Thinking about becoming a vet assistant? It’s a great way to work with animals and help keep them healthy.
You’ll get to do all sorts of tasks in a vet clinic or animal hospital.
Getting certified can boost your chances of landing a good job in this field. There are several top-notch online programs that can help you get the skills and knowledge you need.
These courses let you study at your own pace and fit learning into your busy life.
1) Purdue University’s Veterinary Technology Program
Hey there! Looking to become a vet tech? Purdue University has got you covered with their awesome Veterinary Technology Distance Learning program.
This program is perfect if you’re ready to commit to learning all about being a vet tech.
It’s a part-time gig, so you can still keep your day job while you study.
You’ll dive into 27 different courses and get hands-on experience with 18 clinical mentorships.
It’s like a buffet of veterinary knowledge!
Just keep in mind that this isn’t a full-time program, so you’ll need to be patient as you work through it.
Also, heads up that financial aid might be limited, so plan your budget accordingly.
Purdue also offers live info sessions via Zoom where you can ask all your burning questions.
It’s a great way to see if this program is the right fit for you.
2) Penn Foster Veterinary Assistant Program
Want to work with animals but not sure where to start? The Penn Foster Veterinary Assistant Program might be just what you’re looking for.
This online course lets you learn at your own pace, perfect for busy schedules.
The program covers all the basics you need to know.
You’ll learn about animal care, lab procedures, and how to help during exams and treatments.
It’s designed to get you ready for entry-level jobs in vet clinics or animal hospitals.
One cool thing about Penn Foster is that it’s approved by NAVTA (National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America).
That’s a big deal in the vet world.
It means your training meets industry standards.
The curriculum includes 10 courses and an externship.
You’ll tackle topics like animal anatomy, medical terminology, and office procedures.
The externship gives you hands-on experience, which is super valuable when job hunting.
Best of all, you can finish in as little as 12 months if you’re in a hurry.
Or take your time – the average completion is about 16 months.
Either way, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career helping animals in no time.
3) Texas A&M Veterinary Assistant Certificate
Want to become a certified veterinary assistant? Texas A&M has you covered with their Veterinary Science Certificate Program.
It’s open to anyone 12 and up, so you can start your animal care journey early.
You’ll learn all about animal health, diseases, and basic vet procedures.
The program is flexible, letting you work at your own pace.
Perfect if you’ve got a busy schedule or other commitments.
To get certified, you’ll need to complete 225 clinical hours and 200 classroom hours.
Don’t worry, you can do this through self-study or even as part of a homeschool program.
Once you’re ready, you can take the Veterinary Assistant Certificate Examination.
Pass this test, and you’ll earn the title of Veterinary Assistant.
The best part? This program can be a stepping stone to bigger things.
If you’re thinking about becoming a vet tech or even a full-fledged veterinarian, this certificate is a great place to start.
4) Animal Behavior College Veterinary Assistant Program
Want to become a vet assistant without quitting your day job? The Animal Behavior College Veterinary Assistant Program might be perfect for you.
This online course fits easily into any schedule.
The program is divided into 11 stages.
You’ll learn about office etiquette, hospital procedures, and more.
Plus, you’ll get to watch 47 educational videos to help you understand the material better.
One of the best parts? The hands-on externship at the end of the program.
You’ll get real-world experience working with animals in a veterinary setting.
Worried about cost? ABC’s tuition is more affordable than many other vet assistant schools.
Depending on your payment plan, you’ll pay between $2,285 and $3,040.
This covers all the materials you’ll need for both the home study portion and the hands-on training.
After finishing the program, you’ll be ready to make your dream of helping animals come true.
You’ll have the skills to work in various veterinary settings and make a real difference in animals’ lives.
Understanding Veterinary Assistant Certifications
Getting certified as a vet assistant can boost your career and skills.
It shows employers you’re serious about the job and have solid training.
Why Certification Matters
Certification proves you know your stuff.
It tells vets and clinics that you’ve got the right skills to help care for animals.
Many places prefer or require certified assistants.
Getting certified can lead to better pay and more job options.
You’ll learn the latest best practices in animal care.
