BSc Veterinary Nursing Science (sandwich)

BSc Veterinary Nursing Science (sandwich)

These exciting, vocationally based sandwich degrees will enable you to develop specialist nursing techniques and knowledge applicable to the health of animals, and vocationally based skills important in the handling and caring of animals in a veterinary environment. Ultimately, successful completion can lead to a qualification as a Registered Veterinary Nurse recognized by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), provided that you complete those elements specifically required by the RCVS.

Students have the opportunity to either complete a general programme or select the FdSc Equine Veterinary Science (SW), which includes equine specific content and work-based learning.

The work-based learning on all of the programmes is extensive and includes at least 60 weeks in an approved RCVS training practice, within 50 – 100 miles of Hartpury College (potentially further afield for the equine students). These courses have a number of unique factors such as this, so attendance at an open day to discuss the programme structure with a member of the Veterinary Nursing team is highly recommended. A visit to the College will give the opportunity to see our outstanding facilities which support these programmes.

Interview process

Please note that you will be asked to attend an interview prior to being offered a place on the programme. A key aspect which will be discussed at interview is your awareness of the veterinary nursing profession and relevant work experience completed (normally four to eight weeks).

Areas of study

Level 1

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Companion Animal Management
• Animal Microbiology
• Introduction to Veterinary Nursing Care
• Veterinary Nursing Process log (including placement)

Level 2

• Applied Veterinary Nursing Care
• Small Animal Surgical Nursing or Equine Surgical Nursing
• Diagnostic Techniques
• Pharmacy Management
• Reflective Veterinary Nursing Practice

Level 3

• Dissertation
• Independent Study
• Developments in Animal Science
• Veterinary Practice Management
• The Professional Veterinary Nurse
• Pharmacology
• Epidemiology

The above will either be taught in an equine or small animal context depending on the Foundation degree strand chosen.

Programme overview

UCAS code

BSc (Hons) – BD71 A

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science – D310 A

FdSc Equine Veterinary Nursing Science – D311

Programme length

BSc (Hons) – Four years sandwich (including 60 weeks in a veterinary practice)

Other options: FdSc – three years sandwich (including 60 weeks in veterinary practice)

Part-time option

Yes

Work experience opportunity

Yes, a minimum of 60 weeks

Interview required

Yes

Careers

Successful completion of the BSc (Hons)/FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science programme can lead you directly into small animal Veterinary Nursing, and successful completion of the FdSc Equine Veterinary Nursing Science programme can lead you directly into Equine Veterinary Nursing. Students can also progress to Honours degrees from the FdSc and further academic study. You may choose to specialize and undertake further study in areas such as medical or surgical nursing. Employment within the pharmaceutical industry or animal welfare organizations are also popular career choices although the main aim of these programmes are to produce professional veterinary nurses.