About the course

The Level 3 Veterinary Nursing course is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to enter onto the register of qualified small animal veterinary nurses.

This comprehensive program covers a wide range of topics, including animal anatomy and physiology, diagnostic techniques, surgical nursing, anaesthesia, and patient care covering the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) day one skills, competencies and professional behaviours for veterinary nurses.

Students will gain hands-on experience through clinical placements, working alongside qualified veterinary professionals in real-world settings. The veterinary nursing centre on campus offers a fully equipped clinical skills suite which includes consultation rooms, operating theatre, imaging suite, inpatient wards and laboratory. Students will also have use of the animal academy with a variety of species to enhance their practical training.

The course is delivered through innovative teaching and learning strategies from a skilled team of experienced veterinary nurses using Vet Skill as the awarding body. There is a total of 6 MCQ examinations, 3 assignments, 1 formative practical skills assessment and an online portfolio to complete before moving towards the final end point and licence to practice assessments. Further assessment information can be found within this page.

By the end of the course, students will be prepared to sit the RCVS licence to practice practical examination to allow entry onto the register. Veterinary Nurses are registered professionals and work within the standards and scope of practice defined by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).

This course is ideal for those passionate about animal care and looking to pursue a rewarding career in veterinary nursing to provide high-quality care to a variety of animals, ensuring their health and well-being in adherence with clinical and professional standards.

Please double check the entry criteria and additional requirements before applying

Block Release:

• Year 1 - 4 x 2 week blocks and 4 day week at the end of the course (43 days total)
• Year 2 - 4 x 2 week blocks and 4 day week at the end of the course (43 days total) - Note this may change as year 2 has not yet run

Day Release:

• Year 1 - 1 day per week for 38 weeks, 1 week block (43 days)
• Year 2 - 1 day per week for 38 weeks, 1 week block (43 days)