MA Veterinary Nursing – Small Animal

The Modern Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing (Small Animal) offers a work-based qualification with theory learning at college for student veterinary nurses wishing to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) with the RCVS. Applicants must be already employed to be eligible for this apprenticeship.

Location: Oatridge
Study mode:
Start date: September 2027
Duration: 2.5 years
Agency code: VNU1

how to apply

Course overview

Veterinary Practices please email [email protected] for more information on the programme and the application process.

This course combines on-campus learning and teaching with practical training within the employment veterinary practice to fully develop veterinary nursing skills.

Enables learners to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to support employment as a student veterinary nurse and develop a career in veterinary nursing of small animals. Knowledge covered in college teaching weeks is then supported by learning and assessment of associated practical skills in the workplace. Theory is examined with Lantra online MCQ examinations and a single written assignment. The final Lantra practical exam is external to college. College learning is blended with the majority on campus but some online lecturer led teaching.

Virtual Experience

Take a look around the SRUC Virtual Experience for lots of great student videos and examples of what it’s like to study our courses, along with campus and facility tours.

SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.

Entry requirements

You'll have a minimum 5 National 5s (A-C) including English, Maths and Science,

You must be employed as a student veterinary nurse in a RCVS Approved Training Practice

Veterinary Practices please email [email protected] for more information on the programme and the application process.

What you'll learn

The qualification will ensure you develop the skills and competence required to be able to work professionally using Day One Skills and Day One Competencies set by RCVS. The qualification focusses on veterinary nursing care of dogs, cats and rabbits.

Year 1- Units 1 and 2

Year 2 – Units 3 and 4

Year 3 – Unit 5

Units:

Veterinary Nursing in Practice ( includes animal husbandry, communication, daily practice, nursing care plans, models, clinics and facilitating home care, preparing for professional registration)
Application of veterinary Nursing A incorporating laboratory diagnostics.
Application of veterinary Nursing B incorporating supply of medicines
Application of veterinary Nursing C incorporating diagnostic imaging
Anaesthesia and Theatre Nursing

Student experience

Meet Laura Cochrane – She was delighted to start her Modern Apprenticeship studying the Diploma whilst working in her veterinary practice.

“Every day is a chance to further learn and develop my skills and knowledge as a veterinary nurse and I am extremely grateful to have mentors who support me.

A highlight for me is when I can apply the theory I have learned in college to my job in practice. I am proud of small achievements I have made in practice improving a patient’s welfare, health, function, or emotional experience.”

“Every day is a chance to further learn and develop my skills and knowledge as a veterinary nurse and I am extremely grateful to have mentors who support me."

Laura Cochrane

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for this course:

Detailed information about these fees can be found on our higher education fees page.

*Employers of Veterinary Nursing Modern Apprenticeship candidates will have to pay a £1,110 registration fee to cover enrolment and other external fees.

Funding available:

International students: you may be eligible for international student scholarships through SRUC. Learn more

MA Veterinary Nursing – Small Animal

how to apply

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