| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing program at Ulster University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies for a fulfilling career in veterinary nursing. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, emphasizing ethical and professional conduct, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Graduates are prepared for a wide range of career opportunities in the veterinary field, including registered veterinary nurse, academia, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- Equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for a fulfilling career in veterinary nursing.
- Develop proficiency in a wide range of nursing skills.
- Emphasize ethical and professional conduct in veterinary nursing practice.
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Instill a commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
- Produce competent and compassionate veterinary nurses who are prepared to make meaningful contributions to animal health and welfare.
Description:
The BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing degree at Ulster University is a comprehensive educational program designed to prepare students for a successful career in veterinary nursing. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to provide high-quality care for animals. This program covers a wide range of topics related to animal health and welfare, including:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Animal nutrition
- Animal behavior
- Disease prevention and control
- Pharmacology
- Surgical nursing
- Emergency and critical care
- Ethics and professional conduct The program also includes a strong emphasis on practical experience, with students completing a significant amount of time in clinical placements working alongside experienced veterinary professionals. This allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the workplace.
Provisional Accreditation:
This program is currently provisionally accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). Once the first cohort of students completes the program, the RCVS will consider granting full accreditation.
Outline:
Structure:
The BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing program is a four-year full-time program. It is divided into modules, each of which covers a specific topic related to veterinary nursing.
Course Schedule:
The precise course schedule for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to change.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module but can include:
- Examinations
- Coursework
- Practical assessments
- Clinical evaluations
Assessment Criteria:
Assessments are designed to assess students' achievement of the learning outcomes for each module.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Practical classes
- Clinical placements
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced and qualified academic staff, including:
- Professors
- Readers
- Senior Lecturers
- Lecturers Many of the staff hold PhDs in their field and have professional body recognition.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning, with students gaining significant practical experience through clinical placements. The program also incorporates interactive learning methods, such as simulations and case studies, to help students develop their clinical reasoning skills.
Careers:
Career Options:
Graduates of the program can pursue a variety of careers in veterinary nursing, including:
- Registered veterinary nurse
- Animal feedstuff and healthcare industries
- Academia
- Pharmaceutical industry
Career Opportunities:
The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in the veterinary field. Graduates can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Veterinary practices
- Animal hospitals
- Research institutions
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Government agencies
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a high rate of employment in the veterinary field. They are also well-prepared for further study, such as postgraduate programs in veterinary nursing or related fields.
Other:
- The program requires students to complete an interactive component, which includes an interview with staff and questions based on the professional attributes of a veterinary nurse.
- Students must also complete 37 hours of relevant work experience with small animals in a veterinary practice or other relevant facility.
- Additional mandatory costs include health screening and/or vaccinations, personal protection equipment, and registration with the RCVS as a student nurse.
- Students are responsible for covering the costs of accommodation, travel, and normal living in addition to tuition fees.
Ulster University
Overview:
Ulster University is a public university in Northern Ireland with campuses in Belfast, Coleraine, Derry~Londonderry, and a dedicated Sports Village. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, as well as short courses and research opportunities. The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation, ranking in the top 10% of UK universities for research impact.
Services Offered:
Ulster University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Accommodation:
On-campus accommodation options are available at all campuses.Sports Services:
The university boasts a dedicated Sports Village with various facilities and memberships.Student Union:
The Ulster University Students' Union (UUSU) offers a variety of support services and social activities.Student Wellbeing:
The university provides support services for student mental health and well-being.Digital Services:
Students have access to online resources and services through the university portal.Library Services:
The university library offers a wide range of resources and support for learning, teaching, and research.Employability and Careers Advice:
The university provides guidance and support for students seeking employment opportunities.Global Partnerships:
The university offers opportunities for international students and partnerships with other institutions.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Ulster University offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students can expect:
Strong sense of community:
Each campus fosters a welcoming and supportive environment.Active student life:
UUSU organizes various social events, clubs, and societies.Access to facilities:
Students have access to modern facilities, including libraries, sports centers, and accommodation.Opportunities for personal development:
The university offers various programs and activities to enhance students' skills and well-being.Key Reasons to Study There:
High-quality education:
Ulster University offers a wide range of programs taught by experienced academics.Strong research focus:
The university is known for its commitment to research and innovation.Vibrant campus life:
Students can enjoy a diverse and engaging campus experience.Excellent support services:
The university provides comprehensive support services for students' academic and personal needs.Career-focused approach:
The university emphasizes employability and provides career guidance to students.Academic Programs:
Ulster University offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties, including:
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Life and Health Sciences
Ulster University Business School
The university is particularly strong in areas such as:
Nursing and Healthcare
Business and Management
Engineering and Technology
Arts and Humanities
Other:
- The university has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
- Ulster University is registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.
- The university has a dedicated website for alumni and supporters.
- The university offers a range of online courses and resources.
Entry Requirements:
EU Home Students:
- A Level: BCC at A level including Biology.
- English Language Requirements:
- Minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.
- Additional Entry Requirements:
- Pass an interactive component (interview) with questions based on the professional attributes of a veterinary nurse.
- Complete 37 hours relevant work experience with small animals in a veterinary practice or other relevant facility such as an animal charity, kennels or cattery (including voluntary work).
International Overseas Students:
- Academic Requirements:
- International Baccalaureate Diploma: 28 points overall, including at least 5 points in Biology and 5 points in another science subject.
- Other qualifications: Equivalent qualifications to the above, with at least a pass grade in Biology and another science subject.
- English Language Requirements:
- Minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.
- Other accepted tests:
- PTE Academic (minimum score 51)
- TOEFL iBT (minimum score 70)
- Cambridge English Qualifications (minimum score 169)
- Additional Entry Requirements:
- Same as EU Home Students.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- English language proficiency is required for all applicants, regardless of their nationality.
- The minimum requirement is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.
- Other accepted tests include PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, and Cambridge English Qualifications.
