The Gordon
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
Nationally Recognised Vocational Education and Training (VET)This course supports the role of a veterinary nurse who provides nursing care to animals, supports veterinarians during medical and surgical procedures, and helps clients maintain the health of their animals.
As a participant, you will need access to patients (animals), clients, medical and surgical cases, veterinary staff, and practice policies and procedures.
Applicants must hold a Certificate II or Certificate III in Animal Care/Care Services or a higher level qualification in an animal science discipline or demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge in a relevant animal science discipline.
This course is eligible for Free TAFE!
Eligible Victorian students who elect to use their one Free TAFE opportunity will not incur any tuition fees. Material and resources fees still apply.
Delivery mode
The Gordon offers this course through the following delivery modes:
On campus
Work with instructors and classmates in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Work Placement
Complete mandatory hands-on training in a workplace setting.
- Boundary Road, East Geelong
Entry requirements
Domestic Students
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
- Applicants must be 17 years and over at the time of course commencement.
- Applicants are expected to have literacy and numeracy skills at Year 11 or Year 12 or Australian Core Skills Framework Level 3.
- Applicants must:
- 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; OR
- Have the equivalent skills and knowledge for entry into Vet Nursing, based on a combination of the work experience and other qualifications which cover the equivalent skills and knowledge relevant for entry - work health and safety risks in an animal care facility; animal identification, handling and behaviour; animal nutrition; animal hygiene routines.
- You must reside in Victoria to access Victorian Government Subsidised Fees and any incentive such as Free TAFE. Full fees apply to all non-Victorian residents.
Course fees
- VIC Subsidised Training This training may be subsidised by the VIC Government for eligible individuals. Places are limited.
Career opportunities
The Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing will prepare you for the following roles.
Equine Veterinary Nurse
An Equine Veterinary Nurse works in a veterinary facility but specialises in the care of horses. Your role will be varied but could involve assisti...
Veterinary Nurse
A Veterinary Nurse assists with many of the daily operations at a veterinary surgery. You might have to help veterinarians while they treat an anim...
Cattery Attendant
A Cattery Attendant works in a cattery facility looking after domestic cats while their owners are away. Your daily duties will involve feeding and...
Animal Control Officer
An Animal Control Officer helps to enforce laws relating to the treatment of animals. You might have to help capture animals that are lost or have...
Apprentice Animal Trainer
An Apprentice Animal Trainer works with dogs and other animals to modify their behaviour or teach them to follow commands. You might work with one...
Assistant Dog Trainer
An Assistant Dog Trainer uses a range of training strategies to get dogs to follow commands or do specific duties. You might also work with dogs to...
Animal Shelter Manager
An Animal Shelter Manager oversees the daily operations at a facility for animals that are in need of care. You’ll care for animals until permanent...
Veterinary Emergency Nurse
A Veterinary Emergency Nurse assists with the treatment of animals in emergency situations such as an accident or a life threatening medical condit...
Wildlife Rehabilitator
A Wildlife Rehabilitator cares for injured, sick, or orphaned wildlife with the aim of releasing them back into their natural habitats. You might w...
Animal Welfare Officer
An Animal Welfare Officer ensures the humane treatment and welfare of animals. You might work in animal shelters, government agencies, or animal we...
Veterinary Technician
A Veterinary Technician assists veterinarians in the care and treatment of animals. You might work in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or rese...
Veterinarian
A Veterinarian treats animals for illnesses, injuries and other health concerns. You might specialise in a particular type of animal such as domest...
Veterinary Surgeon
A Veterinary Surgeon diagnoses and treats medical conditions in animals. You might work in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or shelters. Veter...
About The Gordon
As one of the largest TAFEs in Victoria, The Gordon has been helping people gain real skills for over 130 years. We pride ourselves on delivering a great range of study options in vocational ‘hands-on’ training.
