Level 3 Veterinary Nursing

Work based qualification with theory learning at college for student veterinary nurses wishing to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) with RCVS. Available as a Level 3 Modern Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing providing you are employed in an approved training practice.

Location: Oatridge
Study mode:
Start date: September 2025
Duration: 2.5 years
Agency code: VNU1

Course overview

Veterinary Practices please email vetnursingoatridge@sruc.ac.uk for more information on the programme and the application process.

This course combines on-campus study with practical studies and placement sections to fully develop veterinary nursing skills.

Enables learners to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to support employment as a student veterinary nurse and develop a career in veterinary nursing of small animals. Knowledge covered in college teaching weeks is then supported by learning and assessment of associated practical skills in the workplace. Theory is examined with Lantra online MCQ examinations and a single written assignment. The final Lantra practical exam is external to college. College learning is blended with the majority on campus but some online lecturer led teaching.

Virtual Experience

Take a look around the SRUC Virtual Experience for lots of great student videos and examples of what it’s like to study our courses, along with campus and facility tours.

SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.

Entry requirements

You'll have a minimum 5 National 5s (A-C) including English, Maths and Science,

You must be employed as a student veterinary nurse in a RCVS Approved Training Practice

Veterinary Practices please email vetnursingoatridge@sruc.ac.uk for more information on the programme and the application process.

What you'll learn

The qualification will ensure you develop the skills and competence required to be able to work professionally using Day One Skills and Day One Competencies set by RCVS. The qualification focusses on veterinary nursing care of dogs, cats and rabbits.

Year 1- Units 1 and 2

Year 2 – Units 3 and 4

Year 3 – Unit 5

Units:

Veterinary Nursing in Practice ( includes animal husbandry, communication, daily practice, nursing care plans, models, clinics and facilitating home care, preparing for professional registration)
Application of veterinary Nursing A incorporating laboratory diagnostics.
Application of veterinary Nursing B incorporating supply of medicines
Application of veterinary Nursing C incorporating diagnostic imaging
Anaesthesia and Theatre Nursing

Student experience

Meet Fay Carrison. She was delighted to be accepted into the Level 3 Diploma.

"I remember coming home from my first placement in a veterinary practice feeling like I had found my calling in life," she says. "I've been lucky enough to experience lambing and basic farm work, along with working in a referrals hospital.

"Working in practice three days a week allows us to build on what we've learned in class.

"I work alongside some of the most amazing people, get taught by knowledgeable and passionate tutors and my class is filled with inspirational, kind and supportive individuals."

"I work alongside amazing people, I'm taught by passionate tutors, my class is filled with inspirational individuals."

Fay Carrison

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for this course:

Scottish students: £1,110 (year 1)*
RUK students: £1,110 (year 1)*
International students: £6,750

More detailed information about these fees can be found on our higher education fees page.

*Employers of Veterinary Nursing Modern Apprenticeship candidates will have to pay a £1,110 registration fee to cover enrolment and other external fees.

Funding available:

Scottish students: you may be eligible to apply for a tuition fee loan through SAAS. Learn more
RUK students: you may be eligible to have your tuition fees paid as part of a bursary through your local government department. Learn more
International students: you may be eligible for international student scholarships through SRUC. Learn more