Are you considering applying for the ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing course? If you’re unsure which study mode is the best choice for you, we offer various options designed to fit different lifestyles and commitments, ensuring you can find the one that suits your needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the three Vet Nursing study modes available at AVT.
1. Full-time on-campus
- Duration: 1 year
- Commitment: 2 days a week at AVT + 2 days a week in veterinary practice work placement
- Home study: Minimum 8 hours per week
- Recommended for: Those able to dedicate themselves to full-time studies for one year
If you’re ready to immerse yourself in your studies, the full-time on-campus mode is the way to go. With a commitment of two days a week at AVT and another two days in a veterinary practice work placement, this mode offers an intensive learning experience.
You will love this option if you prefer face-to-face classroom activities in an environment where you will learn by participating in group activities and completing practical training sessions with other like-minded students and real animals. You will also have daily access to our Trainers and Assessors, as well as our Student Support team.
This mode is perfect for individuals who can focus solely on their studies, as in addition to the on-campus and work placement commitments, you will require a minimum of 8 hours of at-home study per week. Keep in mind that this option might limit your availability for paid work and other commitments.
On-campus
- Duration: 18 months
- Commitment: 1 day a week at AVT + 1 day a week in veterinary practice work placement
- Home study: Minimum 4-6 hours per week
- Recommended for: Those seeking to balance work, family and studies
If you are ready to immerse yourself in your studies, the on-campus mode is the way to go. With one day a week at AVT and another day in a veterinary practice work placement, this mode allows you to study alongside others under the instruction of our highly experienced trainers.
As the course is spread over 18 months, you’ll benefit from regular access to our Trainers and Assessors, along with ongoing support from our Student Support Team.
For this mode, you’ll need to set aside a minimum of 4-6 hours of at-home study per week. This workload allows you to progress steadily through the course while maintaining a healthy balance between your studies and other life commitments, such as a part-time or casual job.
Blended learning
- Duration: 18 months
- Commitment: Combination of virtual and on-campus workshops + 1 day a week in veterinary practice work placement
- Home study: 4-6 hours per week
- Recommended for: WA based students looking for a mix of virtual and in-person learning experiences
Blended learning combines the best of online and in-person study. You’ll complete most of your coursework online but also join live virtual classroom sessions and tutorials, to stay connected with your trainers and classmates.
Over 18 months, you’ll also engage in scheduled on-campus workshops during school holidays and have the opportunity for a one-on-one support session each month.
With a work placement at a veterinary practice one day per week and a minimum of 4-6 hours of online study, this mode caters to learners who appreciate a mix of learning environments.
Online learning
- Duration: Up to 2 years
- Commitment: Self-paced learning + 1 day a week in veterinary practice work placement
- Home study: 12-16 hours per week
- Recommended for: Students employed in a veterinary practice and/or living in another state
If you’re seeking ultimate flexibility, the online learning mode might be your ideal choice. This mode is recommended for students in regional WA and other states of Australia.
This mode gives you the flexibility to choose an approved clinic that fits your schedule and location. You’ll have access to online textbooks, videos, articles and question forums, allowing you to engage with the course material at your own pace. Plus, help from our Trainers and Assessors and Student Support team is just a click away.
With 12-16 hours of at-home study per week, this mode offers the freedom to tailor your study schedule around your work and/or personal life.
“Don’t underestimate the value of choosing a study mode that aligns with your lifestyle. It’s one of the first and most important steps in setting yourself up for success.”
Dr Anne Beugelaar, Veterinary Nursing Program Manager
How do they compare?
| Course Features | On-campus | Blended | Online |
|---|---|---|---|
| Face-to-face On-campus Training | 1 day per week | 5 x Workshops | |
| Online Coursework | 4-6 hours per week | 4-6 hours per week | 12-16 hours per week |
| Live Virtual Classes and Tutorials | |||
| Work Placement | |||
| Flexibility | Structured schedule - regular on-campus attendance | Moderate flexibility - mix of online and scheduled activities | Most flexibility - study anywhere, anytime |
| Trainer Support | Face-to-face plus phone, chat, email or video | Monthly support call plus phone, chat, email or video | Phone, chat, email or video as needed |
Still unsure? We're here to help
Choosing the right study mode can be a challenging decision, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our friendly Student Support team can help you find the perfect fit for your circumstances. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or managing your time, we can discuss the study modes so you can find the best fit for your journey.
Speak to our friendly
Student Support team
3) Blended Learning:
Duration: 2 years
Commitment: Combination of virtual and on-campus sessions + 1 day a week in veterinary practice work placement
Study: Minimum 4 hours per week
Recommended for: Those looking for a mix of virtual and in-person learning experiences
If you are WA based, this is a great option if you cannot attend campus regularly but are seeking more guidance and interaction with our AVT Trainer and Assessors. Over the course of two years, you’ll engage in virtual classroom lectures and tutorials, complemented by scheduled on-campus workshops during school holidays. You’ll also have the opportunity for a one-on-one Support Session each month. With a work placement at a veterinary practice one day per week and a minimum of 4-6 hours of online study, this mode caters to learners who appreciate a mix of learning environments.
Start your Vet Nurse career pathway
Start your Pathway
ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Vet Nursing Pathway)
About Vet Nurse Pathway
Vet Nursing Pathway
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ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
About Vet Nursing
