (Level 3), New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4), or New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4).
- Or a recognised equivalent.
Special and Discretionary Admission
- If you are 20 or above and do not meet the entry requirements, you are eligible for Special Admission.
- If you're under 20 and do not meet the entry requirements, you may be eligible for Discretionary Admission.
- In both instances, we'll work through what that means with you to make sure you're ready for this programme.
Additional requirements
All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction to ensure fitness to practice before we accept you into this programme.
Please note: Convictions of any offence and/or declaration of health conditions will not necessarily exclude you from being able to do this programme. Any decision is made on a case-by-case basis.
English Language Requirements
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall Academic IELTS 6.0 with no individual band score lower than 5.5 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
- 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 a wide range of English programmes.
About the provider
If you want to get a job and build a great career, Otago Polytechnic is a smart choice.
We’re known for offering the highest quality, hands-on training that helps students succeed. Our graduates are confident, skilled, and ready to work from day one. And, employers love that.
We’ve earned the highest ratings from the New Zealand Government for our teaching and support. Our flexible study options make it easier for you to learn in a way that suits your life.
At Otago Polytechnic, you’ll gain practical skills, real-world experience, and the confidence to make a real impact - in your career and in your community.