PGCert Advanced Veterinary Nursing (GradCertAVN / PGCertAVN) at Royal Veterinary College

Programme overview

A part-time, distance-learning advanced qualification for practising Registered Veterinary Nurses, awarded by the Royal Veterinary College and the University of London. Applicants enrol on the level 6 Graduate Certificate (GradCertAVN) or the level 7 Postgraduate Certificate (PGCertAVN) depending on their entry qualifications. Pathways in Medical Nursing, Emergency and Critical Care, and Anaesthesia and Analgesia are accredited by the RCVS and can also lead to the RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing.

Department: Centre for Veterinary Nursing | Intake: May (Contemporary Study Skills module starts May to July); apply by 1 Feb 2027 | Study mode: part-time distance learning | Location: London, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The course comprises the 15-credit Contemporary Study Skills module (May to July), the 15-credit Fundamentals in Advanced Veterinary Nursing Practice module (September to December) and 45 credits of designation elective modules (January to July) chosen from a pathway list.

Career pathways

Graduates are positioned for specialised roles in clinical practice, with enhanced ability to influence patient health and welfare and to contribute to clinical teams.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Postgraduate Certificate (level 7): applicants must hold a BSc VN, the RVC Graduate Diploma or another FHEQ level 6 qualification. Graduate Certificate (level 6): applicants must hold an RCVS Level 3 Diploma, a previous RCVS Certificate, an FdSc VN or an RCVS DipAVN (a qualification below FHEQ level 6). For both: be on the current RCVS Register of Veterinary Nurses (or hold a recognised accredited overseas equivalent), be employed in or have agreed access to a suitable professional clinical environment (general practice meeting at least RCVS PSS tier 2 or TP standard), have the support of the employing practice, and have completed the Contemporary Study Skills bridging short course unless exempted. A letter of reference and employer approval is required with the application. English language: GCSE English Language grade 4/C or an acceptable alternative; IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component. Application deadline: 1 February 2027. RCVS CertAVP candidates must also enrol with the RCVS (initial enrolment fee GBP 91 and GBP 229 on completion, as at August 2026).

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,800 for the whole programme Source

International applicants: GBP 7,200 for the whole programme Source

Intake: May (Contemporary Study Skills module starts May to July); apply by 1 Feb 2027

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