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Medical Nursing

ISVPS Nurses Certificate/Veterinary Technician Certificate (NCert/VTCert)
  • Online Learning
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Medical Nursing Online Learning

Explore the latest developments in veterinary medicine

This 100% online Medical Nursing Program is designed to provide veterinary nurses and techs with access to current, relevant knowledge in small animal medical nursing. It aims to help participants enhance the quality of care provided to canine and feline patients by applying best practices in clinical settings.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore a wide range of key topics, including anaesthesia and analgesia, diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, and oncology. You’ll also cover presentation, considerations, and ongoing management of common medical diseases.

Finally, the program explores essential principles of practice management and patient care. This includes understanding organisational structures, effective client communication strategies, and developing personalised care plans to meet the specific needs of each individual patient.

With 24/7 online access, you can learn at your own pace and fit study around the demands of a busy practice.

Gain an industry-recognised qualification

This program is accredited with the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies (ISVPS) meaning you can achieve a Nurse Certificate or Vet Tech Certificate (NCert/VTCert) while you study.

Please note that ISVPS registration and examination fees are not included in the course fees.

For all enquiries about ISVPS requirements, contact [email protected].

Course Highlights

  • 8 varied modules covering key clinical topics in medical nursing
  • Support from your module tutor
  • Discussion Forum: Discuss cases with your peers and module tutor
  • 100% Online via engaging and interactive learning platform
  • Regular Assessments: To track your progress and reflect on your learning
  • ISVPS Accredited: Work towards a globally-recognised qualification
  • RACE Approved: 96 CPD points
  • 12-month subscription to RCVS Knowledge Library
Medical Nursing
  • July 2025 - February 2026
  • Format: 8 Online Modules
  • Qualifications: NCert / VTCert
  • RACE Accredited: 96 CPD Points
  • ISVPS Accredited Training
  • Online
  • Price: AU $4,725
  • An initial $500 deposit will secure your place in this program!
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Learning Modules

Module 1: Anaesthesia

July 2025

Key learning objectives

At the end of the module delegate should be able to:

  • Review acid/base balance, the practical application of blood products and explain when different fluid replacement options should be used. Demonstrate the ability to perform all types of fluid administration calculations.
  • Explain the importance of client consent forms, patient anaesthesia records and be able to complete both correctly.
  • Obtain knowledge of basic through to advanced patient monitoring and the pros and cons of multi-parameter monitoring for specific cases. Describe and explain abnormal capnography and pulse oximetry waveforms and suggest options to improve them.
  • Understand the use of different pre-anaesthetic medication, induction and maintenance agents, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each in specific cases.
  • Identify different types of endotracheal tubes and their use explaining the advantages and disadvantages of each. Demonstrate the skill of intubating easy & more difficult patients

Module 2: Analgesia

August 2025

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the modules delegates should be able to :

  • Appreciate the pathophysiology of pain and be able to identify pain in different species using pain scoring methods.
  • Explain the different classes of analgesia, including opioids, NSAIDs, local anaesthetics and other agents and their pharmacology and appreciate their different delivery methods for specific patients using the multi-modal approach.
  • Pre-emptive analgesia theory and practical approaches to achieving it
  • Outline the use of analgesia in medical patients for chronic and palliative use.
  • Describe appropriate analgesic agents for the use of CRI, when and how these should be used/monitored and be able to perform a CRI calculation.
  • Demonstrate different intravenous catheterisation techniques including central venous catheterisation.
  • Be able to place a central venous line

Module 3: Principles- The Clinic

September 2025

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss how hospital layout affects the running of a clinic in relation to infection control and the importance of specific patient areas on patient recovery.
  • Understand how hospital acquired infections are obtained and spread, as well as the different types of infection.
  • Distinguish between the terms of disinfection and sterilization and how these techniques are implemented within the hospital setting.
  • Gain knowledge of the importance of the appropriate selection and use of medical equipment for specific diagnostic procedures and patient monitoring.
  • Explain how to store, maintain and prepare the above equipment.
  • Appreciate the importance of hospital Health & Safety.
  • Be able to identify potential risks and hazards within the medical setting and have the knowledge of how to reduce these risks.

