Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate at Bow Valley College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-09

Program overview

Program Overview

If you have a passion for animals and want to work in a veterinary setting, the Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate program is an excellent choice. This program is designed for individuals who enjoy spending their days with four-legged friends and aspire to be a vital part of a veterinary team. As a Veterinary Office Assistant, you will gain essential administrative skills and knowledge about common health issues in companion animals. The program covers various topics, including financial management, veterinary computer software, client care, and veterinary terminology, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

Program Structure

The Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate program is structured to be completed in two terms, which typically spans one year. Here are some key details about the program:

Program Length: 2 Terms
Credits: A standard course load consists of five courses per term.
Full-Time Status: Students can maintain full-time status by enrolling in at least three courses.
Learning Options: Courses are available both in-class and online, although not all courses may be offered online each semester.

Students are encouraged to consult with the Academic Advising Team for assistance with program planning and course selection.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on training in clinical assisting skills, including animal handling and surgical instrument preparation.
Exposure to real-world scenarios through practical experiences in a veterinary office setting.
Opportunities to learn about financial management and client care in a veterinary context.
Access to veterinary computer software training to enhance administrative skills.

Career Options

Graduates of the Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Veterinary Office Assistant: Support veterinarians and staff with administrative tasks and client interactions.
Animal Care Attendant: Provide care and support for animals in veterinary clinics or shelters.
Receptionist in Veterinary Clinics: Manage front desk operations, including scheduling appointments and handling client inquiries.
Veterinary Technician Assistant: Assist veterinary technicians in providing care and treatment to animals.
Client Care Coordinator: Facilitate communication between clients and veterinary staff, ensuring a positive experience.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Bow Valley College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-09

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Veterinary Office Assistant Certificate program, prospective students must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Credit in English Language Arts 30-1 or a minimum of 65% in English Language Arts 30-2 or an equivalent.
Credit in a Grade 10 math (excluding Math 10-4 and Math 16 levels).
Alternatively, successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test is acceptable, which consists of five tests with the following minimum scores:
- Language Arts: Reading and Writing: 520 minimum standard score
- Math Test: 450 minimum score
Satisfactory results on the Bow Valley College Admission and Placement Test.

For international students, it is essential to ensure that you meet the above requirements. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Additionally, please note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to secure your place in the program.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

Before you apply, make sure you meet the language proficiency requirements for your program.

Bow Valley College teaches courses in Canadian English. To be admitted, you must demonstrate English proficiency, usually through high school or college transcripts or an English language test, depending on your program.

English language test results are valid for two (2) years from the day of testing. Results that expire before the program start date cannot be accepted. Official results must be submitted.

The following English language tests are accepted:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
IELTS (International English Language Testing Service)
CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks)
Duolingo
PTE (Pearson Test of English)
CELBAN (Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses)
CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program)
OET (Occupational English Test)

For most programs, the following minimum scores are required:

BVC Academic English 1: Not accepted
BVC Academic English 2: Minimum grade of Grade B-
Canadian Language Benchmarks: 8 in each strand (listening, speaking, reading, writing)
Duolingo: 110
TOEFL: 83
IELTS Academic: 6.0 with minimum band score 6.0
Pearson Test of English (PTE) A: 59 - 64

Alternatively, you can meet the requirements by providing:

Transcript showing completion of an Alberta Education English Language Arts course that meets the program’s Academic Requirements.
Transcripts showing three years of full-time high school where English was the language of instruction.
Transcripts showing one year of full-time post-secondary education at an institution where English was the language of instruction.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview