Program Description

This program trains the student for entry-level positions in kennels, veterinary offices, shelters and animal hospitals. Students will be trained in the areas of nutrition, veterinary services, pharmacological applications, handling procedures and ethical practices.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Veterinary Assistant program is to prepare students so that they may provide local veterinary clinics/offices with well-trained Veterinary Assistants. Graduates will be able to understand animal welfare and the fundamentals of assisting in the veterinary care of animal companions. Our faculty and staff will strive to uphold the highest standards of the industry, providing knowledgeable graduates to join the profession.

Entrance Requirements

High school diploma or GED

• An approved criminal background check is required.
• A negative 10-panel drug screen is required.
• Students are required to have documentation of Tetanus vaccination within the past ten (10) years.
• Students must attend an Animal Studies Department Career Talk before beginning the program preferably but within the first semester. (Career Talk valid for one year.)

Type of Program

Day

Location

This program is located at the Northwest Campus. Students should see an advisor at the Northwest Campus to register for classes.

Requirements for Completion

• Students must be able to attend all supervised work internship experiences.
• Students must purchase required supplies and uniforms.
• To complete this certificate program, students must obtain a minimum grade of “C” in all courses.

Employment Opportunities

Animal shelters, private veterinary practices, humane societies, animal hospitals, laboratories, veterinary care facilities

Visit our web page at https://www.gvltec.edu/animal_studies/.

Listed below is the ideal grouping of courses in order by semester. This plan assumes a full-time schedule. Note, however, that many variables can affect this plan, and not every course is offered every semester. Please see your advisor to map out your own personalized progression toward graduation.

Note: Please contact your advisor for recommended evening schedules.

Plan of Study Grid

First Semester		Hours
VET 106	Small Animal Behavior/Kennel Management	4
VET 111	Intro. to Veterinary Medical Terminology	3
or VET 113	Introduction to Veterinary Technology
VET 151	Veterinary Assisting I	3
VET 242	Vet Law, Ethics and Client Relations	3
	Total Semester Hours	13
Second Semester
VET 114	Pharmacy Skills	4
VET 117	Animal Nutrition	2
VET 166	SCWE in Veterinary Practice	2
VET 251	Veterinary Assisting II	2
	Total Semester Hours	10
	Total Required Credit Hours	23