Course details

±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6)
NZQF Level 6

About the course

The animal care industry is growing fast. This has led to more demand for skilled veterinary nurses in clinics and animal care centres. Vet nurses play a crucial role in assessing, and caring for a diverse range of animals, working closely with veterinaries to ensure optimal health and welfare for animals. This course equips you with essential skills and knowledge in both surgical and medical veterinary nursing. You'll also gain expertise in diagnostic sampling and medical imaging. Upon completion, you'll meet the criteria required for entry into the NZVNA/Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council. This will allow you to use the title of Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). If you completed the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) in 2024, you are eligible to enrol in the ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) at Otago Polytechnic in 2025.

Entry requirements

To be admitted to this course, applicants must hold one of the following: 

You must have the pre-requisite qualification ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) (Veterinary Nursing Assistant) OR equivalent. NCEA Level 2 or higher including: 

a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in English at Level 2;  a minimum of 12 NCEA credits in Mathematics at Level 1;  and a minimum of 12 credits of relevant science at Level 1 OR  a relevant qualification at NZQF Level 3 or above; OR A recognised equivalent.

All applicants must complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction to ensure fitness to practice prior to acceptance into the course. Special and discretionary admission is also available.

About the provider

Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology is the largest tertiary provider in the Bay of Plenty and the third largest institute of technology in ±¬×ߺÚÁÏ. We are home to more than 14,000 students, more than 1,000 staff, and we offer more than 150 study options ranging from certificate to post-graduate level.