Studying veterinary nursing abroad
What is veterinary nursing?
Veterinary nursing is the care and support of animals under the supervision of veterinarians. It focuses on animal health, treatment, and recovery. Veterinary nurses help with medical procedures, monitor animal wellbeing, and educate pet owners about proper care.
The subject combines knowledge from biology, animal physiology, pharmacology, and clinical practice. As a veterinary nursing student, you will learn how to assist in surgeries, administer medications, perform diagnostic tests, and ensure animals are comfortable during treatment. Your learning can take place in classrooms, laboratories, clinics, and animal hospitals.
Why study veterinary nursing abroad?
Studying veterinary nursing in another country allows you to gain experience with different animal species and veterinary practices. You might work with domestic pets, farm animals, or wildlife, depending on your location. These experiences give you practical skills and a broader understanding of animal healthcare.
Studying in a different country also helps you develop cross-cultural communication skills, and it allows you to connect with international veterinary professionals, clinics, and animal welfare organisations.
What you will study
Veterinary nursing degrees combine classroom theory with practical training. Key areas of study include:
- Animal Anatomy and Physiology – understanding how animal bodies function
- Clinical Skills – assisting with treatments, surgeries, and diagnostics
- Pharmacology and Medications – learning safe drug administration
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare – ensuring humane care and handling
- Laboratory Techniques – conducting tests and analysing results
- Research and Data Analysis – interpreting veterinary research
Many programs also include practical placements in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or wildlife centres to give hands-on experience.
Related subjects you might also like
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Bioveterinary Science
- Zoology
- Animal Behaviour
Accreditation
At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Veterinary Nursing or a related field such as Animal Health or Veterinary Biosciences. Some universities offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Animal Care, combining clinical knowledge with management and welfare studies.
At postgraduate level, options include a Master of Science (MSc) in Veterinary Nursing, Animal Health, or Veterinary Clinical Practice. Specialisations may focus on surgical nursing, emergency care, or companion animal health. A PhD may be required for research or academic roles.
In some countries, professional accreditation allows graduates to become licensed veterinary nurses or registered veterinary technicians through recognised professional bodies.
Careers
A degree in veterinary nursing opens pathways to careers in clinics, hospitals, animal shelters, and research institutions. Graduates often work as veterinary nurses, surgical assistants, or animal care specialists.
Others pursue roles in animal welfare organisations, zoos, wildlife conservation, or veterinary education. You could also work as a clinical researcher, laboratory technician, or animal behaviourist.
Veterinary nursing graduates gain skills valued worldwide, offering opportunities to improve animal health and wellbeing while contributing to global veterinary practice.