Veterinary Assistant, Career Studies Certificate is a Career Studies Certificate program offered by Tidewater Community College in Virginia Beach, VA. Tuition is $3,009 total.
Program Overview
The Career Studies Certificate program in Veterinary Assistant prepares students to assist and support licensed veterinary technicians and veterinarians in the health and handling of a variety of small domestic animals and exotic species. Veterinary Assistants perform receptionist functions, assist in filling prescriptions, keep exam rooms and kennels cleaned and prepped, set up lab work, assist with inventory, update medical records, assist with nursing care, assist with surgical preparation and procedure, assist with radiography, interact with clients, etc. The college has achieved approval of its program by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). Upon graduation from a NAVTA approved Veterinary Assistant Program, a participant is eligible to sit for the national examination and upon successful completion will be designated an Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA).
Admission to the college does not guarantee admission to the Veterinary Assistant Program, with 15-18 students admitted to the program each spring semester. Selection is highly competitive with entrance requirements for this program to include: high school graduation or a GED, college admission, VPT placement into ENG 111 , VPT placement into MTH 111 or successful completion of an equivalent or higher level college math class, letter of recommendation, and personal interview with the Program Director. For additional information regarding admission, continuance, and graduation requirements, go to tcc.edu (search keywords “veterinary assistant”).
Application Process
- 1Submit ApplicationComplete the online application form with your personal information and educational background.
- 2Submit TranscriptsProvide official high school transcripts or GED certificate. Some programs may require additional documentation.
- 3Financial AidComplete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Meet with a financial aid advisor to review your options.Complete FAFSA Application
- 4EnrollmentOnce accepted, complete enrollment paperwork, register for classes, and attend orientation.
Curriculum
Tidewater Community College's 2026-2027 catalog lists 7 courses for this award, totalling 17 credits. The full list, with the college's own course codes, appears below.
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide
Accreditations
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
School Information
Campus Location
Why Accreditation Is Important
When you attend an accredited institution, you are attending a school that has undergone a rigorous process that evaluates educational quality. It's not easy to become or remain an accredited institution. The rules and regulations are strict, precise and designed to protect students. Here are some of the benefits:
- A reliable indicator of quality
- Approved program of study
- Qualified instructors
- Recognition by employers nationwide