Program Overview

Grad Cert Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Anaesthesia)

Overview

This certificate will allow nurses to develop and advance their skills to enable them to become reflective practitioners and implement evidence-based improvements to the management of anaesthetic cases in practice. It will further develop and extend knowledge of the anatomical structures and physiological processes relevant to anaesthesia. It will advance technical knowledge of legislation, pharmacology and equipment related to anaesthetic processes and develop a deeper understanding of veterinary anaesthetic nursing in order to advance current skills and patient care.

Entry Requirements

• You must be a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN).
• Typically, applicants with a registerable qualification from a Further Education background will enrol on the Graduate Certificate.
• Typically, applicants with a Higher Education (degree) background will enrol on the Postgraduate Certificate.
• The most appropriate qualification for individual applicants will be considered depending on their individual profile.
• You will also need time, energy and commitment.

Course Key Info

• Start date: 11th September 2025
• Applications close: 31st July 2025
• Duration: 1 year (part time)
• Location: Online/blended learning and Harper Adams University campus
• Accredited by: Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS)

Course Modules

• Year 1
  • Evidence-based Nursing (A5003HF) | 20
  • Graduate Physiology and Pharmacology for Anaesthesia (A6001HF) | 20
  • Graduate Anaesthetic Nursing (A6000HF) | 20

Teaching and Assessment

• Delivery will be by a combination of distance learning and optional study days where guest speakers, seminars and practical classes support the modules.
• A range of distance learning methods will be used, including study notes, email and Harper Adams’ interactive virtual learning environment ‘The Learning Hub’.
• Access to a computer and broadband internet is essential.
• Modules will be assessed by a range of methods, including assignments end of module examination, and practical exams.
• Support in assessment skills is available for those who have not sat an examination recently.

Fees and Costs

• Grad Cert course fee (2025): £5,100 for domestic students, part-time study
• RCVS Registration fee (2025): £84 payable at the start of the course
• RCVS Certification fee: £212 payable to RCVS at the end of the course
• Students may be eligible for student finance. Check the Student Finance page on the Gov.uk website.
• Other sources of financial help are available, including a wide range of scholarships, Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA), and the Access to Learning fund.