Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing (CRICOS course code 084960A) is an Associate Degree delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 2 years. This qualification equips you with the skills to work in veterinary clinical settings, assisting veterinarians in animal care, surgical preparation, diagnostic imaging, and client communication. As an AQF Level 6 program in Veterinary Assisting (Field 061103), it prepares graduates for roles in private veterinary practices, animal hospitals, and shelters. Melbourne Polytechnic is a government-owned TAFE institute with CRICOS provider code 00724G, offering this course at its Epping Campus and Lort Smith Animal Hospital in North Melbourne. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers in Australia offering more than 26,000 courses, this program stands out for its strong industry connections and hands-on training. Whether you're an international student seeking a pathway to veterinary nursing or aiming to upgrade your qualifications, this course provides a solid foundation in animal health and care.
Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing (CRICOS course code 084960A) is an Associate Degree delivered by Melbourne Polytechnic over 2 years (104 weeks on the CRICOS register). This course sits within the Health field of education (06) under Veterinary Studies (0611) and specifically Veterinary Assisting (061103). As an AQF Level 6 qualification, it is designed to provide intermediate-level knowledge and practical skills for veterinary nursing. Melbourne Polytechnic, a government TAFE institute with a strong reputation in vocational and higher education, offers this program with a significant work component—65 weeks of work-integrated learning totaling approximately 1,274 hours. This ensures graduates are job-ready and familiar with real-world veterinary environments. The course is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. All data is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, reflecting the most current information available.
The Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing covers the essential theoretical and practical aspects of veterinary nursing. Students learn about animal anatomy and physiology, veterinary pharmacology, surgical nursing, diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia, and emergency care. The curriculum also includes client communication, practice management, and ethical considerations in animal care. Graduates typically develop competencies in assisting veterinarians during examinations and surgeries, performing laboratory tests, administering medications, providing nursing care for hospitalized animals, and educating pet owners. The program aligns with the field of Veterinary Assisting (061103) and prepares students for roles such as veterinary nurse, animal health technician, or practice manager. While specific syllabi vary, this general guidance reflects the standards expected at this level. For exact unit details, refer to Melbourne Polytechnic's website.
This course has a CRICOS-registered duration of 104 weeks (2 years), delivered in English. It is a single qualification with no dual award. The program includes a substantial work-integrated learning component, but the overall duration remains 2 years. Classes are conducted at Melbourne Polytechnic's Epping Campus and Lort Smith Animal Hospital, combining on-campus theory with clinical placements. International students should note that the CRICOS register specifies 104 weeks, which aligns with the expected full-time study load. While the course may be offered in different modes (e.g., full-time, part-time), visa conditions require international students to maintain full-time enrolment. Always confirm the current delivery format with the institution. Melbourne Polytechnic provides modern facilities, including simulated veterinary clinics and animal care labs, to enhance hands-on learning.
The indicative tuition fee for Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing is A$48,000 for the entire course. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0 on the CRICOS register, which may mean they are included or not applicable. Therefore, the estimated total cost is A$48,000. However, these figures are sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change—always confirm directly with Melbourne Polytechnic for current fees. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For context, living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$20,000–A$25,000 per year, including rent (approx. A$300–A$500 per week for shared accommodation), groceries, and transport. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy provides this data without commission or referral fees.
English language requirements vary by provider; typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For an AQF Level 6 Associate Degree, an IELTS score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5 is common, but Melbourne Polytechnic may set higher standards. Prior qualifications: applicants should have completed Year 12 or equivalent. Foundation or pathway options may be available—check with the provider. As this is a health-related program, additional prerequisites such as a Working with Children Check or immunisation records may be required for placements. International students must also meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, OSHC, and living costs. For precise requirements, consult Melbourne Polytechnic's website or contact their international admissions team.
Yes, this course includes a mandatory work component of 65 weeks, averaging 19.6 hours per week, totaling approximately 1,274 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) takes the form of clinical placements, internships, or practical work experience in veterinary settings such as animal hospitals, clinics, and shelters. The extensive placement hours ensure that graduates gain real-world skills under supervision, building confidence and industry connections. Students may be placed at Lort Smith Animal Hospital or other approved veterinary practices. This component is integral to the course and is included in the tuition fee. International students should note that work placements must comply with their student visa conditions, which allow 48 hours per fortnight of paid work during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
Melbourne Polytechnic delivers this course at two locations: - **Epping Campus** – Located in Epping, a northern suburb of Melbourne, approximately 20 km from the CBD. The campus is accessible via public transport (train to Epping Station and bus) and offers modern facilities including veterinary nursing labs and animal care centres. - **Lort Smith Animal Hospital** – Situated in North Melbourne, near the CBD, this is a major veterinary hospital providing hands-on clinical training. Students gain invaluable experience working alongside experienced veterinarians and nurses. Melbourne, Victoria, is Australia's second-largest city with a vibrant student population and over 100 CRICOS-registered providers. The city offers a diverse multicultural environment, excellent public transport, and a range of accommodation options.
To study this course as an international student, you must apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: - Meeting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion - Obtaining Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay - Demonstrating sufficient financial capacity for tuition, living costs, and travel - Holding a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from Melbourne Polytechnic Visa conditions allow you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. The ESOS Act (Education Services for Overseas Students) protects your rights, including tuition fee refund policies and quality standards. All listed institutions on HeadStart Academy are CRICOS-registered, ensuring compliance with Australian laws. Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide migration advice—consult a registered MARA agent or the Department of Home Affairs for visa applications.
Follow these three steps to apply for Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing at Melbourne Polytechnic: 1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level, field, and city. Confirm that Melbourne Polytechnic (CRICOS 00724G) is the right fit for you. 2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Meet the entry requirements (English test, academic transcripts, etc.) and submit your application before the deadline. Melbourne Polytechnic may require an interview or portfolio. 3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once accepted, you'll get a CoE. Use it to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you meet all GTE, OSHC, and financial requirements. For personalised guidance, always contact Melbourne Polytechnic's international office.
Ready to start your veterinary nursing journey? Explore opportunities with Melbourne Polytechnic and apply today.
Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing is a CRICOS-registered programme at Melbourne Polytechnic. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.