Veterinary Nursing (Small Animal) Level 3 Work-based Diploma SCQF 7
What is special about this course?
This Lantra qualification suits those who wish to qualify and register with the RCVS as a Registered Veterinary Nurse. It provides an opportunity to achieve a recognised national qualification that reflects the national and regulatory standards required for this role. The qualification is designed to enable learners to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to support their role, and develop their career in veterinary nursing of small animals. you will engage in work-based learning through your placement at a veterinary practice, where you'll gain hands-on experience and apply your learning in a real-world setting. You'll also participate in online college classes, delivered through timetabled sessions in a virtual classroom, and take part in face-to-face practical sessions at the Rural Studies Centre in Halkirk, for expert practical tuition from our experienced Registered Veterinary Nurses.
Entry requirements
- Applicants should be at least 16 years of age with a reasonably high standard of physical fitness
- Have Maths, English, a science subject and two other qualifications at:
- GCSE Grades A-C OR
- Scottish Intermediate 2 C or above OR
- National 5 or above OR
- a Standard Grade at level 1 or 2 or above
OR
- Satisfactory completion of Level 2 Diploma VCA at Merit Grade or above and evidence of Maths and English at National 5 Grade A-C or above.
- Applicants must have recent work experience of at least 10 days in a small animal veterinary practice working alongside Registered Veterinary Nurses
- Satisfactory interview
Placement in an approved training practice is required to undertake the course. Assistance will be given to successful applicants looking to secure a placement.
Learners undertaking this qualification will develop the knowledge and skills required for veterinary nursing of small animals, focusing on dogs, cats, and rabbits.
Qualification Overview
This qualification assesses learners' knowledge and understanding of:
- Animal husbandry and welfare
- Communication and working relationships
- Daily practice – including teamwork, health and safety, stock and waste management, and record keeping
- Nursing care plans – models, clinics, and home care
- Preparing for professional registration
Veterinary anatomy and physiology, including:
- Cell structure
- Central nervous system and associated nursing
- Musculoskeletal system and associated nursing
- Circulatory system and associated nursing
- Urinary system and associated nursing
- Respiratory system and associated nursing
- Digestive system, nutrition, and feeding
- Reproductive system and associated nursing
- Endocrine system and associated nursing
Clinical skills, including:
- Infection control, disinfection, and sterilisation
- Laboratory diagnostics
- Skin, wound care, and bandaging
- Body fluids, homeostasis, and fluid therapy
- Medicines and dispensary management
- First aid, emergency, and critical care nursing
- Pain management
- Diagnostic imaging
- Anaesthesia
- Operating theatre management and nursing care
How will I study my course?
- Full Time
- Work based
This course blends online learning with hands-on practical experience to prepare you for a career in the field.
- Timetabled learning takes place online through scheduled classes delivered by a lecturer in a virtual classroom in Microsoft Teams. You'll use our virtual learning environment to access resources, complete assessments, and chat with your lecturer and classmates.
- Practical teaching takes place at the Rural Studies Centre, Halkirk, where you will participate in practical sessions using our veterinary nursing suite and equipment. These sessions are a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience and meet your lecturers and classmates in person.
- Practice placement runs for 52 weeks across the 2.5-year course, where you'll gain hands-on experience in a small animal veterinary practice, working under the supervision of qualified veterinary professionals. This provides valuable real-world experience and application of your learning.
How long will my course last?
The course will take 2.5 years to complete
Course Breakdown
Year 1
- 8 weeks of college classes (including 1 week at the Rural Studies Centre)
- 26 weeks of practice placement
- 3 directed study weeks
Year 2
- 12 weeks of college classes (including 3 weeks at the Rural Studies Centre)
- 26 weeks of practice placement
- 3 directed study weeks
Year 3
- 1 week of college classes
Where can I study my course?
- Halkirk
- Employers Premises
Start date
September
Fees
Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.
What can I do on completion of my course?
The Veterinary Nursing qualification is a well-respected qualification, opening various career avenues. Our graduates find jobs readily in veterinary practice once qualified. However, there are also a number of alternative employment options for RVN’s available including zoos, veterinary nursing in the forces, veterinary pharmaceutical companies and lecturing.
Is there more information available online?
You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.
Applications are currently closed for this course. If you would like to register your interest to be notified of our applications opening for September 2026, please complete this registration form.
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.