VETERINARY OFFICE ASSISTANT CERTIFICATE – COMING IN 2010 - FAQs
What type of work can I do with a Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate?
The Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate is a focused program that will prepare graduates to provide effective office administration in animal-related environments such as veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, SPCA, veterinary supply companies or animal shelters. The curriculum in this 24 week program focuses on key office administration skill development including computer skills, office organization, and financial management. Additional learning specific to veterinary and animal environments will include terminology and functioning of a veterinary office. This program does not include medical training and does not prepare graduates to assist in a medical capacity in veterinary offices.
What are the job prospects for graduates of this program?
95% of Bow Valley College Administration Certificate graduates are employed in the field of their education. In 2007 there were 110,242 dogs and 107,514 cats in Calgary. This population is projected to grow as Calgary According to Alberta Occupational Profiles, the expected growth in this occupation is 1.5 to 2.5 % each year from 2006 to 2011. Recent research also predicts that 40-70 NEW positions will be created each year in addition to job openings created by employment turnover and retirements. grows (current population growth projections are 2.2% per year). These pets are served by 78 vet clinics and over 200 veterinary supply and animal health related organizations that could offer potential employment to graduates of the Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate program.
What qualities contribute to success as a Veterinary Office Assistant?
People entering this profession are expected to facilitate the smooth operation of the veterinary office including dealing with and addressing the concerns of the public. Veterinary Office Assistants need to be able to work effectively as part of a team and work well under pressure. They also need to have excellent communication, multi-tasking, time and task management skills. A genuine interest in animals and their wellbeing is also an asset.
Where can I expect to be placed for my practicum?
Students can expect to be placed with Calgary veterinary offices or related animal environments for their practicum.
