COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing programme is structured to develop competent, reflective and professionally registered veterinary nurses through a combination of academic study, clinical training and workplace experience. In Year 1, students establish core knowledge in anatomy and physiology, companion animal management, nursing care of veterinary patients, clinical and communication skills, and professional development, alongside an introduction to evidence-based veterinary nursing and digital skills. Early modules also introduce professional registration requirements, ensuring alignment with Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) standards from the outset. In Year 2, learning becomes more clinically applied, covering diagnostic techniques, medical nursing with medicines, anaesthesia and theatre practice, research skills, and animal behaviour and welfare for veterinary nurses. Students also continue progressing through professional registration requirements, while optional modules such as feline friendly practice and wildlife care allow early specialisation. A placement year provides essential hands-on experience in veterinary settings, enabling students to consolidate practical skills and clinical confidence. In the final year, students complete a dissertation alongside modules in collaborative problem solving, diagnosis and treatment of behavioural problems, and clinical specialisms in veterinary nursing. Optional pathways include equine, exotic, farm animal nursing, and complementary therapy. Overall, the programme prepares graduates for RCVS registration and professional veterinary nursing practice.