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Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in East Malling

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 East Malling. Classes run at Central College of Animal Studies Kent Centre, full-time over three years. You'll need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above (grades 4 to 9), including English Language, Maths and Science. The small animal veterinary nursing classes combine classroom theory, practical sessions, and clinical placement in an approved veterinary practice. You'll study animal anatomy and physiology, diagnostic imaging, theatre practice, and the operational side of a veterinary setting. On completion, you can register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons as a Registered Veterinary Nurse. Fees include assessment and exam costs; 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 during clinical placement years.
  • 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 foundational knowledge delivered in the classroom. From year two, clinical placement becomes central, developing your hands-on competence in a real veterinary environment. Assessment includes coursework, practical assessments, and exams. Assessment and exam fees are included in the course fees.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Central College of Animal Studies Kent Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN): work in small animal practice after RCVS registration.
  • Veterinary nurse: clinical care for animals in a veterinary surgery.
  • Veterinary receptionist: front-of-house role in a veterinary practice.
  • Animal nursing assistant: support role while working toward further qualifications.
  • Veterinary practice manager: operational management of a veterinary business.

What you could study next

  • Further qualifications in veterinary nursing: specialist postgraduate certificates are available through the RCVS in areas such as emergency and critical care, anaesthesia, or medicine.
  • BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing: some universities offer degree-level study for qualified RVNs looking to deepen their clinical knowledge or move into education and research roles.
Apply on ccoas.org.uk →
Apply now →

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