In partnership with Olds College, the Veterinary Technical Assistant Certificate (VTA) is a certificated, entry-level program that introduces students to the veterinary industry and animal care. The VTA is a valued member of the veterinary practice and works alongside veterinary professionals, animal health technicians and shelter staff in both large and small animal facilities. Students who complete this program are certificated and fully employable as a Veterinary Technical Assistant.
The VTA Certificate program includes 5 courses (below), for which students must maintain a minimum GPA average of 2.00 (approximately 62%). Two courses will be taken one semester, and three courses the other semester. Courses include:
- ANH1050 - Introduction to the Veterinary Profession
- ANH1010 – Small Animal Behaviour and Handling
- ANH1020 – Small Animal Clinical Foundations
- ANH1030 – Veterinary Instruments and Equipment
- ANH1040 – Essential Client Communication and Animal Care
See the program outline and the Olds College Dual Credit Student Tip Sheet for information about being an Olds College student.
Which VTA Program is Best for me?
In-Person
- Do you learn best in-person, surrounded by your peers?
- Do you prefer to communicate face-to-face?
- Are you able to make the timetable adjustments required at your home high school?
In-person learning is likely the best fit!
OR
Online/Blended Learning
- Do you prefer to learn independently in the evening or on weekends?
- Were you successful in online learning during COVID?
- Do you have a busy school day and can not accommodate the required timetable adjustment?
- Are you excellent at time management and digital communication?
Online/blended learning may be the best fit!
Program Details
Eligibility
Open to CBE high school students who:
- Are entering grade 11 or 12 at the start of the program year
- Have a strong interest in exploring a pathway in animal health and well-being
- Are excited about taking a post-secondary course
- Students must be on track to complete the following courses by the end of Grade 12 to attain their Olds College certificate:
- Biology 20, Chemistry 20 or Science 20 and
- English 30 - 1 or 30 – 2 and
- Math 20 - 1 or Math 20- 2 and
- Students are strongly encouraged to complete the following workplace safety course, as they will be working in an industry setting:
- HCS3000 Workplace Safety Systems - This course is available through the home high school Off-Campus Coordinator or Guidance Counsellor.
Location & Delivery
In-person learning at CARE Calgary Animal Referral and Emergency (CARE) Centre - 7140 - 12 St SE, Calgary AB
Duration & Time
Full-year Program | September - June
Program Times | Monday - Thursday from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Workload
Students can expect a total of 12 synchronous hours per week (in person) and approximately 3-5 hours of additional independent work per week for a total of 15-18 hours per week.
Students will be assessed using quizzes, tests, hands-on labs, activities and exams. A detailed breakdown will be provided to students at the start of the program.
Timetable Requirements
Students must have no afternoon classes in their timetable at their home high school to accommodate this program. A lighter course load is recommended in the mornings as well.
Program Benefits
- Students who complete the VTA Certificate and wish to continue to the Veterinary Medical Receptionist (VMR) Certificate can apply to Olds as an adult and complete just one additional term to earn a second certificate!
- Get a jump start on your post-secondary education while still in high school
- Build confidence through developing learning strategies and skills that support your learning transitions
- Learn about ongoing opportunities and experience post-secondary learning
- Taught by experienced instructors who are connected to industry and support students in making meaningful connections to career pathways
- Earn high school credits and post-secondary credits
Credits
Credits - 25, 30-Level CTS and an
Olds College Post-Secondary Certificate
(15 Olds Credits)
Career Map
Considerations
- Students must have space in their full-year timetable to accommodate the program delivery, location, and dates.
- Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program location. Support may be available – reach out to your Off-Campus Coordinator or guidance counsellor, or email uniquepathways@cbe.ab.ca if you require support.
- Students are expected to attend every day and meet all safety and behavioural expectations of the program partner site. Failure to do so may result in removal from the program.
- Students must meet all course assignment, quiz and test deadlines.
- Students must submit a personal learning schedule with their application, which outlines when they will work on their Dual Credit coursework outside of class time.
- Students must be registered as a full-time student, taking at least one course at their home high school during the program (work experience excluded).
- Students will be expected to communicate with both their CBE supervising teacher and course instructor regularly.
How to Apply
- Read through the course(s) and/or program(s) of interest.
- Review program choice with your school Off-Campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counsellor for program readiness and timetabling concerns.
- You are highly encouraged to attend the Unique Pathways Information Night to ask questions of our program partners and determine if the program is a good fit for you. Connect with your Off-Campus Coordinator or Guidance counsellor if you are unable to attend.
- Download and fill in the Dual Credit Application Form Package when available.
- Refer to the application checklist and ensure all items are complete.
- Book an appointment with your Off-Campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counsellor before the deadline to complete your application, including signatures from all parties.
- The school will submit the application to Unique Pathways on your behalf.
Contact
Unique Pathways Team
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Last modified: 2026-06-30 17:00:13.75591 +0000 UTC