Veterinary nurse training is conducted through colleges and universities that offer qualifications approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and their linked veterinary practices.

There are two routes for training as a veterinary nurse either in Further Education with the level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing or Higher Education with either an FdSc or BSc degree programme. There is also the option of either training with small animals or horses.

Further Education (FE)

The Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing is a vocational qualification. This approach is often completed whilst you are employed by a veterinary training practice and suits practically minded people.

A list of practices that can train veterinary nurses is on the RCVS website: RCVS Approved Training Practices

The following organisations provide further education : RCVS Further Education Approved Delivery Centres

Higher Education (HE)

You can complete a degree course where you are in full time education and attend placement in veterinary practices. This can take between three and four years depending on the type of course you choose.

You will need to meet minimum entry requirements for the university and you will need to apply via UCAS.

There is a list of universities offering VN courses on the RCVS website: RCVS list of accredited higher education courses