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Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in Exeter

Cost£20,250.00
Duration36 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCQ
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About this course

Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in Exeter. Classes run at Exeter Centre, full-time during the day. To enrol, you'll need at least five GCSEs at grade C or above (grades 4 to 9), including English Language, Maths and Science. The course runs over three years and combines classroom teaching, practical sessions, and clinical placement in an approved veterinary practice. You'll cover animal anatomy and physiology, diagnostic imaging, theatre practice, and the operational side of a veterinary setting. On completion, you can apply to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). Fees include assessments and exam fees; RCVS registration fees are separate.

Who this course is for

On successful completion of this course CQ awards the DipVN ( Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Small Animal Practice) leading to registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons ( RCVS) as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

These programmes are designed to give students the ability to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to practice veterinary nursing, safely and competently. In addition, students will grow as individuals and get the chance to learn life skills essential for professional development.

The programmes include a balance of practice-based learning and theoretical teaching and use a variety of strategies to ensure students can undertake tasks proficiently. Clinical placement in veterinary training practices will allow students to become competent and confident in a veterinary environment.

Entry requirements

Students must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C and above (4-9), including English Language, Mathematics and Science.

In our experience, students benefit from having previously studied to a higher level.

What you will learn

  • You'll study animal anatomy and physiology relevant to small animal practice.
  • You'll learn diagnostic imaging techniques used in a veterinary setting.
  • You'll develop theatre preparation and practice skills.
  • You'll understand the operational requirements of a veterinary practice.
  • You'll build professional ethics and skills through clinical placement in an approved practice.
  • You'll prepare for professional relationships within a veterinary team.

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom theory, practical sessions, and practice-based training in an approved veterinary practice. The first year focuses on theoretical foundations. From year two onward, clinical placement develops your hands-on skills and professional competence. You'll be assessed through a mix of theory and practical assessments, with exam fees included in your course fees.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Exeter Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN): work in small animal practices after RCVS registration.
  • Veterinary nurse: day-to-day clinical care in a veterinary setting.
  • Theatre nurse (veterinary): assist with surgical procedures and preparation.
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role using your practice knowledge.
  • Veterinary practice manager: operational management with further experience.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing: a degree-level route for those wanting to deepen clinical knowledge or move into research and education.
  • RCVS Advanced Practitioner status: a post-registration route for experienced RVNs specialising in areas such as anaesthesia, emergency care, or medicine.
  • Veterinary practice management qualifications: for RVNs moving into leadership or business roles within a practice.
Apply on ccoas.org.uk →
Apply now →

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