• Austin Community College
    • Continuing Education
  • Learning
    • Career & Technical
      • Business
      • Computer & Technology
      • DMC & Applied Technologies
      • Education
      • Health Sciences
      • Public & Social Services
      • Science, Engineering & Math
    • Lifelong Learning
    • Corporate College
      • Business Partners
      • Global Partners
      • Public Partners
      • Community Education
    • Nonprofit Organizations
  • Schedule
    • Course Schedules
    • Your Course List
    • Academic Calendar
    • ...Or Search For A Course
  • Register
    • Course Registration
    • Campus Locations
    • Financial Assistance
    • Student Resources
  • Faculty
    • Faculty Evaluation
  • Contact
    • Get Answers
    • Student Advising
    • Program Coordinators
    • Asistencia en Español
    • College Directory

Veterinary Clinical Assistant

» Continuing Education » Health Sciences » Veterinary Clinical Assistant

» Continuing Education » Health Sciences » Veterinary Clinical Assistant

2023 Summer Semester Course Registration Begins April 3rd. Learn more. COVID-19 New Policies Effective 08/20. Learn More.

A Rewarding Career

If you love animals, then consider the emerging need for Veterinary Assistants in the Greater Austin area. As the population continues to expand, the number of pets is growing and creating an urgent need for caring and qualified veterinary clinical assistants.

Your Building Blocks to Success

The Austin Community College Veterinary Assistant Program is a two-semester apprenticeship program that can be completed in approximately 7-9 months. By combining hands-on learning with training in a veterinary hospital, this program will prepare you to launch a new career as a Certified Veterinary Assistant. The veterinary assistant program qualifies graduates to take the Texas Veterinary Medical Association CVA Level One exam and also articulates with the Veterinary Technology program at ACC. Contact the program coordinator for details.

Prerequisite

  • VTHT-1008: Orientation to Vet Medicine

Semester I

  • VTHT-1001: Intro to Vet Technology
  • VTHT-1013: Vet Anatomy & Physiology
  • VTHT-1009: Vet Nutrition
  • VTHT-1049: Vet Pharmacology

Semester II

  • VTHT-2023: Vet Clinical Pathology I
  • VTHT-1041: Anesthesia/Surgical Assistance
  • VTHT-2001: Canine/Feline Clinical Mgmnt.

Get Started Now

The program starts in the Fall and Spring of each year. Get your application in now as seats are limited. Please download the program application for information about the application and orientation process.

Register for Courses

Follow this tutorial to select courses, build your schedule, and register for CE courses.

2023 Spring Semester

2023 Spring Semester

Jan 3rd, 2023 - May 29th, 2023

View Schedule
2023 Summer Semester

2023 Summer Semester

May 30th, 2023 - Aug 20th, 2023

View Schedule

Request Info

Application

Program
Information

Tuition

$3,977.00 $1,988.50
Save 50% Thru Dec 31, 2023!

Additional Fees Apply

Payment Options

Fast Track Scholarship
Financial Assistance Available

Time Commitment

2 Semesters
20 Hours / Week

Certification

Certified Veterinary Assistant

Program FAQ's

View Program FAQ's

Career
Information

Median Salary

$35,133
New workers start around $28,054. Normal pay is $35,133 per year. Highly experienced workers can earn up to $44,438.

Annual Job Openings

201
Openings are regional vacancies due to growth and turnover in this career.

Program
Downloads

Program Application
Program Information
Print This Page

Contact
Information

Program Coordinator

Elizabeth Warren
Request Information
512-223-7692

Course Registration

512-223-7542
512-223-0124
ceregistration@austincc.edu

Let's Get Social

Facebook
YouTube

Students with Disabilities

Area of
Study Programs

Additional CE Programs
Return To Area of Study

Frequently Asked Questions

? What is the Veterinary Assistant Program?

This program is a two-semester basic certification course that combines classroom lecture with hands-on learning via an apprenticeship in a veterinary hospital. It can be completed in two semesters by students attending classes 10 hours per week and working at the apprenticeship site 10 hours a week. Training will focus on the skills required of back-office assistants.

The course sequence is as follows:

Semester 1 (160 hours)

  • VTHT-1001: Intro to Veterinary Technology
  • VTHT-1013: Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology
  • VTHT-1009: Veterinary Nutrition
  • VTHT-1049: Veterinary Pharmacology

Semester 2 (160 hours)

  • VTHT-2023: Clinical Pathology
  • VTHT-2001: Canine & Feline Clinical Management
  • VTHT-1041: Anesthesia & Surgical Assistance

? How long does it take to complete the program?

It will take two semesters if you complete all of the coursework and work hours required each semester.

? What is the admission process?

You can find the application here. Basically, you take an online orientation course, complete the application packet, and meet with a program coordinator to confirm your eligibility, check all of the required boxes (such as HS diploma/GED, HIPAA training, meningitis vaccine status), and receive counseling about the program and your career path in veterinary medicine. At this time, we want you to ask questions to be sure that you are fully prepared to enter the veterinary assistant program.

