We’re delighted to announce the launch of our new Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Practice Nurse).
Accredited by VetSkill, this 12-18 month programme will offer veterinary nurses the opportunity to advance their knowledge and skills in practice nursing to a mastery level, building on The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Day One Skills and Competences learned during formal training.
If you’re a veterinary nurse looking for a way to progress in your career, why not set yourself a new challenge? Here, we’re exploring how the programme works and who it’s for, as well as explaining the many benefits and new opportunities it could you bring to your professional life…
How does the programme work?
Registered Veterinary Nurses who study with us will complete online learning through our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). In addition, there will be a portfolio of practical skills to complete in practice, where you will collect evidence of competency of skills. A mentor in practice will be required to help support with collecting of evidence. Once you have completed all of your theoretical learning, there will be an allocated centre attended session to go through the practical elements of the course.
The comprehensive syllabus is designed to provide veterinary nurses with a thorough understanding of advanced veterinary nursing practices, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers. The programme will see students studying advanced professional practice and legislation, consulting skills, nutrition and diet, medical clinics, prescribing and dispensing, coaching, mentoring and support and practical practice nurse skills. Throughout the programme you will have the opportunity to explore best practices and critically compare current veterinary nursing processes, through evidence-based nursing and research.
Course materials will be supplied via our online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and you will be supported through the course, with monthly drop-in sessions, regular tutorials and 1-2-1 meetings available to offer advice and guidance.
Assessment methods vary and includes completing a practical skills portfolio, an assignment, three practical case reports, a written examination assessing the six theory units of the qualification, one long case practical scenario and a practical discussion.
Do I meet the entry requirements?
Applicants must be registered with the RCVS as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN), or hold internationally equivalent qualifications and registration. We would recommend a minimum of 12 months of professional experience as an RVN prior to application.
You should also be employed in, or have agreed access to a placement in, a suitable veterinary practice; as well as have a mentor agreed in practice who is a veterinary surgeon, or an RVN who holds an appropriate qualification at level 5 or above.
Why study an advanced veterinary nursing diploma?
On completion of this advanced veterinary nursing qualification, you will be able to work to a ‘mastery’ level in practice and consulting environments, and provide an advanced standard of clinical care and customer service to both patients and clients.
This course is ideal for individuals looking to advance their careers in veterinary nursing, the course places a strong emphasis on professional development, helping you develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills required for success in the veterinary nursing profession. With an advanced diploma in hand, you could…
Deepen your professional knowledge and skills
Studying an advanced qualification provides you with an opportunity to deepen your understanding of veterinary nursing. This advanced knowledge can enable you to contribute more effectively to clinical decision-making, and handle complex cases with greater confidence.
Boost your job prospects and earning potential
Achieving an advanced qualification could help you stand out when applying for leadership opportunities in practice, such as leading a team as a head nurse, mentoring students as a clinical supervisor. These positions not only come with greater responsibilities but also the potential for higher salaries and job satisfaction, reflecting the value of advanced qualifications in the workplace.
Pave the way to higher study
Completing an advanced qualification can inspire further professional development or specialisation in the future, and is a natural stepping stone for those who aspire to study at the highest academic level in the future, for example by achieving a degree, Masters or PhD.
Advance your personal and professional growth
Studying at an advanced level will help you gain a broader, evidence-based perspective on veterinary nursing care. Not only this, the sense of accomplishment from completing an advanced qualification can also boost your confidence in your abilities and potential.
Want to find out more? Contact us
The Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Practice Nurse) is open for applications now, and you can start at any time. You can apply online on our website.
If undertaking an advanced veterinary nursing qualification is something you are thinking about, but would like to talk through your options, please don’t hesitate to speak to one of our Client Advisors. They are here to help and make sure that you choose the course that is right for you. You can reach us by calling 01480 422060 or by requesting a call back, emailing admin@caw.ac.uk or starting a live chat on our website.