For animal lovers who want to break into the field of veterinary medicine, Windward now offers the Certificate of Achievement in Veterinary Assisting.
Earning this certificate will benefit anyone who is interested in working with animals, either in the setting of a veterinarian’s office, animal shelter or research laboratory.
This is the first veterinary assisting program to be offered in Hawaii. Until now, veterinary practices have to train most of their assistants from the ground up. Certificate holders can earn a starting salary of $10 an hour and up to $15 an hour once they obtain more on-the-job experience.
The certificate will provide a standardized training program for vet assistants, allowing local veterinarians to concentrate on providing excellent patient care. Certificate holders will be able to effectively perform many vital functions in the veterinary clinic including:
- Effectively communicate with clients and veterinarians
- Generate invoices and enter appointments
- Perform routine physical exams and record patient histories
- Collect samples and perform clinical laboratory procedures (e.g., blood chemistries, urinalysis, hematology and blood-gas analysis)
- Maintain and trouble-shoot clinical lab equipment
- Assist with dental cleanings and surgical prep
The certificate consists of 12 classes (29-30 credits) designed to be completed in two semesters. For resident students, tuition will run approximately $2,200. Textbooks for core classes (ANSC classes, BUSN and Math 101) will run about $300. Students will also have to purchase some lab supplies through the Windward CC Bookstore.
The good news is that many of the classes can also be counted towards an A.A. degree, so students can work towards the certificate and an associate’s degree simultaneously.
Students who are interested in the Certificate of Achievement in Veterinary Assisting should contact Ross Langston at langston@hawaii.edu or 236-9119, or the Office of University Partners at 235-7324 for more information.
Register Now for Courses in the Fall
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Windward CC student Jessica Mattingly prepares “Caesar” for his veterinary check-up.
Windward CC students Jessica Mattingly and Rachele Wolfe administer a vaccination to “Titus”, an English terrier.
Jessica Mattingly working in the veterinary lab. |
