Program Overview
This online Veterinary Assisting Certificate Program provides fundamental knowledge and skills for working as a veterinary assistant. The curriculum covers animal handling, medical terminology, surgical assistance, and emergency care. Graduates are prepared for employment opportunities with a salary range of $27,000 to $208,000 and a projected job growth of +14.3%.
Program Outline
Outline:
The program comprises 3 courses totaling 12.5 units, and is delivered entirely online. The coursework covers fundamental knowledge and skills for working as a veterinary assistant in collaboration with veterinarians and veterinary nurses. It emphasizes professional conduct in veterinary medical settings, applicable to various medical and professional work environments. The curriculum includes:
- Veterinary Assisting I (V T 52A): Introduces the role and responsibilities of a veterinary assistant, encompassing animal handling, restraint, and examination procedures, medical terminology, nutrition, pharmacology, and client communications. (5.0 units)
- Veterinary Assisting II (V T 52B): Delves into advanced veterinary assisting techniques, including surgical assistance, anesthesia and monitoring, radiology, laboratory procedures, and emergency and critical care. (5.0 units)
- Clinical Preceptorship I (V T 88A): Provides practical, on-the-job training under the supervision of a qualified veterinary professional while working in a veterinary clinic or hospital setting for at least 7.5 hours per week. (2.5 units)
Careers:
Completion of the Veterinary Assisting Certificate Program opens doors to employment opportunities as a veterinary assistant. The industry offers a salary range spanning from $27,000 to over $208,000, with an average salary of $55,000. Projected job growth for veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers from 2019 to 2029 is a promising +14.3%.