Veterinary Assistant

Course Descriptions

Introduction to Agricultural Science

9th – 10th Grade  /  1 Period  /  Prerequisites: None

What to Expect

• Animal science — Care, behavior, and industry basics.

• Plant & soil science — Growth, nutrients, and sustainability.

• Horticulture — Greenhouse work and plant management.

• Agribusiness — Marketing, economics, and career pathways.

• Mechanics — Tools, equipment, and shop safety.

Alternative energy — Renewable systems in agriculture.

Certifications/Skills (9th–10th Grade)

• FFA membership — Required program component; leadership and career development.

• Ag science project — Hands-on project as part of the three-part program.

Veterinary Assistant 1

11th Grade /  2 Periods  /  Prerequisites: Intro to Agricultural Science with a C or better in both semesters

What to Expect

• Small‑animal care — Handling, restraint, and wellness basics.

• Large‑animal industry — Roles, careers, and care practices.

• Veterinary office skills — Scheduling, records, client communication.

• Anatomy & physiology — Body systems, structure, and function.

• Health & disease — Identifying symptoms and common conditions.

• Clinical skills — Safe handling, sanitation, and basic procedures.

• Lab activities — Includes small‑mammal dissection (alternative available).

Externship — Students complete clinical hours at a local vet clinic.

Certifications/Skills (11th Grade)

• Animal restraint & handling — Vet clinic safety and handling basics.

• Externship hours — Clinical hours at an assigned local vet clinic.

Veterinary Assistant 2

12th Grade /  2 Periods  /  Prerequisites: Veterinary Assistant 1 with a C or better in both semesters

What to Expect in an Advanced Veterinary Assistant

• Veterinary medicine — Diagnostics, treatment basics, and clinical workflow.

• Ethics & welfare — Responsible care, legal standards, and advocacy.

• Nutrition — Feeding plans, dietary needs, and health impacts.

• Anatomy & physiology — Advanced systems and functions.

• CPR & emergency care — Responding to urgent animal health situations.

• Lab procedures — Sample collection, testing, and equipment use.

• Office management — Inventory, scheduling, and clinic operations.

Externship — Continued clinical hours at assigned veterinary facilities.

Certifications/Skills (12th Grade)

• National Veterinary Assistant Exam — Eligible to sit for the exam upon program completion.

• Animal CPR — Emergency response training.

• Externship hours — Continued clinical hours at an assigned vet clinic.