New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal Veterinary Nursing)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 6 |
|---|
About the course
Overview
This 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 requirements
Domestic Entry Requirements
To 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 Requirements
In 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.
About the provider
UCOL in its many forms has been part of the community for more than a century. We are a proud example of a successful Institute of Technology and Polytechnic. We have a rich heritage and much to contribute to the future of vocational learning.
When you study with UCOL you’re much more than a number. We take the time to get to know you, to understand who you are. By sharing your strengths and what you want to achieve, we can truly help you get to where you want to be.
At UCOL, we’re here to support you all the way. Studying can be a challenge, we get that.
Study takes commitment, which, together with a learning style that suits you and the support you need, is a very powerful combination. At UCOL we encourage resilience and build self-confidence while you learn - providing our students with even greater opportunities.
As a student studying on or off campus, you can expect to learn skills and gain knowledge that sets you on your way. Gaining a qualification is a wonderful achievement that is earned, not given. We encourage you to stay in touch and make life-long learning a part of your journey. Ultimately, we want you to find your own place, whatever that may mean for you.
Our networks with local employers go beyond one-way exchanges, we value meaningful connections that are mutually beneficial. These relationships keep our education grounded, our programmes relevant, and job opportunities real. Our approach is truly collaborative.
UCOL graduates are well-rounded and possess the skills and values employers are looking for. They are valued members of their local community. With campuses in Palmerston North, Whanganui, Wairarapa and Horowhenua, and various delivery locations, we’re well known throughout the central and lower North Island.
Being close to our communities is a vital part of who we are. We strive to deepen connections and help our communities to grow and prosper. We aspire to build positive, meaningful relationships that benefit our students and graduates. That is why we exist.