Veterinary Nursing
See study programmeThe programme educates veterinary nurses. Good knowledge of anatomy, physiology, behavior, diseases, nutrition, treatment and care, as well as good communication skills, are necessary to ensure proper professional practice and good animal welfare.
The programme contains three compulsory periods of practical training, as placements at animal clinics in the Nordic countries.
Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing at Nord University is based on the Dossier of European Competencies for the Veterinary Nurse from the Accreditation Committee ot Veterinary Nurse Education (ACOVENE).
Progression requirements
The courses in the program are directly based on one another, and certain courses must therefore be passed in order to proceed with the program. The practical training periods require a minimum of theoretical and practical knowledge, and the program therefore has compulsory participation in various teaching activities to ensure that the students are ready to go on to practical training.
Upon successful completion of this programme, the student is expected to possess the following knowledge, skills and general competences:
Knowledge
The candidate
has broad knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of animals, their natural behaviour and needs, as well as diseases, treatment and care
has knowledge of the basic cultural, legal, and economic factors in the field where veterinary nurses operate
knows clinical procedures and tools used in small animal clinics to ensure good animal welfare
knows relevant scientific research and development in the field of veterinary nursing
can understand and explain veterinary medical terminology
can update his/her own knowledge in veterinary nursing from key textbooks, and has the ability to find new valid sources
has knowledge of the profession of veterinary nursings origins, history, traditions, uniqueness and place in today's society.
Skills
The candidate
can apply professional knowledge to practical and theoretical issues, and make profesionally justified decisions when nursing and monitoring patients
can communicate appropriately with pet owners in different situations
can reflect on his/hers work, and adjust based on professional feedback and guidance
can find, evaluate and disseminate litterature within the field of veterinary medicine and animal welfare.
can communicate and disseminate litterature to colleagues and pet owners, both in writing and orally
has relevant practical skills within the basic clinical procedures in concern to animal welfare and HSE.
General competence
The candidate
has insight into professional, legal and ethical issues related to the profession as an awarded veterinary nurse
can plan, carry out and present work (practical skills, theoretical reviews, written assignments) both alone and in collaboration with others in line with the professional ethics guidelines of NDAF* and Norwegian legislation
can communicate central topics and problems, as well as suggest possible solutions to colleagues and pet owners. Both orally, in writing and by other suitable means of expression.
can exchange experiences and views with others within the field of veterinary nursing, and thus contribute to developing and establishing good practices and good animal welfare
is familiar about scientific research and development whitin the fields of animal welfare and veterinary nursing, especially concerning the need and welfare of animals in various work-related situations
*Norsk dyrepleier og assistenforening (NDAF) is a Norwegian association for veterinary nurses/ technicians or assistants at veterinary clinics.
Higher Education Entrance Qualification
Frequently asked questions about admission
Application Deadlines
March 1 Applications based on prior learning or exceptional circumstances
April 15 Central admission for applicants with Norwegian education (refer to information about admission to Norwegian-taught programmes)
The programme qualifies graduates to apply for admission to Master in biosciences at the Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture. Contact an advisor at the faculty for guidance in selecting appropriate elective courses to qualify for admission to the master programme.
The faculty cooperates with the University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Kosice, Slovakia. Students from Bachelor in Animal Care qualify to apply for 4-year post-BSc. studies in Veterinary Medicine.
There are also other relevant master studies in Norway and abroad. Please contact the specific university directly for information about admission and requirements.
Ever thought of spending part of your degree in another part of the world?
To promote international competence, it is desired that candidates will spend at least 15 weeks on a work placement abroad as part of your undergraduate studies, during your 6th semester, with our collaborating institutions in Europe and other parts of the world. These institutions offer you exciting opportunities to practice for one semester abroad, allowing a broader scope and diversity of topics than can be offered by a single university alone.
We are flexible and have dedicated staff who will do their best to help you with your stay abroad. An internship abroad compliments your degree studies best in the third academic year.
For more information on the process, you can contact Jose de Pool, advisor for study exchange.
In addition to the semester fee and syllabus literature, students are expected to have a laptop with microphone and camera. Students must purchase their own laboratory coat and scrubs for use in some courses.
In addition, students must expect costs related to travel, vaccinations, clinical work clothes and accomodation during practice periods.
- Written exams
- Multiple choice tests
- Compulsory reports, presentations and attendence at laboratory exercisies, seminars and practical sessions
- Assignments
- Practice
- Bachelor thesis is optional in the 6th semester
Students take an active part in the evaluation of the courses in the programme through mid-term and final evaluations. Dialogue meetings are also held between students and the programme director every semester.
The evaluations form a part of the university's quality assurance system.