LANTRA Level 2 Diploma Veterinary Care and Animal Welfare

For learners wishing to work in the veterinary and land-based sectors, studying a nationally recognised qualification to enhance your ability to work safely, effectively and efficiently in the workplace. Full time learners will be on campus for theory and practical learning but also spend time in practical placements.

Locations: Aberdeen, Barony, Oatridge
Study mode: full time (1 year), Distance learning (1 year)
Start date: September 2025
Duration: 1 years
Agency code: VCW1

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Course overview

Full time learners have blended learning with a range of theory teaching on campus and online with practical learning and a proportion of time in practical placement enhancing employability as well as furthering knowledge.

The course is suitable for careers such as a veterinary care assistant, animal welfare assistant, animal day care assistant, pet retail assistant, kennel/cattery assistant, veterinary receptionist, and provides an excellent introduction for those wishing to progress to further training such as veterinary nursing.

Additional Information

: You can apply for this course using the apply now button located at the top and bottom of this page. Detailed information on how to apply can be found on our applications instructions page.

International students can also speak with a local authorised agent in their country who can assist you in applying for this course. Find your local agent by visiting our SRUC in your country page.
: You'll be expected to have a minimum of 4 National 5s (A-C) (preferably English, Maths and a science – equivalent qualifications will be considered).

Desirable but not essential - A minimum of two weeks work experience in an animal related environment.

For distance learning, it is essential to be employed in a veterinary practice.

All applications are assessed individually on their own merit.

Specific academic and English language requirements may apply for international students. For country-specific details, please see our dedicated international entry criteria page.
: Take a look around the SRUC Virtual Experience for lots of great student videos and examples of what it’s like to study our courses, along with campus and facility tours.
: SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.
: Scotland has so much to offer, it’s no wonder that each year thousands of students from across the globe make it their number one choice for their study destination.

Learn more about studying at SRUC in Scotland
: SRUC offers a choice of campus locations and accommodation options. Learn more about each campus, including its facilities and accommodation options, by visiting our campus pages.
: Phone:

From inside the UK: 0800 269 453
British Sign Language (BSL) users can contact us through an interpreter via Contact Scotland BSL

From outside the UK: +44 (0) 131 535 4000

Email:

Scottish, Irish, and UK students: study@sruc.ac.uk

International students: interrnationalstudents@sruc.ac.uk

Online:

All prospective students are welcome to contact us by filling in our online enquiry form
: HND Animal Care

Level 3 Veterinary Nursing

HND Rural Animal Health

BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare Science

What you'll learn

This is a new qualification with an up to date mix of theoretical and practical aspects of the key topics listed here. There are six core modules including small animal biology (theory only) and three veterinary care support pathway modules.

Assessment will be logged within an online portfolio and is commonly considering practical learning as well as theory.

The online distance learning course offers an operational/reception pathway as an optional alternative to the veterinary care pathway.

Example modules






: This module is theory only.
: This module includes medical nursing care, surgical nursing care, and diagnostic techniques.

Meet the lecturer

Callie Inglis

Teaching Associate, Barony Campus Programme lead

I graduated as a Registered Veterinary Nurse in 2014 from SRUC Barony Campus. I then went on to work in a mixed animal practice before coming back to Barony as a Teaching Associate in 2022. I'm very proud to have studied and graduated from SRUC Barony and am able to offer the same support I received as a student.

As a teaching associate, I find the most rewarding moments to be when students have their lightbulb moments when everything clicks, and their confidence builds. Graduation day is another highlight of my role, I am able to witness the hard work and dedication students have put into their studies and what they have achieved.

I am passionate about providing a supportive and inspiring learning environment and look forward to continuing to help students reach their full potential.

Get in touch

Fees and funding

Full-time students of Level 2 Diploma Veterinary Care and Animal Welfare can apply for a Further Education Bursary. Learn more

Once you’ve accepted a place, we’ll email the bursary funding online application. Complete the application and return it along with any required documents. You should apply even if you're still waiting for exam results.

Tuition fees are waived for students who qualify for a bursary.

Tuition fees for this course:

Scottish students: £1,008
RUK students: £6,750
International students: £6,750

More detailed information about these fees can be found on our further education fees page.

Funding available:

RUK students: you may be eligible to have your tuition fees paid as part of a bursary through your local government department. Learn more
International students: you may be eligible for international student scholarships through SRUC. Learn more