Explore Programs
Veterinary Assistant
Overview
Learning outcomes and skills gained:
- Learn veterinary medical terminology, including prefixes, word roots, combining forms, and suffixes used in veterinary settings.
- Apply veterinary terminology across animal body systems, anatomy, physiology, diagnostics, and pathology.
- Identify anatomical terms for various animal species, including terminology related to age, sex, birthing and general animal descriptions.
- Develop foundational knowledge of veterinary practice, including ethics, legal considerations, safety protocols and practice management.
- Gain hands-on experience assisting with animal care, recognizing signs of illness, and supporting veterinary procedures.
Types of Jobs: Veterinary Assistant, Animal Care Technician, Veterinary Receptionist, Animal Shelter Assistant, Laboratory Animal Caretaker.
Prerequisite: Must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check.
Time Requirement to Complete Credential: Four-month, in-person program totaling 100 hours of classroom instruction, skills-based labs and activities.
Leading Industry Employers: Veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, animal shelters, zoos, wildlife organizations, farms and animal care facilities.
Get Started
Ready to take the next step in your educational journey? Go to the top right corner of the page and click the "Get Started" button to begin enrolling as a Metropolitan Community College student. Whether you are a first-time student, returning after time away or looking to take noncredit courses, taking this initial step is a major accomplishment. Start what's next today.
About this program
The MCC Veterinary Assistant Program is an in-person, instructor-led program that prepares participants to provide support in veterinary and animal care settings. Through classroom instruction, skills-based labs and hands-on activities, participants learn veterinary terminology, animal care practices, client communication, and the foundational skills needed to assist veterinary professionals.
Upon completion, participants will be prepared to take the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Veterinary Assistant (VET) Certification Exam. The exam is administered at the conclusion of the program and is proctored by MCC.
Who is this program for?
This program is designed for individuals interested in beginning a career working with animals in veterinary practices, animal hospitals, shelters, farms, kennels, and other animal care environments. It is also ideal for individuals seeking hands-on training and an industry-recognized certification to support career advancement.
Program Format and Length
The Veterinary Assistant Program is a four-month, in-person program consisting of 100 hours of classroom instruction, skills-based labs, and activities. Participants develop practical skills related to animal care, veterinary office procedures, client communication, and assist veterinarians during examinations.
Upon successful completion, participants will meet the requirements to take the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Veterinary Assistant (VET) Certification Exam.
Cost and Funding Opportunities
The cost of the Veterinary Assistant Program is $2,299 and includes textbooks, materials, and lab supplies
The NWCA Veterinary Assistant (VET) Certification Exam fee of $100 is paid separately.
Financial assistance may be available for eligible participants. Visit the Funding & Financial Assistance page to explore available funding options
Eligibility
Participants must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass a background check. Additional eligibility requirements may apply to sit for the National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Veterinary Assistant (VET) Certification Exam
The program is designed for individuals interested in developing the skills needed to support veterinary professionals and provide quality care for animals.
Metropolitan Community College complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and its amendments. If a prospective student who is otherwise qualified requires reasonable accommodation, they should contact the MCC Disability Support Services office.