Agricultural Sciences
Veterinary Medical Assistant Courses
Location
Vermilion
Credential
Certificate
Program Length
1 year
Required courses
CO 180 Veterinary Office Management - 3 credits |
This course introduces core communication skills that are essential to working in the veterinary field. Both verbal and written communication skills are addressed. Veterinary terminology is also covered and is reinforced in all other courses in the Veterinary Medical Assistant program. Pre/co-requisites: None |
CO 280 Business & Veterinary Communications II - 3 credits |
This course focuses on critical soft skills, such as ethics, managing difficult situations, client education and marketing techniques as well as practicum preparation and interview skills. A portion of the course is a continuation of the usage of veterinary programs. Prerequisites: all first semester VMA courses. Co-requisites: None. |
CU 195 Introduction to Veterinary Software - 3 credits |
This course reviews Microsoft Word, Microsoft Windows file management as well as use One Drive. The main focus of the course is on the use of the AVImark veterinary software program. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 121 Introduction to Radiography & Surgery - 3 credits |
Radiography and surgery are integral components in a veterinary practice. Learning to assist in obtaining diagnostic digital radiographs while focusing on safety is a key skill veterinary medical assistant students must have. Students will also learn the proper techniques to prepare the equipment, space, patient and associated personnel for common surgical procedures. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 127 VMA Clinics Practice I - 3 credits |
This lecture/lab course covers breeds, colors, normal behaviour patterns and restraint techniques of small animals, pocket pets, and exotics. Students learn how to maintain a wide variety of medical records in a veterinary setting and perform kennel care duties on cats and dogs. All of the skills learned in the lecture are practiced throughout the labs. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 129 Applied Nutrition - 3 credits |
Students learn the principles and practices of nutrition as they apply to both companion animals and domestic livestock species. Each nutrient class is studied in relation to its function, deficiency, and requirement in the body. Nutrient requirements for maintenance, growth, and production are emphasized. Pre/corequisites: none. |
VE 131 Anatomy and Laboratory Safety - 3 credits |
Students are introduced to common clinical laboratory techniques, including the correct method of collection and the handling of specimens. An introduction to skeletal anatomy and physiology of the digestive, circulatory, respiratory, renal, and reproductive systems is covered. Laboratory safety and biosecurity protocols are practiced throughout this course. Students will participate in caring for the college owned horses a well as performing clinic duty. Pre/co-requisites: none |
VE 138 Animal Diseases & Treatments - 3 credits |
This course provides a working knowledge of the common diseases in dogs, cats, cattle, sheep, and horses for the Veterinary Medical Assistant student. The emphasis is on how disease is transmitted, clinical signs seen, disease prevention and vaccination protocols. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 139 Veterinary Nursing Care - 3 credits |
This lab/lecture course instructs students in the basic understanding of pharmaceutical drugs, their purpose, route of administration and regulations surrounding their sale. A wide variety of nursing care techniques for large and small animals, neonates, and geriatrics are discussed. Emergency situations and the essentials within a crash cart are covered. The roles of the veterinary team in wildlife management are introduced. Large animal hands-on experience is obtained as students do various shifts on the college farm units. Prerequisites: All VMA first semester courses. Co-requisites: none. |
VE 160 Animal Production & Genetics - 3 credits |
This course provides an overview of the livestock industry in Canada which primarily consists of horse, dairy, beef, and sheep with a quick introduction to swine and poultry industries. We will investigate the various production systems, biosecurity principles, animal behaviour and handling, animal welfare, and recent updates within the industries. Pre/co-requisites: None |
VE 177 VMA Practicum - 3 credits |
Students are placed in approved veterinary clinics or alternatives (such as a humane society) for a four week period at the end of the formal instruction at Lakeland College. During the practicum, students gain experience with exposure to the workings within the veterinary profession and have the opportunity to become part of the working team. This experience enhances their skills and helps prepare them for the work force. Pre/co-requisites: None |