Module 4: Principles - The Patient

October 2025

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss the importance of daily patient assessment and record keeping of the medical patient via charting systems. Be able to outline physical examination techniques and explain their relevance.
  • Outline the importance of the specific nursing requirements of inpatients with specific pathophysiology and life stage. Be able to explain the importance of nursing care plans and their use.
  • Obtain knowledge of the role of nutrition in the medical patient, identifying the advantages and disadvantages of both enteral and parenteral administration and how to manage these cases within the clinic.
  • Select the appropriate patient preparation technique and positioning required for specific medical procedures.
  • Identify medical diseases and procedures that result in an outpatient assessment and the significance of outpatient monitoring.
  • Become familiar with identifying medical complications and consolidate your knowledge of how to minimise them.
  • Explain the set up and maintenance of endoscopes and when they are most useful as part of a diagnostic work-up
  • Appreciate the importance of clinical governance & client communication within the veterinary clinic.

Module 5: Imaging

November 2025

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Explain the different radiographic techniques available, their pros and cons and uses in specific situations
  • Evaluate radiographic image quality to ensure diagnostic radiographs are available for interpretation and improve your basic film reading, identifying radiographic artefacts and faults.
  • Revise contrast studies, becoming familiar with their use and the specific equipment required to perform them
  • Understand the principles of ultrasound imaging and be familiar with how to set up and maintain the ultrasound machine and probes
  • Identify specific equipment and materials required for ultrasound-guided procedures
  • Employ the principles of FAST scanning to triage emergency cases
  • Review advanced imaging (CT/MRI and scintigraphy) and their uses in diagnosis and monitoring medical cases

Module 6: Oncology

December 2025

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the modules delegates should be able to;

  • Discuss the biology of cancer and paraneoplastic disease
  • Describe the principles, challenges and ethics of cancer treatment in dogs and cats
  • Outline the options for local management of tumours including surgery and radiation therapy
  • Explain how systemic management of tumours can be achieved through chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy
  • Select appropriate diagnostic methods for the investigation and management of: Lymphoma; mast cell tumours; bone tumours; splenic tumours; oral tumours and selected other common tumours
  • Familiarise yourself with specific feline tumours
  • Identify and understand oncological emergencies
  • Evaluate the unique challenges of starting an oncology clinic – practicalities of administering chemotherapy and management of clients
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the significance of drug safety, staff and owner protection

Module 7: Body Systems

January 2026

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Appreciate clinical assessment and how it that can be used to narrow down location of a respiratory problem
  • Explain the typical presentations, treatment and follow up required for a variety of respiratory diseases in small animal practice including feline asthma/bronchitis, chronic canine bronchitis, lungworm, pneumonia and nasal disease.
  • Discuss the common signs of acute and chronic gastrointestinal disease and logical approaches to investigating the underlying causes
  • Describe the most common gastrointestinal diseases and how to treat and/or manage them successfully.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities of liver disease in the cat and dog
  • Compare pancreatitis in cats and dogs in relation to presentation and treatment options
  • Recognise the importance of the classification of chronic kidney disease in relation to management and monitoring
  • Become familiar with the diagnostic, therapeutic and monitoring challenges of a variety of endocrine diseases including those associated with the pancreas, adrenal and thyroid glands.

Module 8: Medical Pharmacology

February 2026

Key Learning Objectives

At the end of the module delegates should be able to;

  • Appreciate the challenges involved in getting the best out of laboratory tests including sampling methods and test selection
  • Describe a general approach to all poisoning cases including what resources are available, what diagnostic tests may help and how to treat common toxicities
  • Discuss rational drug use– consider how we protect antibiotic use, other considerations in therapeutic trials in medicine cases and monitoring for side effects
  • Consider traditional UK infectious diseases – how they are diagnosed, managed and treatment options
  • Become familiar with infectious diseases new to the UK and discuss the challenges in diagnosis and treatment of these conditions
  • Describe how antibody testing can be useful in vaccination protocols
  • Be familiar with WSAVA vaccination guidelines

*Please note: Module order may be subject to change

Course Speakers

Abby Caine
VetMB BA CertVDI DipECVDI MRCVS

Abby Caine

VetMB BA CertVDI DipECVDI MRCVS
Laura Jones
(Nee Rosewell) BSc(Hons) DipAVN(Small Animal) ISFMDipFN VTS(SAIM) RVN

Laura Jones

(Nee Rosewell) BSc(Hons) DipAVN(Small Animal) ISFMDipFN VTS(SAIM) RVN
Nicola Grint
BVSc PhD CertVA DVA DiplECVAA MRCVS

Nicola Grint

BVSc PhD CertVA DVA DiplECVAA MRCVS
Nicki graduated from Bristol Vet School in 2000, and stayed on to undertake an internship and then residency in veterinary anaesthesia. In 2005, she moved to Liverpool Vet School to undertake a three year lectureship post, becoming head of division in 2007. After leaving Liverpool, Nicki locumed at the Animal Health Trust, the Royal Veterinary College, and Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She completed her PhD in analgesia at Bristol University and holds the RCVS Certificate and Diploma in Veterinary Anaesthesia, and is also a European Diplomate in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia. She ran the anaesthesia service at Cave Veterinary Specialists for 8 years and is now an independent anaesthesia consultant.
Dr Owen Davies
MA VetMB MVetMed MANZCVS(SAM) DACVIM(Oncology) MRCVS RCVS & American Specialist in Veterinary Oncology

Dr Owen Davies

MA VetMB MVetMed MANZCVS(SAM) DACVIM(Oncology) MRCVS RCVS & American Specialist in Veterinary Oncology
Owen is an RCVS and American recognized specialist in veterinary oncology. Before his residency at the Royal Veterinary College he spent 9 years in general practice, including mixed, small animal, private and charity work. He is a member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (chapter of small animal medicine), a diplomat of the ACVIM(oncology) and holds a Master’s degree based on research into canine lymphoma. Owen currently works at Highcroft Veterinary Referrals in Bristol.
Paula Diana Valienta
DVM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS

Paula Diana Valienta

DVM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS
Rory Bell
MVB DSAM DipECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS

Rory Bell

MVB DSAM DipECVIM-CA FHEA MRCVS
Thomas Towey
Thomas Towey
BVMS CertAVP(ECC) MRCVS Advanced Practitioner in Emergency & Critical Care
Thomas Towey

Thomas Towey

BVMS CertAVP(ECC) MRCVS Advanced Practitioner in Emergency & Critical Care
Tom Towey, BVMS CertAVP(ECC) MRCVS Advanced Practitioner in Emergency & Critical Care, graduated from The University of Glasgow in 2011 and began working in emergency practice at Petmedics, Manchester. He gained his Advanced Practioner status in 2018 and now works as an ECC clinician at Vets Now Referrals Manchester. Tom delivered CPD at conferences around the UK.

Payment Options

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Payment Plan Options
Booking Terms & Conditions
Full Payment

Full Payment Upfront: Total payable AU$4,725 inc GST.

ISVPS registration & examination fees are not included in this price.

Deposit Only

AU $500 initial deposit will secure your place. The full balance of fees ($4,225) must be paid prior to the program start date (no program access will be granted until full payment is received).

All prices are inclusive of compulsory 10% GST.

ISVPS registration & examination fees are not included in this price.

Payment Plan - VetEdPay
Payment Plan Options
Booking Terms & Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply to all bookings.

Please find the terms and conditions here.

Enrol Now

FAQ

Who can enrol in the Nursing Certificate/Veterinary Technician Online Learning Programs?

You need to have achieved your primary vet nurse or vet tech qualification to be eligible to enrol and undertake the program and ISVPS exams.

Nursing Programs – you must hold a recognised Veterinary Nurse qualification (e.g Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing).

Vet Tech. Programs – you must hold a recognised Veterinary Technician/Technologist qualification. 

These programs are postgraduate study and require learners to have a sound knowledge of veterinary nursing, including basic anatomy and physiology. 

Proof of qualification will be required by the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies to sit the exam. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the program.

How do I enrol in the Online Learning program?

You can enrol directly via our website, from the program page. Our team will invoice you for the program and once agreed fees are paid, you can join the global program. Please reach out to the team at [email protected] if you have any questions on how to do this.

The program is a big investment in finances and resources. Are there payment plans or HECS debt relief?

As a private education provider, Improve Veterinary Education Australia is not part of the national HECS scheme.

