Veterinary Nursing

Veterinary Nursing overview 

With more than 4,000 veterinary practices across the UK and strong demand for qualified staff, it’s a great time to enter this rewarding profession.  

Before you apply: both courses require a placement at an RCVS-approved veterinary practice before you start. If you can’t secure one, we may be able to offer you a place on our Animal Care courses instead. 

View all Veterinary Nursing courses by visiting the course finder.

What you'll study

Your course blends essential theory with extensive clinical practice to prepare you for real veterinary work. You’ll cover: 

• animal health, care and clinical handling
• veterinary anatomy, physiology and medical terminology
• diagnostic imaging, radiography and laboratory skills
• anaesthesia, analgesia and surgical nursing
• infection control and hygiene
• wound care and post-operative recovery
• client communication and professional conduct
• veterinary legislation, ethics and animal welfare 

You’ll develop the knowledge and technical skill to support animals in a range of clinical settings. 

Our veterinary nursing facilities

You’ll train in professional clinical environments that reflect real veterinary practice, with access to: 

• a dedicated vet nursing suite
• X-ray and diagnostic imaging equipment
• anaesthesia machines and monitoring tools
• a mock theatre and surgical preparation area
• specialist clinical models and training equipment
• our multi-million-pound Small Animal Care Centre, home to over 70 species
• 22-bay dog kennels and a commercial grooming salon 

Learning beyond the classroom

To help you develop the professional behaviours and confidence expected in modern clinical settings, you’ll also get involved in: 

• block placements in approved veterinary practices, with time in theatre, consulting, diagnostics, inpatient care and laboratories
• enrichment activities and visits
• workshops with practising veterinary professionals
• one-to-one support from qualified lecturers
• specialist careers guidance to help plan your next steps 

Where it could lead

After Level 2, you can work as a veterinary care assistant or progress to our Level 3 Veterinary Nursing course. Level 3 prepares you to work as a veterinary nurse in small animal practice. 

Fees & funding

Course fees vary by level. Full-time courses are free for 16 to 18-year-olds. Adult students may also be eligible for funding depending on circumstances. 

To find out more, check our Course Fees & Funding page.