Start a Career in Animal Care

If you’ve dreamed of working with animals, the Veterinary Assistant program at Glen Oaks gives you the knowledge and confidence to begin that journey. This fully online course prepares you to support veterinarians in clinics, hospitals, shelters, and research settings—with optional hands-on externship experience.

Male and female veterinary assistants wearing scrubs, caring for Beagle

 

Why Choose This Program?

  • 100% online and self-paced for flexible learning
  • No prior animal care experience required
  • Includes an optional 100-hour externship in a veterinary clinic
  • Teaches both clinical and administrative skills
  • Aligned with the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA)
  • Ideal for animal lovers seeking a fast, affordable pathway into the veterinary field

What You’ll Learn

  • Animal anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology
  • How to handle and restrain cats, dogs, and other animals safely
  • Veterinary office procedures, billing, and client communication
  • Routine lab procedures and diagnostic tests
  • Common surgical assisting and post-operative care skills
  • Ethics and legal issues in veterinary practices

Courses You’ll Take

  • Introduction to Veterinary Terminology
  • Small Animal Nursing and Restraint
  • Office Administration and Client Education
  • Laboratory Procedures and Pharmacology
  • Career readiness and externship prep+

Learn more and view complete course information below

Veterinary Assistant Training Program

FAQs

Q: Is this program available fully online?
A: Yes. The Veterinary Assistant program is fully online and self-paced through Ed2Go.

Q: What kind of jobs can I get after graduation?
A: Graduates are prepared for roles as veterinary assistants in clinics, shelters, zoos, and animal hospitals.

Q: Can I take classes part-time?
A: Yes. The flexible online format is ideal for working adults or students balancing other commitments.

Q: How long does it take to complete the Veterinary Assistant program?
A: Most students complete the program in 6 to 12 months. You set your own pace, and you have up to 12 months to finish.

Q: Is the externship required?
A: No, but it’s strongly recommended. The optional 100-hour externship provides valuable hands-on experience in a real veterinary setting and can strengthen your resume.

Q: Can this help me become a licensed veterinary technician?
A: This program is not a vet tech degree, but it’s a great first step. Many students use it to gain experience before applying to a formal veterinary technician program.

Q: Can I enroll if I live outside of Michigan?
A: Yes. The program is open to students nationwide, but externship placements may depend on availability in your area.


Ready to Take the Next Step?

Visit the Veterinary Assistant program page to learn more.

Enroll Now


Still Have Questions?

For more information about this program or any of our online training programs please contact us.

Headshot of Eric Pschigoda
Eric Pschigoda Coordinator of Workforce Development & Community Education