The Veterinary Assistant Certification (VAC) Program at Coastal Medical Training Institute prepares students to begin a rewarding career working with animals in veterinary clinics, hospitals, shelters, and animal care facilities.
This 14-week online training program provides students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills required to assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians in daily clinical operations. Students learn essential topics including animal behavior, safe restraint, medical terminology, diagnostics, preventative care, laboratory procedures, surgery support, pharmacology, and infection control.
The program is designed to prepare graduates for the Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) certification exam through American Allied Health (AAH). Students will gain a strong understanding of veterinary clinical procedures and the role veterinary assistants play in patient care and clinic operations.
Throughout the course, students complete structured modules, quizzes, and assignments designed to reinforce real-world veterinary knowledge. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared to pursue entry-level employment in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, shelters, boarding facilities, and other animal care environments.
This program is ideal for individuals who are passionate about animal care and want to begin a career in veterinary medicine.
Veterinary Assistant Certification (VAC)
14-Week Career Training Program
If you love animals and want to work in veterinary medicine, becoming a Veterinary Assistant is one of the best ways to start your career.
The Veterinary Assistant Certification Program at Coastal Medical Training Institute (CMTI) is a comprehensive 14-week online training course designed to prepare students for real-world veterinary clinic environments and the Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) certification exam.
Veterinary assistants are essential members of the veterinary healthcare team. They help veterinarians and veterinary technicians provide medical care to animals while ensuring clinics run smoothly and safely.
This course gives students the knowledge and confidence to begin working in veterinary settings and supporting animal health.
What Veterinary Assistants Do
Veterinary assistants perform a wide range of duties that support animal care and veterinary clinic operations. Common responsibilities include:
• Safely handling and restraining animals
• Preparing exam rooms and assisting with procedures
• Monitoring patient health and vital signs
• Assisting with laboratory testing and diagnostics
• Supporting surgical procedures
• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment and facilities
• Administering medications under supervision
• Educating pet owners on preventative care
• Maintaining medical records and assisting with front desk operations
Veterinary assistants work closely with veterinarians and technicians to ensure animals receive the highest quality care.
What You Will Learn
During this 14-week program, students will learn the essential knowledge required for veterinary assisting, including:
• Veterinary staff roles and clinic operations
• Veterinary medical terminology and anatomy
• Safe animal restraint and behavior recognition
• Animal husbandry and infection control
• Preventative animal healthcare
• Nutrition and parasite prevention
• Veterinary diagnostics and laboratory skills
• Pharmacology and medication administration
• Surgical assisting and anesthesia basics
• Common animal diseases and treatments
• Care for large animals, birds, and exotic pets
The program is structured to prepare students for the American Allied Health (AAH) Certified Veterinary Assistant exam.
Course Format
The Veterinary Assistant Certification course is delivered through online learning modules that students can complete at their own pace.
Program features include:
• Structured weekly modules
• Interactive learning materials
• Knowledge checks and quizzes
• Instructor support
• Certification exam preparation
• Flexible online learning
Students can complete the program in approximately 14 weeks, depending on their study schedule.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program may pursue entry-level positions in animal care settings such as:
• Veterinary clinics
• Animal hospitals
• Emergency veterinary centers
• Animal shelters and rescue organizations
• Boarding and grooming facilities
• Pet care businesses
• Wildlife and animal rehabilitation centers
Veterinary assisting can also be a stepping stone toward becoming a Veterinary Technician or Veterinarian.
Certification Preparation
This program prepares students to sit for the Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) certification exam administered by American Allied Health (AAH).
Certification demonstrates to employers that graduates have the knowledge and training required to work effectively in veterinary environments.
Program Length
14 Weeks
Students complete online coursework covering veterinary fundamentals, clinical procedures, and animal care skills.