VETERINARY ASSISTANT CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
ATTENTION: Registration for classes may close up to seven (7) days before the class start date.
For registration call #609-570-3311 or email noncreditReg@mccc.edu
For additional information call #609-570-3122 or email noncrediths@mccc.edu
To avoid unnecessary purchases, please do not buy textbooks until seven (7) days before the class start date, as classes are subject to change or cancellation. Be sure to monitor your email up to three (3) days prior to the start of your class for important updates or notifications.
This newly expanded Veterinary Assistant Program in collaboration with Princeton Animal Hospital and NorthStar Vets is approved through the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). Students who complete the program in its entirety are eligible to sit for the national exam to earn the designation of Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA).
Veterinary assistants serve as integral members of the veterinary team under direct supervision of the veterinarian or a veterinary technician. Trained veterinary assistants offer added value to a veterinary practice and an AVA certificate in veterinary assisting recognizes that a veterinary assistant candidate has obtained the proper training and can perform all entry level duties, making valuable contributions to the entire veterinarian team.
Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; a clear understanding of written and spoken English; proof of personal health insurance.
To earn the certificate, the student must successfully complete the Veterinary Assistant Course and the Clinical Externship.
Veterinary Assistant (includes Modules 1-4)
(Students must pass each module to move on to the next module.)
Module 1: Introduction to the Veterinary Profession - 39 hours
Module 2: Nursing Skills-Part I - 42 hours
Module 3: Nursing Skills-Part II - 42 hours
Module 4: Laboratory Skills - 39 hours
Clinical Externship - 100 hours
Textbook is required and available in the college bookstore.
Instructors:Patrick Trusdell, CVT; Wilma Abbott, CVT; Jackie O'Malley, CVT
262 hours (162 classroom and 100 clinical). Successful graduates are eligible to sit for the National Approved Veterinary Assistant
MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO THE VETERINARY PROFESSION (Remote)
This session will provide you with an overview of the profession of veterinary medicine and the role of each member of the veterinary team. You will learn practice management skills including office and hospital procedures and client relations. Other topics include: common canine, feline and equine breeds; medical terminology; pharmacy and pharmacology skills.
Offered Summer
Cost: $850
MODULE 2: NURSING SKILLS - PART I
Learn how to effectively assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with examinations and surgical procedures. Understand the skills needed to play a role in the treatment and prevention of disease. Other topics include: basic anatomy, restraint, animal husbandry, first aid, and vital signs monitoring.
Offered Fall
Cost: $850
MODULE 3: NURSING SKILLS - PART II
Learn how to effectively assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with examinations and surgical procedures. Understand the skills needed to play a role in the treatment and prevention of disease. Other topics include: basic anatomy, restraint, animal husbandry, first aid, and vital signs monitoring.
Offered Spring
Cost: $850
MODULE 4: LABORATORY SKILLS
Receive an introduction to the diagnostic tools used in veterinary practice and learn the skills needed to assist the veterinary team. Common veterinary laboratory diagnostics will be covered as well as lab record keeping. This module will also provide you with a chance to review and prepare for the clinical externship.
Offered Spring
Cost: $850
CLINICAL EXTERNSHIP
Prerequisite: Veterinary Assistant Modules 1-4
All students will be required to complete the clinical externship at a pre-approved veterinary setting to earn the Veterinary Assistant Certificate. Students will be required to purchase a uniform for this module and must have proof of personal insurance. This 100-hour externship will be arranged for each student with the veterinary site.