About the Veterinary Assistant Course

This 100-hour Veterinary Assistant program introduces students to the exciting and growing field of veterinary medicine. Students will learn about the care of animals as well as how to recognize signs of illness and disease. This program also covers interpersonal communication, interaction with clients and their animals, as well as how to assist the veterinarian during examinations. Administrative duties, such as fee collection, banking, and accounts payable are also emphasized to provide the student with the skills necessary to maintain an efficient front office. Students will enjoy learning through classroom lectures as well as hands-on labs.

Note: this program does not include a national or state certification or a clinical rotation as part of its overall objectives. In addition to classroom lectures and labs, this program includes a clinical externship through a local provider.

Clinical Externship

Upon successful completion of this Veterinary Assistant program, you will be eligible to participate in a 40-hour clinical externship with a local provider. You may be asked to submit to a thorough background check, drug screening, and meet other requirements.

Course Options

Option #1 – Self-Directed Online Classes

Students may start the self-directed online class at any time and have full access to the website. E Textbooks are included in the fee. Students have up to 6 months to complete the program. No on-campus attendance is required for this program. Students are eligible to participate in the optional externship after successfully completing the program

Cost: $1,899 (includes e-textbooks)

There are no refunds offered for the self-directed, online program.

Option #2 – Instructor-led, on campus

The program will be held on campus with live instruction. Class size is limited to 20 participants.

Duration: 100 Hours
Dates: Spring 2027
Days: TBD
Times: 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. (M – W), 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (sat)
Location: Huntsville-Research Park Site
Cost: $1,899 (textbooks and externship included)

Course Funding Options

Paths for Success Scholarship

Students may qualify for and apply for the Paths for Success scholarship if they need financial assistance to cover costs like tuition, transportation, or childcare while pursuing a credential or certification that leads to employment.

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The ELM Foundation Scholarship

A student can apply for a workforce scholarship from the ELM Foundation in Huntsville, AL if they need financial support to pursue career training or certification programs that lead to sustainable employment and long-term self-sufficiency.

Note: The ELM Foundation accepts grant applications for in-person or hybrid Healthcare Programs. Online programs are not considered for funding at this time.

Inquiry Form

Interested in a personal student loan from Sallie Mae®? Students must be certified/authorized for Sallie Mae® loans at least 30 days prior to the class start date.

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Refund Policy (Instructor-Led Courses Only)

All refund requests must be received in writing by February 9, 2026. Email diane.peck@calhoun.edu with your request and then call 256-306-2515 to confirm receipt of the request.  Calhoun Community College is not responsible for emails that are not delivered/received.