The Certificate of Achievement in Veterinary Assisting is designed to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills required to perform effectively as an assistant in a veterinarian’s office, animal shelter or animal research facility. The two-semester program includes coursework in life sciences as well as hands-on experience in live animal laboratories.
The Certificate of Achievement in Veterinary Assisting (VETA) is also considered a component of the Associate in Science in Veterinary Technology (VETT). Veterinary Assisting courses count towards advanced studies in Veterinary Technology. Thus the VETA certificate and VETT degree are stackable credentials. Students enrolled in the VETA certificate can apply to the VETT degree. Admission to the VETT degree is competitive. Prospective students with credits to transfer should contact a counselor for a transcript evaluation
Admission Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be 18 years or older by the first day of instruction
- Attend an information session
- Submit an application to Windward Community College and complete health clearance requirements through Admissions & Records office
- Place into ENG 100 and MATH 101
- Show proof of health insurance
Students in the program must attain and maintain a grade of “C” or better in each of the core classes and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. If a student withdraws or make below a grade of “C” in a core class, the student may not progress in the program until the course has been repeated successfully. Core classes may only be repeated once; students failing to make a grade “C” or better in a course that has been repeated may be dismissed from the program. Course repetition will be based on instructor approval and program resources. There is a $100 professional fee each semester. Fees are subject to increase based on program cost and institutional approval.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this certificate, students will be able to:
- Effectively communicate with clients and veterinary staff
- Schedule appointments and generate invoices
- Identify common breeds of companion animals, list their nutritional requirements and husbandry needs, and describe the anatomy and functions of major body systems.
- Assist with physical exams and obtain patient histories.
- Demonstrate proper patient restraint and safety procedures
- Conduct routine physical exams and obtain patient histories
- Calculate dosages and administer medications
- Collect blood samples and perform diagnostic laboratory tests