Payment plans are done on a case by case basis and program access is given only after ALL enrolment fees are paid. Please be aware any payment plans incur additional fees.

I want to join the program but can’t get the funds together by the start date? Can I still join the Program later?

Yes – there are limited opportunities for late entry. Please contact us directly [email protected] for any specific questions and we can help.

How long do I have to complete the Online Program content?

Most delegates complete the program within a 12–18-month time period (depending on course start and assessment dates). Delegates have 3 years access to taught modules from program start date.

Is self-study required or can you just work through the program content?

An additional 52 hours of self-study over most programs is recommended. You will also require access to journals and articles via an internet library service. 

Online Nursing/Tech program candidates have access to the RCVS Knowledge Library. Delegates will be required to register via the online learning platform once they are enrolled in the program. Other internet library services are available (e.g. PubMed; Google scholar) which may incur an additional registration fee.

Can I defer partway through the Online Learning Program and complete it later?

Any deferral requests are considered on a case by case basis by the UK Improve Veterinary Education Team, who manage the Online Programs.  If deferral is agreed, it will include additional administration fees and charges. Specific modules of the program can not be deferred.

Can I enrol in an Online Learning Program after the start date?

Yes, we do accept limited late admissions (subject to availability). If you join late, you will be required to catch up on the module content that you have missed. Please be aware that although discussion forums can be access after the module is finished, the Specialist Tutors are only available for questions during the month their module is being delivered.

How many CPD/RACE hours will this program provide?

The majority of the NCert/VT Cert programs are a minimum of 100 CPD hours (approximately 48 hours of delivered sessions and 52 hours self-study time).

Please note that the CPD hours depend on the number of modules, which can vary. Check the program details on the specific webpage.

Do these CPD points count towards annual AVNAT registration?

Yes, the CPD points allocated to any programs that are RACE approved are eligible to count towards the 20 CPD points that are required annually by Vet Nurses/Technicians to keep their AVNAT registration. 

Is the Nurse/Vet Tech Online Program content specific to Australia and New Zealand?

The content for the Nurse/V Tech Online Programs covers the global syllabus for the ISVPS Certificates.

This means there is material in the program that may be referable to UK/Europe and other regions. All program materials are accessible for the ISVPS qualification.

Do I need to attend live webinars if they are scheduled? What if I can’t make that time?

No, you don’t need to be available at the time of the webinar. Any live content is recorded and can be watched at any time. This gives you the flexibility to study when and where you want, and to structure your learning around your busy work and life schedules.

How do I achieve the NCert/VTCert qualification, awarded by the International School of Veterinary Postgraduate Studies?

The NCert / VTCert is the ISVPS postgraduate qualification awarded to veterinary nurses / technicians who successfully complete the accredited training program from Improve Veterinary Education and complete the required ISVPS assessments for the Certificate. 

To obtain either the NCert or VTCert delegates will be required to: 

  • Attend the accredited Online Learning Program 
  • Register with ISVPS, pay the associated ISVPS registration and examination fees 
  • Successfully submit all the assessments required from ISVPS.

For the most up-to-date information on the ISVPS assessments for the NCert/VTCerts  please contact ISVPS directly at [email protected] or visit the ISVPS website.

Is registration compulsory for the ISVPS NCert/VTCert qualification?

Registration and associated assessments with ISVPS are optional but strongly encouraged.

Delegates who choose NOT to register with ISVPS will receive an acknowledgement of their ‘Continuing Professional Development’ (CPD) hours from Improve Veterinary Education.

Delegates ARE NOT eligible to receive the postgraduate qualifications (NCert or VTCert) in their chosen discipline, without fulfilling the ISVPS requirements.

I want to register for the NCert/VTCert qualification via ISVPS.

Registration is made directly with ISVPS once you are enrolled in the Online Learning Program.  ISVPS contact details will be shared so you can complete their registration forms and pay the associated fees direct to ISVPS. 

ISVPS registration fees are NOT included in the Improve Veterinary Education Australia program fees.

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Established as a company in 1998 by a group of dedicated veterinary surgeons. Improve Veterinary Education has now expanded across the globe with offices in the UK, Europe and around the world.

Our mission is to offer high quality training to veterinarians, vet nurses and vet technicians in Australia and New Zealand.

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