Which study option should I choose?
For most courses you are provided with two study choices: Online e-Books only or both printed course notes + eBooks. With both methods you will need to have access to the internet to enter our iLearn Lounge learning platform.
Do I need to be employed to study vet nursing?
Our Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing requires students to be working as a veterinary nurse for the course duration. The veterinary nursing industry is highly practical and we find students benefit from the course much more when they are learning the practical skills on the job. While you look for a suitable position in order to complete your vet nursing qualification, why not consider studying an animal studies or pet technician course.
I don’t live near the AIRC office; can I still study through your RTO?
Yes. The AIRC offers students distance education courses to allow them to study from wherever they are located. Although we offer “hands on” practical days and the option of practical skills assessment at our AIRC Centres of Excellence, students are not obligated to participate in these. There is therefore no need for an AIRC student to travel in order to gain their qualification.
Are your courses available for international students?
We currently offer our courses within Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and UAE. If you are wishing to study within a different country, we would ask you to contact the AIRC Enrolment Team. International students wishing to study our courses within Australia must hold a suitable working visa for a suitable timeframe to complete the course in full.
Can high school students complete courses?
The AIRC offers a number of courses that are suitable for high school students to complete. These are recommended for grade 11 and grade 12 students only. As high school studies should be the student’s first priority we suggest you discuss your course options with your school vocational education coordinator before enrolling.
How do I choose my elective units?
The AIRC have chosen elective units that are suitable for the animal care and veterinary industries. Within our Certificate I in Animal Studies and Certificate II in Animal Studies we have suggested the electives you study in order to progress in your chosen career. For students enrolling into Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing we offer a variety of electives so you can tailor-make a course to suit your interests and your workplace’s needs.
I work with large animals, are your courses suitable?
The courses we offer are targeted at those working with companion animal (i.e. dogs, cats, birds, etc). Although some courses offer species specific units suitable for large animal and rural workplaces these would not offer all the knowledge and skills you may need in this sector.
I wish to volunteer to complete a course, where do I gain insurance for this?
The AIRC is not able to offer insurance for students studying our courses as volunteers. This is because we are not in the workplace to supervise you in your daily tasks. We request that students organise ther own insurance prior to enrolment. There are many insurance companies that offer personal volunteers insurance, so shop around for one that suits you.
I wish to complete a course as a trainee, how do I find out if I am eligible?
The first step in becoming a Government Trainee is to find an employer agreeable to this. The AIRC can accept trainees from QLD, NSW, VIC, ACT, SA, and TAS. As funding options vary in each state, please contact your local Australian Apprenticeship Centre and the AIRC enrolment team for more details.
I have experience in the animal care industry; can I gain credit transfers or recognition of prior learning?
The AIRC appreciated that many of our students have extensive industry experience and we are happy to discuss your individual needs for study.
We offer student that have completed previous units in relevant qualifications (generally animal care, veterinary nursing or business) a fast-track through assessment via direct credit transfer. Students are asked to submit a certified (JP signed) copy of their Statement of Attainment/Academic Transcript prior to enrolment. The AIRC will not charge for units that directly cross over into the students chosen course, and the student will not be required to study or be assessed on these units.
Students with extensive industry experience wishing to complete their qualification without the usual time and money involved in nationally recognized qualifications may wish to consider our Express Lane (RPL – recognition of prior learning) program. Express Lane students do not receive course materials for units they choose to RPL (as students first complete a self-assessment of the knowledge and skills that they have). Instead students move directly to the assessment stage and complete online discussion questions and quizzes to prove underpinning knowledge, and skills record logs and practical skills assessments in the workplace to prove their skills. Generally, Express Lane students are not asked to submit case study assignments, however additional evidence may be requested to showcase their experience within the industry.
Do I need to complete Certificate III in Companion Animal Services prior to enrolling into Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing?
As per the Animal Care and Management training package endorsed by the Australian federal government, Certificate III in Companion Animal Services is not a recognized pathway for veterinary nurses. Although students may choose to complete Certificate I in Animal Studies or Certificate II in Animal Studies prior to commencing their Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing, this is not essential. Students are welcome to commence directly into Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing through the AIRC.
I would like to complete some short online courses to build on my skills, what would you recommend?
Our partner company, Crampton Consulting Group have a suite of continuing education opportunities available online. To view courses that will interest you, go to www.provetccg.com.au.