New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)

Become skilled in a rapidly changing profession and enjoy a rewarding career working with animals and their owners.

The New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) has been developed with input from industry. It is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge needed in an advanced and rapidly changing profession. The programme covers advanced medical and surgical nursing including suturing, in-house diagnostics, cytology, anaesthetic monitoring, surgical assistance, triage, dental hygiene, professional communication skills and the development of nursing services.

The New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) is an advanced study programme for students who have already completed the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Veterinary Nursing Assistant) (Level 5) or equivalent.

You'll learn through a mix of small group tutorials, full class discussions and clinical workshops.

Work placement forms a large part of the programme. You'll be required to source your own work placement in at least one high quality veterinary practice and to seek their support of your studies throughout the programme.

Please note: For part-time students, please advise us if you have a preference on which course you would like to complete first.

As places are limited on this programme we strongly recommend applying as soon as you know you wish to study with us.

New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology Level 5 with Veterinary Nursing Assistant Strand or equivalent

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace. Contact Ara for advice.

In addition you need to:

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart .

OR

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS test report form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?

You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.