Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing

Program Overview

The ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing qualification is the latest nationally accredited qualification that provides essential training for those aspiring to work as veterinary nurses under the guidance of registered veterinarians.

The curriculum covers extensive nursing care for animals, assistance during medical and surgical procedures, and client education on animal health.

Entry Requirement

Must possess basic computer skills
Must be able to lift and move animals weighing up to 10 Kg
Must be 18 years or older
Have sound language, literacy, and numeracy skills* (at least Year 10 English, or equivalent)
Hold a Certificate II in Animal Studies
OR Hold a relevant Certificate III or higher level qualification in an animal science discipline
OR Can demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge in a relevant animal science discipline to any of the above qualifications

International Student Requirement

Have sound language, literacy, and numeracy skills* (at least Year 10 English, or equivalent)
(From non-English speaking background) are required to provide any one of the following evidence of upper intermediate proficiency in English:
- IELTS total band score of at least 6.0
- TOEFL ibt total score of at least 64
- PTE total score of at least 50
- CAE total score of at least 169
- Unless one of the English language exemptions applies as provided for within this link https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500#Eligibilityor
International Students Must hold a current Student Visa. Learn more.

Qualification Pathways

Learners who complete the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing can progress to the ACM50219 Diploma of Veterinary Nursing, deepening their expertise and opening opportunities for specialisation in areas like emergency care, dental technology, and leadership. This pathway equips them for advanced roles tailored to their interests in the veterinary industry.

Course Outline

17 Core Units
ACMGEN314	Identify animal anatomy and physiology for animal care work
ACMGEN315	Communicate effectively with clients and team members
ACMINF301	Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care work
ACMVET202	Carry out daily practice routines
ACMVET401	Coordinate veterinary reception duties
ACMVET402	Apply imaging routines
ACMVET403	Perform clinical pathology procedures
ACMVET404	Perform practice office procedures
ACMVET405	Coordinate and perform surgical nursing routines
ACMVET406	Nurse animals
ACMVET407	Carry out medical nursing routines
ACMVET408	Provide nutritional advice and support for animals
ACMVET409	Provide specific animal care advice
ACMVET410	Carry out veterinary dental nursing procedures
ACMVET413	Prepare for anaesthesia and monitor animal anaesthesia and analgesia
ACMVET416	Assist with the preparation of veterinary drugs and poisons
ACMWHS301	Contribute to workplace health and safety processes

4 Elective Units
ACMSUS401	Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices
ACMSPE317	Provide general care of domestic cats
ACMVET203	Assist with surgery preparation
ACMGEN309	Provide basic animal first aid

Future Careers

There are many employment opportunities for graduates, including:

- Veterinary Nurse
- Veterinary Specialist Assistant
- Wildlife Veterinary Assistant…