Veterinary Assisting

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Veterinary Assistant, Animal Care Attendant, Shelter Assistant

CAREER PATHWAYS
Veterinary Technician (with additional education), Specialization in Animal Behavior or Grooming, Advancement to Veterinary Practice Management

INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS AND STATE CREDENTIALS
Career Program Certificate

PROGRAM LENGTH: 750 Hours

NEXT START DATES: October 1, 2026
(dates subject to change)
*Does not apply to Career Dual Enrollment

Program Overview
Program Structure and Courses

Program Overview

The Veterinary Assisting program gives you the skills to care for animals in veterinary clinics, shelters, and animal hospitals. You’ll learn animal handling, basic nursing procedures, laboratory testing, and client communication.

Hands-on training with live animals provides valuable real-world experience. This program is ideal for those passionate about animal care and seeking entry-level positions in the veterinary field.

Radial graphics showing 88% completion, 100% placement, n/a licensure

Program Structure and Courses

This program is a planned sequence of instruction consisting three postsecondary adult courses that comprise three occupational completion points. Planned and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAE) must be provided through one or more of the following: (1) directed laboratory experience, (2) student project, (3) placement for experience, or (4) cooperative education. This program is comprised of courses which have been assigned course numbers in the SCNS (Statewide Course Numbering System) in accordance with Section 1007.24 (1), F.S. Career and Technical credit shall be awarded to the student on a transcript in accordance with Section 1001.44 (3)(b), F.S.

The following table illustrates the postsecondary program structure:

Course #	OCP	Course Name	Hours
ATE0006	A	Veterinary Assistants & Laboratory Animal Caretakers 1	450
ATE0070	B	Veterinary Assistants & Laboratory Animal Caretakers 2	150
ATE0072	C	Veterinary Assistant	150

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In This Section

Veterinary Assisting

Program Overview

Program Structure and Courses

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