About the course
This course is pending final approval with VetSkill
The Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Medical) is designed for qualified Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) who are looking to take their clinical knowledge and skills to an advanced level.
This course is ideal for RVNs who:
Want to specialise in medical nursing within a veterinary practice or hospital environment
Are keen to develop advanced, evidence-based nursing practice and critical thinking skills
Wish to build expertise in areas such as medical conditions, diagnostics, pharmacology, and patient care planning
Are aiming to enhance their career progression into senior, specialist, or referral-level roles
Learners must already be registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), ensuring the programme builds on existing professional competence and experience.
Overall, this qualification suits motivated veterinary nurses who want to move beyond Day One competencies and demonstrate mastery in medical nursing practice.
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Start date: September 2026
Course length: Two Years (36 weeks)
Course Modules
AVNM01 Clinic Design and Biosecurity
AVNM02 Medical Pharmacology
AVNM03 Medical Disorders
AVNM04 Principles of Advanced Medical and Oncological Nursing
AVNM05 Fundamentals of Anaesthesia and Analgesia and Post anaesthetic Nursing for Medical Conditions
AVNM06 Diagnostic Techniques for Medical Disorders
AVNM07 Practical Medical Nursing Skills
Entry requirements & additional information
Learners must have a current listing on the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Register of Veterinary Nurses to be able to undertake this qualification.
Methods of assessment: Unit level assessment (conducted by centre), Qualification Summative Assessment (conducted by VetSkill)
AVNM01 Clinic Design and Biosecurity - Assignment, Written examination
AVNM02 Medical Pharmacology - Practical case report, Written examination
AVNM03 Medical Disorders - Practical case report, Written examination
AVNM04 Principles of Advanced Medical and Oncological Nursing - Practical case report, Written examination
AVNM05 Fundamentals of Anaesthesia and Analgesia and Post anaesthetic Nursing for Medical Conditions - Practical case report, Written Examination
AVNM06 Diagnostic Techniques for Medical Disorders - Practical case report, Written examination
AVNM07 Practical Medical Nursing Skills - Practical Skills portfolio, VetSkill administered Practical Examination assessing mastery of practical skills for AVNM07
This qualification is designed for the training and development of Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) wishing to advance their knowledge and skills in medical nursing to a mastery level beyond that of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Day One Skills and Competences.
It is intended to provide relevant practical skills and underpinning knowledge that is relevant to the role of a Registered Veterinary Nurse working within the medical clinic environment, and will demonstrate mastery of medical nursing skills. Evidence-based nursing and research is expected throughout this qualification to explore best practice and critically compare current processes. The supporting taught programme should include a balance of teaching and learning strategies designed to help learners develop knowledge, understanding, and effective practical skills.
Lap top and appropriate attire for placement practicals and workshop.