Veterinary Assistant, A.A.S.

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This program provides the knowledge and animal handling skills required to be an integral team player within veterinary practices, research facilities, or other animal-related facilities. Students will learn to recognize behavioral signs and to care for a patient’s basic needs under the direction of the veterinarian or designate. In addition, students will learn veterinary practice management skills including cleaning facilities and equipment, booking appointments, communicating with clients, and other receptionist duties. Students become skilled in the care and handling of small and large animals, as well as office management.

General Education Requirements

Students should refer to the Graduation Requirements .

Total General Education Requirements: 19-21 Credits

Core and Elective courses taken as part of completion of a degree program may also be used to meet General Education requirements where applicable. Please note that use of these courses to meet General Education requirements may reduce the number of hours required to complete a degree, however that number cannot be reduced below the institutional minimum of 60 credits.

Core Courses

ANSC 1024 - Introduction to Animal Science (4)
ANSC 1330 - Veterinary Practice Orientation (3)
ANSC 1970-Clinic Internship (3)
ANSC 2020 - Feeds and Feeding (4)
or
EQST 1510 - Equine Nutrition (2)
ANSC 2320 - Livestock Health Management (2)
ANSC 2430 - Comparative Anatomy and Physiology of Domestic Animals (4)
ANSC 2970—Animal Care Internship (clinical experience) (3)
AECL 2395 - Agriculture Science Research Methods (2) (Capstone Course)

Total Core Courses: 22-24 Credits

Recommended Electives

Students are encouraged to gain additional work experience through the summer months at a veterinary practice in their home area. Additional courses may be selected from animal science, equine science or business.