How to become a veterinary nurse
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
University
You can do a foundation degree or degree in veterinary nursing. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has a list of accredited courses.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
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College
You can study for a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing at college.
You'll spend some time in the classroom and periods of training on placement in a veterinary practice.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons has a list of approved training organisations offering the course.
Entry requirements
You'll need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
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Apprenticeship
You can begin your career by doing a Veterinary Nurse Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
The training takes up to 3 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
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Volunteering
You could get some work experience with a vet, local kennels or animal welfare centre before you start training. You could also try animal charities like the PDSA or RSPCA.
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Registration
- you'll need to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the British Veterinary Nursing Association for training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further information
You can learn more about how to become a veterinary nurse from the British Veterinary Nursing Association.