Online associate's degree programs in
veterinary assisting are relatively common. Bachelor's degree programs
may also be found online, but these are much rarer.
Associate's Degree in Veterinary Assisting Overview
Veterinary assisting programs may be somewhat difficult to find in online format, but
veterinary technology
programs are similar and also prepare students to assist veterinarians
in caring for animals. Veterinary technology programs are more intensive
in the sciences and prepare students to perform advanced clinical
duties in the veterinary office. Considering veterinary technology
programs will expand students' options when searching for online degree
programs. Students enrolled in these programs learn different aspects of
veterinary health care, including laboratory procedures, office
administration and clinical care. Veterinary assisting programs aim to
equip students with the skills needed to care for animals and
effectively communicate with their owners.
Associate's degree programs in veterinary assisting or technology
generally take between two and three years to complete. Veterinary
assisting programs may be offered completely online, while veterinary
technology programs typically require students to complete some portions
of the curriculum in-person. For example, students may be required to
gain clinical experience in a veterinary hospital.
List of Common Veterinary Assisting Courses
A program may require a student to take general education courses that may include English, English composition and
animal science.
Students may perform on-site practicums (if required) by working or
volunteering in a veterinary facility. Students may be required to
document experience by videotaping it or by sending in materials
produced.
Animal Anatomy Course
Students learn how to identify the anatomical regions and landmarks of domestic animals. Topographical terms are taught.
Animal Physiology Course
The physiology of domestic animals is covered, with emphasis placed
on different system types, such as ruminant, non-ruminant monogastric
and monogastric digestive systems. The way physiology affects certain
diseases is also covered.
Veterinary Medical Terminology Course
Students are introduced to the terminology used in the veterinary and
medical fields. The structure of such terms is discussed in order to
foster understanding of the terms.
Animal Nursing Course
Clinical care skills are taught, including administering medications,
processing radiographs and preparing surgical instruments. The course
covers laboratory and exam room procedures.
Veterinary Office Procedures Course
This course strengthens students' math skills and teaches how
mathematics is applied in managing a veterinary office. Veterinary
computer applications are also introduced.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov),
the demand for skilled veterinary technicians and assistants is
expected to grow much faster than average during the 2008-2018 decade.
The average salary for veterinary technicians in 2009 was $30,580, while
veterinary assistants earned an average of $23,400.
Bachelor's Degree in Veterinary Assisting Overview
Online bachelor's degree programs in veterinary assisting or
technology are much less common than online associate's degree programs.
Most must be completed in-person. However, students interested in
managing a veterinary care facility may be interested in completing a
veterinary technology management program online. This type of program
teaches students who are already veterinary technicians the skills they
need to become competent in business management. The curriculum includes
many business courses, but tailors them to be specific to the
veterinary field.
Since the program is designed for students who are already veterinary
technicians, completion of a 2-year veterinary technology program with a
GPA of at least 2.0 is a prerequisite for enrolling in the program.
Because a 2-year degree is usually required, this type of program often
takes only two years to complete. Students have the option of completing
a veterinary technology management program fully online.
List of Common Veterinary Assisting Courses
Students entering an online B.S. in Veterinary Technology Management
may be required to complete introductory courses in marketing,
advertising, accounting and economics. Programs may consist of
management, business and veterinary courses.
Business Law Course
An overview of the legal systems in the United States is presented.
Students explore the procedures of both state and federal courts. Legal
issues relating to business, such as the law of contracts, the law of
agency and certain sections of the Uniform Commercial Code, are
discussed.
Veterinary Facility Management Course
Students learn how to manage finances, the physical space of the
veterinary facility and business operations. Methods for choosing a
facility and coming up with annual plans are covered.
Advertising Course
Students learn how to apply advertising to the marketing of services.
The course covers ways to design effective advertising campaigns.
Veterinary Human Resources Course
This course teaches students how to manage human resources, including
hiring, training and evaluating employees. Students learn to write job
descriptions and manage employee schedules. Techniques for motivating,
disciplining and discharging employees are also discussed.
Veterinary Organization Course
Students learn how to manage equipment, inventory and medical
records. Computer systems are presented and students learn how they are
applied in veterinary practices.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to manage a
veterinary business. Animal resource managers can work in the
pharmaceutical industry or in research institutions, academic facilities
or private practices. According to
Payscale.com, veterinary practice managers earned a median salary of $41,608 in 2010. Office managers earned a median salary of $34,136.
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