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Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP - Companion Animal) (Level 4 Award) (subject to awarding body approval)

VetSkill
Science

Course Overview

The VetSkill VTEC Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal) is a nationally-recognised qualification designed for learners wishing to become Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) authorised to prescribe and supply POM-VPS and NFA-VPS veterinary medicines for companion animals. This qualification equips learners with the specialist knowledge, professional competencies, and legal understanding required to support responsible medicines use in veterinary practices, pet retail environments, and other premises registered to supply veterinary medicines.This award is ideal for:Those working in veterinary practice, SQP-approved retailers, pet shops, or veterinary pharmacies. Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) wishing to expand their professional responsibilities.Individuals entering the sector who wish to gain accredited authority to advise on and supply medicines for dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets. No prior veterinary qualification is required, although experience in a VMD-registered premises is beneficial. Successful learners gain eligibility to be listed on the VetSkill Register of Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs) as a Companion Animal SQP (C-SQP).
  • Start Date
    10 Sept 2026
  • Study Mode
    Part-Time
  • Duration
    20 Weeks
  • Campus
    Limavady

Important Message

Fees must be paid at the time of enrolment, or arrangements should be put in place to pay by instalments. The full fee includes tuition, registration and examination fees (where relevant). Depending on your circumstances you may be entitled to a reduced (concessionary) fee. Reduced fees are applied to the cost of tuition only. Failure to enrol before the Awarding Body deadline may result in you incurring a late fee.

Available Sessions

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  • Course: VetSkill VTEC Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP - Companion Animal) (subject to awarding body approval) Ref L044
    Campus: Limavady
    Type: Part Time
    Start Date: 10/09/2026
    (Thu:9:30AM-1:00PM /)
    Fees:
     Full £400.00
    Concession £160.00
    Examination £215.00
    Apply now

You may be eligible for funding on this course *

If you are an employer or employee of a NI based company

* Terms and Conditions apply

Course Offering

  • Site location Limavady Main St
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Fees & Finance Information
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Entry Requirements

UK Requirements

Learners undertaking this programme may already have completed a Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing and be an RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) or be a layperson with no prior veterinary-related qualifications.Employment or work experience within a Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) registered premises, a veterinary practice registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), or a retail pharmacy registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) may be beneficial in assisting in preparation towards the final assessment.The nature of both the learning and assessment is such that basic literacy and numeracy skills are required.

Additional Information

If you’re passionate about companion animal health and want to step into a high-trust professional role, this qualification opens the door to a respected career pathway with real responsibility and recognition. This award doesn’t just teach you information—it gives you professional authority. As an SQP, you will be legally empowered to prescribe and supply POM-VPS and NFA-VPS medicines for dogs, cats, rabbits, and ferrets, supporting the health and wellbeing of thousands of pets.

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Meet our students

  • Image of Vanessa Canning (Hair & Beauty)
    My time at NWRC gave me the confidence to open my own Beauty Salon. Now I'm a part-time lecturer for the College.
    Vanessa Canning (Hair & Beauty)
  • Image of Roberta Deehan (HLA in Hospitality and Tourism Management)
    It made sense for me to study in an area where I could work alongside my studies. There is a huge benefit to the HLA because you can study locally, there’s no course fees and you learn about the industry while you’re working. There are so many employment opportunities!
    Roberta Deehan (HLA in Hospitality and Tourism Management)

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