Veterinary Office Assistant

What to expect from the program

In this program, you will develop your administrative skills with an emphasis on the veterinary and animal sciences discipline, including the ability to:

• Manage and organize client and pet health information while providing excellent customer service 
• Communicate effectively and professionally with pets, clients, teams, co-workers, and the community 
• Perform standard office administrative duties 
• Demonstrate safety in the workplace 
• Use current tools and technology, including veterinary specific software 
• Apply and demonstrate basic knowledge of veterinary practice 

Graduate with experience

NorQuest College believes in the importance of on-the-job experience that provides an enriched learning opportunity. 

You’ll graduate from this program with 150 hours of work experience from a practicum. 

Your practicum may be in your community or close by. Your schedule may include day, evening, or night shifts any day of the week, including weekends and holidays. You will take part in a full-time practicum and must arrange your own transportation to and from the facility.

Flexible learning

This program is designed to be accessible and meet students where they are at in their lives, regardless of background. It offers:

• Flexible delivery options, including blended or online anytime, full time or part time
• Frequent start dates
• Compressed learning to an in-demand credential in 12 weeks
• Multiple admission pathways, even for those without traditional academic qualifications

Recommended qualifications

Students are more likely to be successful in this program if they: 

• Have access to a PC computer with a stable Internet connection 
• Have keyboarding and basic computer skills 
• Can type 40 words per minute before the program starts 
• Are able to dedicate 40-50 hours per week for full-time studies 

This program is not suitable for international students as the work permit needed for the practicum may not arrive in time.

Career opportunities

Graduates have opportunities to work in veterinary practices and clinics, animal hospitals, related not-for-profit organizations, and veterinary supply companies.

What to expect as a veterinary office assistant

You are more likely to be successful in this career if you: 

• Have a genuine love for a variety of animals 
• Are physically and emotionally able to manage workplace demands (e.g., lift up to 16 kg/35 lbs and push or pull 45 kg/100 lbs) 
• Are able to work shift work, including evenings and weekends 
• Work well in a team environment 
• Enjoy administrative tasks and are committed to customer service