Diploma in Veterinary Nursing
Earn while you learn
Train to be a veterinary nurse with Central College of Animal Studies and benefit from practical training throughout your course while earning. Our course design means that it is possible to qualify as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) debt free.
Successful completion of the course leads to registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) as a Registered Veterinary Nurse.
Our unique courses are delivered by qualified professionals in small classes, so that students have a high level of support. We aim to prepare students for successful careers in veterinary nursing.
The key aims are:
- to give students the ability to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to practice veterinary nursing, safely and competently
- to allow students to grow as individuals and give them the chance to learn life skills essential for professional development
The courses all include a balance of practice-based learning and theoretical teaching and use a variety of strategies to ensure students can undertake tasks proficiently.
As part of our full time programme, we provide clinical rotation in veterinary training practices which allow students to become competent and confident in a veterinary environment.
Our part-time programme is for those who are already working or have a placement in an approved veterinary practice.
We offer courses in veterinary nursing over 2, 3 or 4 years, depending on previous qualifications and experience.
How is the course assessed?
The awarding body for our veterinary nursing programmes is Central Qualifications.
Assesment is through assignments, examinations and clinical skills exams. You will also be required to compile an online nursing progress log, Central Skills Log (CSL), which will be monitored by your workplace clinical coach.
What are the entry requirements?
A minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C and above (4-9), including English, Mathematics and a Science subject. If you do not meet these requirements please contact us for advice. We will also expect you to have had some relevant animal handling work experience, ideally in a veterinary setting leading to a reference from a vet or a veterinary nurse.
What qualification will I achieve at the end of my course?
On successful completion of your course you will achieve the CQ Diploma in Veterinary Nursing and you will be awarded the post-nominal letters DipVN. This enables you to register with the RCVS as a veterinary nurse and become an RVN.
What are the progression opportunities?
Once qualified and registered, you will be in a position to work as a qualified veterinary nurse in practice. You may also consider progressing onto senior and head nurse positions or specialise in one or more area of veterinary nursing. There are also advanced veterinary nursing courses you may wish to consider.
Apply for the Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Small Animal
Click here to download an application form. Please email completed applications to enquiries@ccoas.org.uk or send by post to: Central College of Animal Studies, Elmtree Business Park, Elmswell, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP30 9HR.
