Veterinary science - VET study in veterinary science
VET study in veterinary science
Careers for veterinary science VET graduates
VET courses in veterinary science equip students to work as veterinary nurses in veterinary practices and a variety of other work settings, which may include animals shelters or rescue centres.
A vet nurse’s duties may include veterinary medical nursing and veterinary surgical nursing, reception and administration tasks, cleaning duties, technical maintenance, animal care, veterinary clinical pathology and radiographic procedures, and anaesthetic nursing.
Courses and specialisations
Courses in veterinary nursing are offered at certificate IV and diploma level. Courses are designed to offer animal lovers the skills and proficiency they need to become veterinary nurses. They should provide the knowledge and both technical and practical skills required for the care and nursing of animals in veterinary practices, and a variety of other work situations. Qualified vet nurses have the option of furthering their studies and specialising in particular areas (see below for some of the areas available).
Specialisations
●Dental ●Emergency or critical care ●Surgical
Entry to the diploma courses in these specialist areas requires the completion of the general Certificate IV in Vet Nursing and employment in a veterinary clinic with a relevant specialist.
Which course is for you?
Considering the reasonably limited range of VET courses available in this field, it will pay to do your research and thoroughly check out the subject offerings and potential career outcomes of any courses you’re considering.
Look into the facilities and equipment on offer, and be sure that the course you choose includes plenty of opportunity for practical work.
Getting in
Entry to VET courses in veterinary nursing vary depending on the course provider. Some courses may require Year 11 or 12 along with certain prerequisite units from Certificate II in Animal Studies, as well as access to a veterinary clinic for work placement, while other courses require completion of Year 10 and paid employment in a veterinary clinic for a set minimum number of hours per week.
It pays to do your research and look into the differing entrance requirements at different institutions.
Where to study
VET courses in veterinary science can be found throughout the country, except in Tasmania and the Northern Territory. As is the case for many other fields of study, New South Wales and Victoria offer the biggest choice, with courses being offered at a variety of campuses.
What to look for
Facilities and equipment are an important aspect of this field of study. You should look for courses that can offer the latest equipment and the best facilities.
Vocational experience is also particularly important, so ensure you will get plenty of on-the-job practice while you study.
Pathways
Courses in veterinary nursing can lead to further VET study. Qualified vet nurses may be able to go on and complete additional courses in the same area. Those who have successfully completed the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing and who are employed in a veterinary clinic can go on to specialise in dental, emergency / critical care, or surgical veterinary nursing though the limited number of diploma courses available in these areas.
In addition, there may be various short courses appropriate to vet nurses, such as microchipping.
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