Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate Please login to Apply

Program Description

Be the important member of the veterinary office team that has essential administrative skills. Learn the common health issues of companion animals. Topics covered include financial management, veterinary computer software, client care, and veterinary terminology. Students also learn clinical assisting skills in animal handling and surgical instrument preparation. Graduates have excellent employment prospects with a high rate of recruitment.

Time commitment

This is a one-year (two term) certificate program. A standard course load is five courses per term. Students can maintain full time status with at least three courses. Taking less than five courses per term will take longer to complete the program.

Courses are available both in class and online. Please note that not all courses may be available online each semester. Consult with Academic Advising Team to assist with your program planning. 
For courses with scheduled final exams, they are required to be completed in person or at an approved invigilation site.  

Field Placement (Optional)

Field Placement offers you the opportunity to use your new skills in the workplace, receive strong mentorship, gain valuable experience, and enjoy networking opportunities. Field Placement is offered as an unpaid, non-credit work placement scheduled immediately following the successful completion of all required courses.

Applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and follow the application process to be accepted into Field Placement. The application process aligns with the competitive nature of a job search and candidates are responsible for demonstrating a high level of professional and program expectations. Not all applicants are guaranteed a Field Placement.

Find out more! OPTIONAL FIELD PLACEMENT

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

• Credit in English Language Arts 30-1 or minimum 65% in English Language Arts 30-2 or equivalent 
• Credit in a Grade 10 math (excluding Math 10-4 and Math 16 levels)

Or

Successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test that consists of five tests with a minimum score in the following sections:

• Interpreting Literature and Art: 520 minimum standard score
• Writing Skills: 520 minimum standard score
• Math Test: 450 minimum score

Or

• Satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admissions Test

English Language Proficiency Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, please review English language proficiency requirements.