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Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in Ipswich

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 Ipswich. Classes run at Central College of Animal Studies Suffolk 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 covers animal anatomy and physiology, diagnostic imaging, theatre practice, and the operational requirements of a veterinary practice. You'll also complete clinical placements in approved veterinary training practices. The small animal veterinary nursing classes run over three years and combine theory, practical sessions, and practice-based learning. 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 veterinary settings.
  • You'll develop theatre preparation and practice skills.
  • You'll understand the operational requirements of a veterinary practice.
  • You'll build professional ethics and client communication skills.
  • You'll gain hands-on experience through clinical placements in approved veterinary practices.

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom theory sessions, practical skills training, and practice-based learning in approved veterinary training practices. The first year focuses on foundational knowledge and theory. From year two, you move into clinical years where professional skills and ethics are developed further. Assessment includes both theoretical and practical elements, with exam fees covered in your course fees.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Central College of Animal Studies Suffolk 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: provide clinical care and support to vets in practice.
  • Veterinary Receptionist: patient-facing role drawing on practice knowledge.
  • Animal Care Assistant: support role in veterinary or rescue settings.
  • Veterinary Theatre Nurse: specialist surgical support in veterinary clinics.

What you could study next

  • Further qualifications in veterinary nursing: specialist certificates offered by the RCVS in areas such as emergency and critical care, anaesthesia, or dentistry.
  • BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing: degree-level study for those wanting to deepen clinical knowledge or move into teaching and research.
  • Practice management qualifications: for those looking to take on leadership or business roles within a veterinary practice.
Apply on ccoas.org.uk →
Apply now →

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