Blended Delivery Learning

NZ Diploma in Veterinary Nursing

Level 6
Two Years Full Time

New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing

A two year full-time Level 6 programme of 240 credits

To study online blended learning, you will need to be self-motivated, committed and have excellent time management skills. You will need to travel to Auckland to complete block courses and exams.

Upon completion you will graduate as a veterinary nurse. You will be able to work in veterinary clinics, helping patients and owners on a daily basis. As a qualified veterinary nurse, you can really make a difference! NZ Diploma in Veterinary Nursing opens up many varied and exciting career options within the animal world, both in New Zealand and overseas.

2027 Programme Dates:
15th February 2027 to 19th November 2027

Semester 1: 15th February – 25th June 2027 (semester break 12th April – 23rd April)
Semester 2: 19th July 2027 – 19th November 2027 (semester break 27th September – 8th October)

Block course Dates:
14th June 2026 – 18th June 2027
8th November 2026 – 12th November 2027

Exam Week Dates:

21st June 2026 – 24th June 2027

15th November 2027 – 19th November 2027

What you need to know to consider if this style of learning is right for you.

To study online blended learning, you will need to be self-motivated, committed and have excellent time management skills.

You will need to attend all block courses, exams, practical assessments, work experience, as well as complete your self-directed study (research, reading, revision) and assessment writing.

You’ll also need to have consistent access to a computer with a reliable internet connection and appropriate office software i.e. Microsoft Office.

Learners need to take part in two compulsory five-day block courses throughout the year at one of the Vet Nurse Plus training centres in Auckland.

All learners will have access to Vet Nurse Plus Moodle Platform and Wisenet.

Teaching materials will be accessible to all learners on our Moodle Platform, along with Self Directed Learning (SDL).

Topics studied include:

Programme Content Summary
Topics and Credits – YEAR ONE

  • Professional Practice and Clinical Governance = 10 Credits
  • Anatomy and Physiology = 20 Credits
  • Animal Health and Behaviour = 25 Credits
  • Medical Veterinary Nursing = 20 Credits
  • Surgical Veterinary Nursing = 30 Credits
  • Microbiology and Diagnostic Procedures = 15 Credits

Total 120 Credits

Topics and Credits – YEAR TWO

  • Professional Practice and Clinical Governance = 15 Credits
  • Animal Health and Behaviour = 20 Credits
  • Medical Veterinary Nursing = 30 Credits
  • Surgical Veterinary Nursing = 30 Credits
  • Diagnostic Procedures = 25 Credits

Total 120 Credits

Graduate Profile:

All graduates of this qualification will be able to

  • Demonstrate professional practice in an animal healthcare setting.
  • Apply knowledge of animal functional anatomy and physiology to mage animal welfare.
  • Apply knowledge of husbandry and behaviour to mage the welfare of companion animals.
  • Provide medical and surgical nursing to support the welfare of companion animal patients.
  • Apply knowledge of veterinary diagnostic procedures to support the welfare of companion animal patients.

Entry Criteria

Minimum educational requirements of:

* 60 NCEA Level 2 credits including

* 12 credits English Level 2

* 12 credits Maths Level 1

* 12 credits relevant Science Level 1

OR Equivalent secondary or tertiary study [Level 4 or higher].

OR a satisfactory score on the Vet Nurse Plus pre-entry assessment.

English as a second language, preference will be given to candidates with an IELTS overall band score of 6.0 with no band score lower than 5.5 [or equivalent].

Selection Criteria

A formal interview will be held with candidates who are not currently studying with Vet Nurse Plus and can demonstrate meeting the entry criteria. All applicants will be selected from a range of criteria.

Applicants will need to complete a self-declaration of criminal convictions, and sign a consent form allowing Vet Nurse Plus to obtain a Ministry of Justice criminal conviction history.

Applicants will also complete a medical health form.

Contact us if you have any questions on 0800 VET NURSE