Veterinary Assisting

For HCI College’s Veterinary Assisting Program, students can enroll up until the Monday before classes start.
 

HCI College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). HCI College is also licensed by the Florida Department of Education’s Commission for Independent Education (CIE).

The Veterinary Assisting Diploma Program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment as an assistant to a veterinarian or veterinary technician. Students develop foundational knowledge in ethics and law, animal anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, animal care, client education, surgical preparation, nursing assistance, and veterinary office procedures.

Yes. The Veterinary Assisting Program includes a clinical externship that allows students to gain practical experience in a veterinary setting before graduation.

The Veterinary Assisting Program consists of 35 semester credits and 720 clock hours and can be completed in approximately 10 months. The program includes classroom instruction, online learning, laboratory experiences, and an externship.

Complete the General Enrollment Requirements and Pass the Student Assessment for Distance Education.

Students must earn a grade of “C” or higher, which is a minimum score of 70% in each didactic course to progress through the program.

Yes. Students may attempt a course a maximum of two times. If a student fails the same course a second time, the student will be dismissed from the Veterinary Assisting Program.

Tutoring services are available to promote student academic success. There are faculty tutors to assist students with specific course content. Individual assistance may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis with instructors. All other tutoring is by appointment coordinated through the Program Director/Dean of Academic Affairs. HCI College also provides online tutoring services and general education courses twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week through Tutor.com.

Students are expected to maintain professional attendance and conduct throughout their externship. They must attend all scheduled hours, notify both the externship site and Program Director of any absences, and make up missed hours as required. Students are evaluated regularly by their site supervisor on their interactions with staff and clients, clinical and administrative skills, and ability to follow directions. The externship should be treated as an extended job interview, as many sites may consider hiring successful externs.

The Program Director works with affiliated externship sites to accommodate all students and their externship needs. Student requests may be considered when appropriate; however, there are no guarantees regarding specialty, location, or hours. The Program Director will strive to match students with an appropriate externship environment while prioritizing the best interests of all students.

Yes. Financial aid is available for students who qualify (see the Program Highlights Section of the Veterinary Assisting Program page for more information).