This keeps you up-to-date in a field that’s always changing.
Certification also builds your confidence.
You’ll know you can handle different situations in a vet clinic.
It’s a great way to show you’re committed to your career and to helping animals.
Different Types Of Certifications
The main certification for vet assistants is the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) from NAVTA.
To get it, you need to finish an approved program and pass an exam.
Some schools offer their own certificates.
These can be good too, but make sure vets in your area recognize them. Penn Foster’s program is approved by NAVTA and prepares you for the AVA exam.
Online programs are popular.
They let you study at your own pace.
The University of Houston and University of Tennessee offer online vet assistant courses.
These can be great if you’re working or have a busy schedule.
Choosing The Right Course
Picking the best veterinary assistant certification course takes some thought.
You’ll want to weigh a few key factors and decide between online and in-person options.
Factors To Consider
When looking at vet assistant programs, check if they’re approved by NAVTA.
This approval means the course meets high standards.
Think about the cost too.
Programs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Look at how long the course takes.
Some you can finish in a few months, while others may take a year or more.
Check what’s included – do you get hands-on practice? Will they help you find an externship?
Your schedule matters too.
If you work full-time, you might need a flexible online program.
But if you learn better in person, look for local options.
Online Vs. In-Person Learning
Online vet assistant courses give you lots of flexibility.
You can often study at your own pace and fit lessons around your schedule.
Many online programs offer virtual labs and videos to help you learn hands-on skills.
In-person courses let you practice on real animals and equipment.
You get instant feedback from teachers and can ask questions easily.
Some schools offer a mix of online and in-person learning.
Think about how you learn best.
If you’re self-motivated, online might work great.
If you need more structure, in-person could be better.
Both can lead to certification, so pick what fits your life and learning style best.
Career Impact Of Certification
Getting certified as a veterinary assistant can open up new doors in your career.
It can boost your job prospects and potentially lead to higher pay.
Let’s look at how certification might affect your career path.
Job Opportunities
Certification can make you stand out to employers.
Many vet clinics prefer to hire certified assistants.
With a NAVTA-approved certification, you’ll have an edge over non-certified applicants.
You might find work in:
- Animal hospitals
- Private vet practices
- Zoos
- Research labs
Certified assistants often get picked for more interesting tasks.
You could help with surgeries or handle lab work.
Some clinics only let certified staff do certain jobs.
Potential Salary Increase
Certification can bump up your earning power.
While exact figures vary, certified vet assistants often make more than those without credentials.
The median salary for vet assistants was $34,740 in 2022.
But with certification, you might earn above this amount.
Some perks of being certified:
- Higher starting pay
- Faster raises
- Better benefits
Your salary can grow as you gain experience.
Some certified assistants move up to supervisor roles, earning even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vet assistant programs come with lots of questions.
Let’s tackle some common ones about getting certified, earning potential, and top online options.
What are some accredited online veterinary assistant programs?
You’ve got great choices for online vet assistant programs. Purdue University’s Veterinary Technology Program offers solid training.
The Penn Foster Veterinary Assistant Program is another top pick.
Don’t forget about Texas A&M’s Veterinary Assistant Certificate and Animal Behavior College’s Veterinary Assistant Program.
Can you become a certified veterinary assistant for free through online courses?
Free certification is tough to find.
Most quality programs have a cost.
But some clinics offer on-the-job training that can lead to certification.
What is AVA certification, and how does it relate to vet assistants?
AVA stands for Approved Veterinary Assistant.
It’s a credential offered by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
Getting AVA certified shows you’ve completed an approved training program.
How much can a top veterinary assistant expect to earn?
Your pay as a vet assistant can vary.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary was $34,740 in May 2022.
This is about $16.70 per hour.
What are the requirements to become a credentialed veterinary assistant?
To become a credentialed vet assistant, you typically need a high school diploma or GED.
Then, you need to complete an approved training program.
Some employers might ask for certification or on-the-job experience.
Is Penn Foster a reputable option for pursuing a vet assistant certification?
Yes, Penn Foster is a solid choice for vet assistant training.
They offer an online program that’s flexible and affordable.
Many students find it a good fit for their needs.