? When and where are classes held?

Classes are held at the ACC Riverside campus with one clinical in Semester 1 at Texas Humane Heroes animal shelter.

? What about the Apprenticeship?

At the time of your application to the veterinary assistant program, we will help you locate a facility that is hiring apprentices. You will apply to the facility of your choice and will be working for that business, just like a regular job. Before you start working at your apprenticeship site, you will complete a mandatory background check and drug screening.

At your apprenticeship site, you will complete a checklist of skills as you progress through the veterinary assistant program. If you are already working in the field, we will work with your employer to set up an apprenticeship arrangement with them so that you don’t need to get a second job.

? What is the attendance policy?

We require attendance in 90% of class hours in order to earn the certificate of completion and progress in the program. Your attendance at your work site should conform to the rules of that facility.

? How are grades determined?

This varies by class, but you can expect to do homework assignments (including assigned readings), complete written quizzes and exams, do lab work or group projects in class, and perform skills for practical exams (Semester 2 classes). A grade of "C" or better is required for progression in the program. There is no grade associated with the apprenticeship; it is pass/fail based on the hours you have worked and completion of your skills checklist. After meeting all program requirements, students earn a certificate of completion for the program and are eligible to take the Certified Veterinary Assistant Level One exam.

? What is the process for becoming certified as a Veterinary Assistant?

The Texas Veterinary Medical Association offers voluntary certification for veterinary assistants at three different levels. ACC VAP graduates are eligible to take the Level One exam upon completion of the program, and the Level Two exam after completing another 500 hours on the job.

? Do you offer job placement?

We will help you locate a practice for your apprenticeship, and we hope that you will want to continue on with that practice after you complete the veterinary assistant program. We have a facebook group for program alumni that often includes notifications of job openings in the area.

? What is the job market like for veterinary assistants in the Austin area?

There has never been a better time to be a veterinary assistant in Central Texas! There are hundreds of job openings each year, and only a small fraction of those applying for these jobs are Certified Veterinary Assistants. Completion of the veterinary assistant program courses and apprenticeship qualifies you to take the CVA exam. Certification puts you on a faster track to career advancement. Several of our former students are now in supervisory and management positions; some have gone on to become Licensed Veterinary Technicians; and a couple have even gone on to veterinary school and are now veterinarians!

? How much do classes cost?

Tuition varies depending on number of hours in the class and cost of materials used. For the entire program, tuition is $3,977.00, which ACC has discounted by 50% ($1,988.50)through May 2023.

? Is financial aid available?

Yes; please see http://continue.austincc.edu/costs/ for more information about grants, loans, and payment plans.

? Are courses taken in a particular order?

Courses in the Veterinary Clinical Assistant program are broken down into three semesters.

Prerequisite

  • VTHT-1008: Orientation to Vet Medicine

Semester I

  • VTHT-1001: Intro to Vet Technology
  • VTHT-1013: Vet Anatomy & Physiology
  • VTHT-1009: Vet Nutrition
  • VTHT-1049: Vet Pharmacology

Semester II

  • VTHT-2023: Vet Clinical Pathology I
  • VTHT-1041: Anesthesia/Surgical Assistance
  • VTHT-2001: Canine/Feline Clinical Mgmnt.

We Are Here To Help You

Program Coordinator

Our program coordinator is here to answer any questions you may have.

Request Info

Mailing List

Stay informed about this program by signing up for our free mailing list.

Join The List

Registration Help

Need help? Our friendly registration staff is here to provide assistance.

Contact Now

The Latest News, Delivered To You

Stay Current With Our Mailing Lists

Join our mailing list and be among the first to know about new and exciting events, lectures and interactive workshops in and around the Austin area. Additionally, you can also sign up to receive specific news from our Health Sciences department, which this program falls under.

Your Contact Information

What Our Students Are Saying

I know I probably haven't said it enough but thank you again for the knowledge and training you instilled in my brain. I had an opportunity to scrub in on a surgery today for the first time and without your training, would not have had a clue what to do! I still needed a little prompting since it's been a bit since our surgery and anesthesia class, but I have no doubt that the knowledge I gained in the VCA program at ACC was the key reason I was given this opportunity.

C. Graff

I completed the Veterinary Assistant Certificate in December of 2014. The program is very well structured and organized (shout-out to Elizabeth Warren!). English is my second language and although it was very challenging at times; I learned that hard work, dedication and patience will get you through the end!

As a class, we went to several sites to get hands on experience. My favorite site was Veterinary Surgical Solutions. I learned through the program that they were hiring. Shortly after, I became a part of the VSS team.

Going through the program helped me understand and be more knowledgeable of diseases/injuries and the science behind the different treatment options and how/why they are implemented in real practice. At VSS I'm able to apply my education as a Veterinary Assistant in a variety of ways: providing customer care, handling patient intake, conducting rechecks, consults, assisting with patient care and recovery, filling medications, obtaining laboratory specimens, taking radiographs, managing medical records, discharging patients after surgery, etc.

