Veterinary Nursing Unitec Institute of Technology

Overview

The Veterinary Nursing degree at Unitec Institute of Technology provides a comprehensive pathway for students to advance their clinical expertise and professional knowledge. This programme focuses on developing high-level problem-solving skills and evidence-based practice within the animal healthcare sector.

During the first year, students focus on the essential foundations of animal care, combining theoretical learning with practical application in clinical settings. This initial phase ensures a strong understanding of animal husbandry and basic nursing protocols required for professional practice.

The second year allows learners to gain voluntary registration as veterinary nurses while deepening their medical knowledge.

Why Veterinary Nursing at Unitec Institute of Technology?

Students benefit from a varied learning approach that includes practical sessions, group work, and one-on-one supervision from experienced lecturers. The teaching staff are experts in fields such as microbiology, genetics, animal behaviour, and veterinary medicine.

The programme offers unique placement opportunities at prestigious organisations, including the New Zealand Centre for Conservation Medicine at Auckland Zoo. These partnerships provide students with exposure to best practices and the ethical implications of advanced veterinary care.

Facilities at the Mt Albert campus support a significant amount of clinical practice, allowing students to build advanced technical skills. The curriculum is designed to meet the evolving needs of the veterinary industry across Aotearoa.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 26415 per year
• National fee: NZD 8224 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

• Veterinary Nursing Practice
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Animal Husbandry and Behaviour
• Companion Animal Practicum I
• Anaesthesia and Analgesia
• Medical Nursing
• Surgery and Diagnostics
• Companion Animal Practicum II
• Animal Behaviour and Welfare
• Animal Husbandry

Year 2

• Anaesthesia Management and Emergencies
• Medical Nursing and Diagnostics
• Companion Animal Practicum III
• Surgical Nursing and Dentistry
• Imaging and Veterinary Nursing Services
• Companion Animal Practicum IV
• Research Methods
• Companion Animal Behaviour
• Animal Health and Welfare
• Captive Wild Animal Management
• Behavioural Ecology
• Vertebrate Physiology

Year 3

• Evidence-Based Veterinary Nursing
• One Health
• Negotiated Research
• Anthrozoology
• Applied Animal Behaviour Science
• Internship
• Advanced Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia
• Emergency Veterinary Nursing

Careers with Veterinary Nursing

Graduates are prepared for various leadership and technical roles within the animal health industry. Common career paths include working as a qualified veterinary nurse with the potential to advance into senior management positions.

Other opportunities include roles as a breeding centre manager or specialist nurse in emergency and critical care. The research skills gained also allow graduates to contribute to scientific advancements and policy development within veterinary medicine.