Veterinary Assistant Program (Online)

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Now Online! Due to COVID-19, our cohorts will be held via virtual classroom experience until further notice.

veterinary assistant

Program Highlights
  • On-demand start / start anytime / self-paced to fit your schedule
  • Receive personal, ongoing support all the way through the training program

Have you always wanted to work with animals? This online program might be just what you are seeking! It helps students develop the knowledge and skills needed to successfully manage the administration of a veterinary office of clinic and assist other veterinary staff with basic animal care. This career can also be an excellent stepping stone for further veterinary education.

Your specific responsibilities would vary from location to location, but may include:

  • Feeding, bathing, and exercising animals
  • Cleaning and disinfecting cages, kennels, and examination and operation rooms
  • Restraining animals during examination and laboratory procedures
  • Maintaining and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment
  • Monitoring and caring for animals after surgery
  • Helping to provide emergency first aid to sick and injured animals

Those who complete this program will receive a University of Utah Veterinary Assistant Program completion award.

This program is offered in partnership with Career Step.

Learn More at our Partner Site

Schedule

The Veterinary Assistant training program includes 150 completion hours. Since the program is completely self-paced, the online training format allows you the flexibility to study as much or as little as your schedule allows. Completion time varies based on time commitment to the course. Many students are able to complete their training program in as little as 1 or 2 months. Students who devote approximately 10 hours per week may finish in about 4 months. You'll have a full 6 months to complete your training.

Tuition

$2,699.00

  • MyCAA approved
  • Not eligible for the University of Utah tuition reduction benefit
Location

Online

Requirements

  • In order to be admitted, you must be at least 18 years of age and either a) have a high school diploma or a General Education Development Certificate (GED), or b) pass the Career Step Pre-Training Assessment Test. There are no specific skills or experience that are considered prerequisites for entry into the Career Step training program.
  • Every student who enrolls in the Veterinary Assistant training program receives an initial 6-month period of enrollment. If you need extra time to complete the course after your initial 6-month enrollment, we have 3-month extensions available for purchase.

Disclaimer: If you have ever been a University of Utah student, please verify that you have no holds on your account before enrolling. To view holds, visit the Registration Holds page. If you have a hold, it will delay your enrollment.

Benefits

Pave the way to a meaningful career
A career as a veterinary assistant is perfect for animal lovers. As a vet assistant, you will constantly make a difference in the lives of animals by ensuring they are comfortable and have a stress-free stay in the clinic.

Flexible program fits your schedule
You can start the program any time, and it’s self-paced to fit your schedule. You can complete it in as little as 2 months or can take the full 6 months to complete the program.

Receive individualized support
Though you’ll be working at your own pace, you won’t be alone! You’ll receive personal, ongoing support all the way through the training program.

Gain skills in a quickly growing field

  • Veterinary assistants are part of the $60 billion a year U.S. pet industry, which is increasing the demand for these professionals.
  • There are opportunities nationwide, and the U.S. Department of Labor estimates that the demand for veterinary assistants will grow by 19%, or over 16,000 new jobs, before 2026.

Who Should Attend

This program is designed for individuals seeking to prepare themselves for a career as a veterinary assistant, or as the groundwork for future veterinary education.

No experience in a veterinary office is required.

Professional Education
Phone: 801-585-1780
E-mail: proed@continue.utah.edu
Online contact form

Career Step (Educational Partner)
Phone: 877-225-7151
https://partner.careerstep.com/uofu