Case Study: Samantha Morgan-Hourd

June 2025

“The best part of my time here has been the sense of community and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the field.”

Samantha Morgan-Hourd started the BSc (Hons) Veterinary Nursing Top-Up Degree programme in 2024. We caught up with Sam and asked her about her time on the course so far, and her plans for the future.

I am currently pursuing a BSc Veterinary Nursing top-up degree at The College of Animal Welfare. I chose this course because I started to feel out of date and concerned about my knowledge. Additionally, I always felt a personal desire to pursue and obtain a degree-level education. The comprehensive curriculum and the opportunity to deepen my understanding of veterinary nursing were key factors in my decision.

After completing my first year, I thoroughly enjoyed doing the literature review, which turned out to be the most challenging aspect as well. However, the sense of achievement I felt after completing something I never thought I would be capable of was incredible. This experience not only boosted my confidence but also reinforced my commitment to the field.

I chose to study at The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) due to the flexibility it offers. The ability to complete the degree part-time alongside my existing responsibilities and the online format, which negates the need to travel, allows me to study wherever I am. This flexibility has been crucial in balancing my studies with my work and personal life. The supportive faculty and the collaborative learning environment have also played a significant role in my positive experience at CAW. The best part of my time here has been the sense of community and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the field.

I have another three years left in this programme, but I am looking forward to the challenge. I want to keep passing on what I am learning to my students and hopefully achieve my ambition of having a degree at the end. My advice to others is to be brave and have a go. It is scary, but you will be so proud that you tried. The field of veterinary nursing is both demanding and rewarding, and a genuine passion for animal care will help you succeed.

Thinking about topping up your veterinary nursing qualification to degree level? Find out how…