Career Studies Certificate in Veterinary Assistant

Career Studies Certificate: Veterinary Assistant (221-188-04)

The Career Studies Certificate program in Veterinary Assistant prepares students to assist and support licensed veterinary technicians and veterinarians in the health and handling of a variety of small domestic animals and exotic species. Veterinary Assistants perform receptionist functions, assist in filling prescriptions, keep exam rooms and kennels cleaned and prepped, set up lab work, assist with inventory, update medical records, assist with nursing care, assist with surgical preparation and procedure, assist with radiography, interact with clients, etc. The college has achieved approval of its program by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). Upon graduation from a NAVTA approved Veterinary Assistant Program, a participant is eligible to sit for the national examination and upon successful completion will be designated an Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA).

Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the Veterinary Assistant Program, with 15-18 students admitted to the program each fall semester. Selection is highly competitive with entrance requirements for this program to include: high school graduation or a GED, college admission, VPT placement into ENG 111, VPT placement into MTH 111 or successful completion of an equivalent or higher level college math class, letter of recommendation, and personal interview with the Program Director. For additional information regarding admission, continuance, and graduation requirements, go to tcc.edu (search keywords "veterinary assistant").

Courses required for the Career Studies Certificate in Veterinary Assistant degree are primarily available on the Virginia Beach campus.

The Veterinary Assistant program is approved by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.