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Veterinary Office Assistant (Certificate)

Credential:
Durham College Certificate
Code:
VTOA

Durham College Certificate

Program Description

Veterinary office assistants are professionals who contribute to the effectiveness of a veterinary office environment in fundamental ways. This includes liaising with clients, overseeing efficient office communications, scheduling, equipment maintenance, and contributing to special projects. A foundational knowledge of veterinary terminology and procedures unique to this exciting industry will provide you with the knowledge and skills to be a valuable asset in a veterinary office.

Students who wish to specialize further may take the Veterinary Office Specialization Micro-Credential.

Certificate Requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) including Grade 12 English (C or U) and Grade 12 Math (C, M or U)
    OR
    Grade 12 equivalency certificate achieved through College academic upgrading
    OR
    Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older) with Grade 12 English (C or U) and Grade 12 Math (C, M or U)

  • You must maintain an overall average of 60% or a GPA of 2.0 in order to graduate
  • A minimum of 25% of courses must be completed through Durham College.

Program Of Study

Students are required to print or save a copy of the Program of Study when beginning the program. This document contains critical details about program progression and graduation requirements specific to the academic year in which your program was started.

Click to access the Program of Study for the current academic year. Note: Before beginning this credential, please be advised that one or more courses in this program are not MAC compatible.

Students who began this program prior to the current academic year may contact the Professional and Part-Time Learning office at ppl@durhamcollege.ca or 905-721-3052 to obtain your Program of Study and graduation requirements.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be equipped to:

  • Coordinate the collection, distribution, and response to communications in the veterinary office context to facilitate the effective flow of information.
  • Contribute to scheduling, coordination, and organization of administrative tasks within specific deadlines and according to set priorities.
  • Use effective interpersonal and client service skills to respond to the diverse needs of clients and office staff.
  • Produce accurate documents and reports using industry terminology and standards.

Career Options

Potential career and industry options may include:

A graduate in this program will be able to apply for receptionist and office assistant positions at:

  • veterinary clinics and hospitals
  • veterinary specialist and emergency centres
  • humane and rescue societies
  • pet insurance agencies.

Program Related Questions? Call 905.721.3052

If you are interested in applying for financial aid, please visit the Professional and Part-Time Learning OSAP Eligibility webpage.

Currently offered

Course Title Location/
Delivery Method
VETA 2281Animal Husbandry 1Online
VETA 3281Animal Husbandry 2Online
CCSC 1280Building and Maintaining Customer RelationshipsOnline
COMM 1884Communication FoundationsDistance Education
SPRD 2281Excel IntroductionMonthly Intake Online
SPRD 2281Excel IntroductionOnline
VETA 1280Veterinary Office Skills & ProceduresOnline
VETA 1281Veterinary TerminologyOnline
WIND 2285Word IntroductionOnline
WIND 2285Word IntroductionMonthly Intake Online