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Veterinary Assistant

Transform your love of animals into a rewarding career by completing the Veterinary Assistant certification program at Harford Community College.

Learn the skills needed to work side-by-side with veterinarians and vet technicians. Veterinary assistants provide support in delivering a range of services, such as diagnosis, nutrition, emergency care, surgery, and more. You'll receive high-quality, hands-on training to prepare you to work in clinics, animal shelters, or laboratories, making a difference in the lives of animals and their owners.

Harford's program is one of only 27 nationwide to receive approval through the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.

Program Overview

CREDENTIAL EARNED
Certified Veterinary Assistant

NO. OF COURSES
5, plus a 100-hour externship

CONTACT INFORMATION
Monique Brunson
443.412.2338
mbrunson@harford.edu

ACCREDITATION
Approved by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)

REQUIREMENTS
Must be at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED

Must pass Reading (NGR) and Math (NGA) Assessments (available free of charge through the Test Center)

Prerequisite Animal First Aid and CPR

Prerequisite Massage Therapy for Animals

Courses

  • Introduction to Veterinary Assisting
  • Anatomy, Physiology, Disease, and Nutrition
  • Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques
  • Surgery and Emergency Care
  • Large and Exotic Animals

Students must also complete a 100-hour externship at a veterinary clinic.

What can I do when I complete this program?

Upon completion of this program, students are prepared to sit for the national certification exam administered by NAVTA. After passing the exam, certified veterinary assistants are prepared to enter the workforce.

Who teaches this program?

The Veterinary Assistant certification program is led and taught by Monique Brunson, an experienced industry professional.

Monique Brunson always wanted to work with animals. She attended Wilson College in Chambersburg, PA where she obtained her Bachelor of Science degree, majoring in Veterinary Terminology. Over the years, Monique has worked as a registered veterinary technician in multiple veterinary specialties. More recently, she has discovered her passion for teaching, leading her to join Harford Community College in 2019 as the Program Specialist for Animal Sciences. Monique enjoys helping others realize their passion for a career she herself loves, and she enjoys pushing students to reach their full potential.