COURSE CURRICULUM

The veterinary nursing program is structured to provide students with the essential knowledge and skills required for professional practice across different species, combining theoretical learning with hands-on clinical experience.In the Foundation Year, students begin by learning the fundamentals of veterinary nursing, animal health, disease, and welfare in the "Fundamentals of Veterinary Nursing" module. The "Introduction to Animal Science" module covers key concepts in animal anatomy and physiology, while "Applied Research" introduces students to the basics of research in the field. Additionally, the "Essentials for Learning" module prepares students for the academic demands of the program by focusing on essential study skills, including English, mathematics, and ICT.The first year of study deepens students' understanding of animal body systems, including the gastrointestinal and integument systems. Through the "Professional Development - Legal & Professional" module, students gain an understanding of the legal and professional aspects of veterinary nursing. "Fundamentals of Working in a Veterinary Environment" equips students with the necessary health, safety, and clinical skills for their first practice placement. The "Practical Veterinary Nursing - Placement & Clinical Skills" module allows students to apply their learning in a veterinary environment.In year two, students explore the urogenital and musculoskeletal systems, alongside theatre practice and radiography. The "Professional Development - Evidence-based Veterinary Nursing, Communication & Ethics" module helps students refine their communication skills, using evidence to support problem-solving and decision-making. The practical skills required for veterinary practice placements are further developed in the "Practical Veterinary Nursing" module.Year three introduces more advanced concepts such as neurology, anaesthesia, and cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The "Professional Development - Leadership Skills, Wellbeing, Minor Surgical Procedures" module focuses on developing leadership and surgical skills. Students also gain further clinical experience through "Practical Veterinary Nursing - Placement & Clinical Skills."In the final year, students gain the skills needed to become a Companion Animal Suitably Qualified Person (C-SQP) in the "Contemporary Veterinary Nursing" module. The "Professional Development - Quality Improvement Project Proposal" module challenges students to apply their learning by developing a project aimed at improving veterinary patient care. The "Practical Veterinary Nursing" module continues to offer students hands-on clinical experience to prepare them for professional practice.This structured program ensures that students are well-equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to succeed as competent and confident veterinary nurses.