I highly recommend this certificate for anyone interested in the veterinary field. It provided me with invaluable skills and education that help me every day in my professional life. It helped me set the path for a job I love and where I get to make a difference in the lives of many!

Marian R.

This is a great program to get you started in the Veterinary Field. You will learn all the essentials from some wonderful LVT's to allow you to walk in any clinic and get a job. It's not just about puppy and kitten hugging, there is work involved but it's completely worth it, coming from someone who wanted to give up more than once, it's completely worth it. If this is something you want to do and you are serious about check it out.

D'via Martin

I've been in the field of veterinary medicine for almost 3 years and completed the ACC veterinary assistant program in 2013. This program has offered me a substantial amount of animal education that is very useful in my everyday field of work. These individual courses are very well planned and offer plenty of hands-on experience. The training I received from ACC in combination with my current position, I have been able to work/assist with a variety of animals including coatis, wolves, horses, goats, dogs, and cats etc. I'm very satisfied that I made the decision to join ACC VAP, because with the skills I've acquired I am now working as a small/large animal veterinary technician. I highly suggest anyone wanting to gain the knowledge of veterinary assisting to go through this program. I can't say enough how much I love my job, many thanks to the ACC veterinary assistant program.

Diana Murillo

I've been in the field of veterinary medicine for almost 5 years and I completed the ACC veterinary assistant program in 2014. My education has had a significant impact on my career and my current place of employment. The classes are well taught and I have had the chance to apply everything I've learned. I've had the opportunity to help open a practice with a wonderful doctor and staff in Pflugerville. Due to my educational background and dedication I am now working as a surgical technician and excel in client education. I've had the chance to connect with other professionals in the field and I've had opportunities to attend many events and seminars to further my education. I am so glad I made the decision to be apart of this program and I strongly encourage others with an interest in the veterinary field to pursue their education with ACC.

Stephanie Chaney

I have been working in the veterinary field for about 5 years and completed the veterinary assistant program In 2012. The veterinary assistant program has influenced my career a lot; I learned hands-on how to better my technical skills and client care specialist skills. I can't imagine doing anything else--becoming a veterinary assistant is the best choice I've made!

Vanessa Martinez

As a professional in the animal health and welfare field, I feel lucky to have gone through the ACC Veterinary Assistant Program. The classes are well rounded, challenging and impeccably taught. The importance of hands-on learning in this field is huge, and this program offered up many opportunities to learn things by jumping in and doing them. I could not have asked for better preparation for my career as a veterinary assistant and clinic supervisor. As part of the program, I was able to make connections with veterinary professionals in the Austin area which have been instrumental in my professional development. The ACC VAP has been a great benefit to me and is a great asset to our veterinary community. I am proud to have been a part of it.

Elsa Kohlbus

Veterinary Clinical Assistant

We're Here to Help You Get Started

Program Information: http://continue.austincc.edu/veterinary
Program Coordinator: Elizabeth Warren @ 512-223-7692 | ewarren@austincc.edu

A Rewarding Career

If you love animals, then consider the emerging need for Veterinary Assistants in the Greater Austin area. As the population continues to expand, the number of pets is growing and creating an urgent need for caring and qualified veterinary clinical assistants.

Your Building Blocks to Success

The Austin Community College Veterinary Assistant Program is a two-semester apprenticeship program that can be completed in approximately 7-9 months. By combining hands-on learning with training in a veterinary hospital, this program will prepare you to launch a new career as a Certified Veterinary Assistant. The veterinary assistant program qualifies graduates to take the Texas Veterinary Medical Association CVA Level One exam and also articulates with the Veterinary Technology program at ACC. Contact the program coordinator for details.

Prerequisite

  • VTHT-1008: Orientation to Vet Medicine

Semester I

  • VTHT-1001: Intro to Vet Technology
  • VTHT-1013: Vet Anatomy & Physiology
  • VTHT-1009: Vet Nutrition
  • VTHT-1049: Vet Pharmacology

Semester II

  • VTHT-2023: Vet Clinical Pathology I
  • VTHT-1041: Anesthesia/Surgical Assistance
  • VTHT-2001: Canine/Feline Clinical Mgmnt.

Get Started Now

The program starts in the Fall and Spring of each year. Get your application in now as seats are limited. Please download the program application for information about the application and orientation process.

Veterinary Clinical Assistant Program Information

Tuition

$3,977.00
Books & Fees Not Included

Payment Options

Financial Assistance Available

Time Commitment

2 Semesters
20 Hours / Week

Certification

Certified Veterinary Assistant

Median Salary

$35,133

Job Market

201

Start Your Journey

  •   Register For A Class
  •   Speak With An Advisor
  •   Career Services For Students
  •   Come Teach For Us

Upcoming Events

December 31 @ 11:59 PM
50% Off Select CE Programs

It's What We Do

We develop and deliver innovative and accessible programs to meet the needs of both individual Austinites and the organizations that employ them.

Follow Us

© 2023 Austin Community College. All Rights Reserved. :: Admin Area

Learning Never Stops Neither Should You