Undergraduate Certificate Level 4 in Small Animal Hydrotherapy

Develop your expertise in small animal hydrotherapy with a course designed in collaboration with leading industry bodies and endorsed by the Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (ICH), part of the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP), and the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

This career-focused programme provides hands-on experience in both pool and water-treadmill based hydrotherapy, delivered at our on-site commercial hydrotherapy centre, Empowered Canine Physio. Students will gain essential skills by working directly with real clients while developing a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology, small animal health and disease, and the principles of hydrotherapy. The course also includes an embedded small animal first aid qualification, an essential requirement for professional hydrotherapists that is endorsed by both IRVAP and the CHA.

For graduates of relevant degrees, such as veterinary physiotherapy, there may be opportunities for recognition of prior learning, allowing them to focus on the specialist hydrotherapy modules. Whether you're looking to start a career in small animal hydrotherapy or enhance your existing skills, this course provides the specialist knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in this growing field.

This level four qualification has been designed in conjunction with the small animal hydrotherapy professional bodies that operate in the UK to ensure that students have the relevant skills to practice as a small animal hydrotherapist. It is endorsed by the Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (ICH) / Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP) and the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA). Upon successful completion of this course it would allow for application to membership of the ICH subgroup of IRVAP as a Canine Hydrotherapist, and to the CHA as a Qualified Hydrotherapist.

There are a limited number of places on this course each year, we advise submitting your application promptly. Fee information can be found on our Tuition fees page.