Veterinary Assistant
Work in a field that is growing by almost 40% over the next few years.
If you love working with animals, a veterinary assistant job might be perfect for you. Over the course of 12 weeks you will gain the knowledge and confidence to help you get a job as a vet assistant. Through classroom and hands-on labs you will learn about animal anatomy and behavior, veterinary ethics, medical and dental procedures, front office procedures and much more. In addition to classroom and hands-on labs you will complete six hours of job shadowing at a local veterinary clinic.
Completion of this course includes a recognition of career preparation from Heartland. There is no national certification test for veterinary assistant.
Current median wage - $12.14/hour.*
Projected Regional Jobs by 2024 - 1,310
*Hourly incomes are the median wages reported in 2016 to the Bureau of Labor Statistics for the respective job titles. Projected jobs are for regions roughly equating to HCC district 540.
Students entering the Veterinary Assistant program should have their high school diploma or GED. They should also be within 6 months of turning 18 years old or older.
Students for Whom English is Not a First Language
Basic English language literacy and communication skills are vital to the success of the student. Please contact HCC Adult Education with any concerns related to this requirement as they can assess your skillsets and may enroll you in Heartland’s free ESL class as a first step.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Apply best practices in the performance of laboratory procedures.
- Apply best practices in the performance of examination procedures.
- Use biological data to identify appropriate next action during veterinary surgery.
- Communicate effectively with veterinarians and other veterinary staff.
- Effectively communicate technical information to veterinary clients using plain language.
- Create and use an effective job search strategy.
Register for Veterinary Assistant
The Fall 2019 class is in progress. The next available class will be posted here when scheduled.
Payment Options
We offer an installment payment plan and student loans are available through SallieMae.
Call us at 309-268-8033 for more information.
Health Care Career Training Refund Policy
Employment Statement for Job Training Programs
Heartland Community College does not guarantee employment upon completion of instructional programs. Students are responsible for researching relevant employment opportunities prior to registration. No refunds will be provided if a student fails to complete a course, does not pass a certification exam, or is unsuccessful at obtaining employment.
