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.
This new, two-year, full-time programme will equip you with the technical knowledge and skills to work as a veterinary nurse in a clinical veterinary setting.
You’ll learn through a mix of small group tutorials, full class discussions and clinical workshops. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) is a significant component of the programme. You’ll be required to source your own work placements in high-quality veterinary practices that are willing to support your studies. We strongly recommend you aim to work in at least two clinics to broaden your skills.
At the completion of the programme, you’ll have a high level of responsibility and discretion within your scope of practice, in a wide range of dynamic and often unpredictable situations and following protocols in all aspects of clinical veterinary practice or animal healthcare settings.
With this qualification, you may be eligible to apply for registration with the Allied Veterinary Professional Regulatory Council of New Zealand.
Please note:
- A minimum of 750 hours of WIL is required over the two years (250 hours in Year 1, 500 hours in Year 2).
- You must complete all courses within Year 1 to be accepted into Year 2.
Fees for 2025
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
OR New Zealand Certificate in Animal Healthcare Assisting (Level 4) with strands in Companion Animal Healthcare, Equine Healthcare and Rural Animal Healthcare [Ref: 4388];
OR New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management (Level 4) with strands in Canine Behaviour and Training; Companion Animals; Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles; Pet Grooming, and Zookeeping [Ref: 2489];
OR New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care with strands in Companion Animal, Equine, and Rural Animals (Level 3) [Ref: 2487]
In addition you need to:
- Complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction to ensure fitness to practice prior to acceptance into the programme
Applicants who are unable to evidence that they meet Academic entry requirements, but who can demonstrate acquired skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, may be approved for 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.
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.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- 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.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
This programme fulfils the educational requirements for you to become a Listed Veterinary Nursing Assistant (LVNA) with the New Zealand Veterinary Nurses Association. It will equip you with the skills and knowledge required for a successful career (here or overseas) in companion animal healthcare, assisting vets and vet nurses in clinical environments. You could also apply your skills in an animal shelter, as an animal health co-ordinator or feline isolation attendant.
Study pathways
After successfully completing this programme, you can continue your studies with the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing.
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.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ4389 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 240 |
| Level | 6 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ4389-COPA |
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to:
- Complete a health declaration and declaration of any criminal conviction to ensure fitness to practice prior to acceptance into the programme
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
- Veterinary Nursing (Level 6) Additional Requirements Form PDF, 73 KB
Area of Interest
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