Veterinary Assisting

Ft. Pierce Westwood's veterinary lab is a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital where students learn through hands-on experiences in veterinary medicine.
After graduating, students can work immediately as Veterinary Assistants or continue further education at the college level.

Campus Locations
Potential Industry Certifications / Credentials

  • Certified Veterinary Assistant
  • Fundamentals of Animal Science

Areas of Study

  • Classroom studies include Animal Nutrition and Behavior, Anatomy and Physiology and Disease Processes, Medical Terminology, Parasitology and Immunology, and Surgical Nursing.
  • A wide variety of skills are emphasized with classroom and lab lessons including science, math, communications, leadership, management, and technology.
  • Students can receive on-the-job training in our kennel and clinical facilities. Student responsibilities include care of dogs and cats, restraint of dogs and cats, vaccinating animals, medicating animals, and observing/assisting in surgery.
  • Students work on a daily basis in a state-of-the-art veterinary facility that includes classroom space, wet labs, dissection room, small animal housing, and kennels.
  • Careers in Veterinary Science include: veterinarian, veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, veterinary specialty surgeon, veterinary pharmaceutical and diagnostic equipment sales, grooming / obedience training, pet store advisory and food sales, USDA personnel, research, CDC scientist, horse trainer, wildlife rehabilitator, marine mammal specialist, and much more!

HONORS Credit for CTE Level 3 Courses
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Level III (3) courses are designed for students who have demonstrated an advanced level of interest and achievement in their CTE subject area. CTE Level 3 courses are more demanding and have requirements beyond those of standard CTE courses.
The aims of CTE level III courses are to promote:
  • Opportunities for advanced work.
  • Rigorous study of CTE content areas.
  • Practical application of knowledge and skills.
  • Transfer of knowledge and skills to work-based situations.
  • College and Career credit and readiness.
Earn College Credit
Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO)
Labor Market Information

This program supports students' college and career readiness. Students are college and career ready when they have the knowledge, skills, and academic preparation needed to enroll and succeed in college credit-bearing courses within an associate or bachelor degree program without the need for remediation. Students need these same attributes and levels of achievement to enter and succeed in post-secondary workforce education or to enter a career path offering a living wage and future advancement.

Programs