Veterinary Assistant Program
NAVTA-approved online veterinary assistant program with a hands-on clinic externship, leading to ABCVA certification in 6-12 months.
25350 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Suite 346, Valencia, CA 91355
Open enrollment year-round; students can enroll and begin studying at any time (self-paced online).
No experience required
Program Philosophy
Animal Behavior College created its Veterinary Assistant Program to make a career in animal healthcare accessible without a four-year degree. Combining flexible, self-paced online study with a hands-on externship in a real clinic, it grounds students in medical terminology, humane animal care, and clinical procedures so they become confident members of a veterinary team. As a National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America-approved program, it emphasizes high professional and ethical standards and is a strong first step toward vet tech or veterinary school pathways.
Started in 2007
Visit program website
Animal lovers wanting a fast, flexible entry into veterinary care
Self-paced online modules studied on the student's own schedule. After coursework, ABC arranges a local clinic externship (minimum 90 hours) working alongside a licensed veterinarian, scheduled with the host hospital.
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America-approved Animal Behavior College Veterinary Assistant certification, real clinic experience, Pet CPR/First Aid, career-ready skills
Cost & Outcomes
Tuition is $1,399, payable in full or over a monthly payment plan. Students pay out of pocket or through ABC’s financing, and eligible students can use WIOA funding, Veterans education grants, MyCAA, or Vocational Rehabilitation.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America-approved certification (a distinction held by only a select number of online programs)
Flexible, self-paced online coursework for working adults
Hands-on externship (min. 90 hours) alongside a licensed veterinarian at a local clinic
Includes Pet CPR & First Aid certification
Dedicated Program Manager support from enrollment to graduation
Pathway to further growth (vet tech, practice management, veterinary school)
Day in the Life
- Self-paced online reading, videos, assignments, and module exams
- Guidance from a dedicated Program Manager
- Hands-on clinic externship: restraint, exam-room prep, lab work, surgical assisting, nursing care
- Pet CPR & First Aid certification prior to externship
- Career-building coursework (resume, interview, job search)
Led by a Registered Veterinary Technician, with externship coordinators holding veterinary and bachelor's-level credentials; staff bring roughly 13–19 years of veterinary experience.
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
Highs & Lows
Staying on pace with the self-paced coursework while balancing work and family, and coping with the emotional and physical demands of a real clinic externship (including animal illness and euthanasia).
Getting real hands-on experience in a veterinary clinic, often leading directly to a job offer, plus flexible study and supportive Program Managers.
Employment Support
Career Building module: resume writing, interview prep, and job search
Hands-on clinic externship that builds professional relationships
Dedicated Program Manager support
Access to ABC's mentor/clinic network and the ABC job board
Alumni benefits
Hear From the Program
How It Works
Request program information or speak with an ABC Admissions Counselor (online form or 800-795-3294)
Submit an application for admission
Complete financial arrangements and choose a payment plan (financial aid application if applicable)
Verify a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent (or pass the Scholastic Level Exam) and complete the entrance exam if required
Sign the Enrollment Agreement and receive acceptance notification
Gain access to the online course materials and connect with your assigned Program Manager
Complete all online modules and pass Pet CPR & First Aid certification
Complete the ABC-arranged local externship/mentorship, then pass the final exam to earn your ABCVA (NAVTA-approved) certification
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.No. Most students begin with little or no professional experience; programs are designed for beginners.
Yes. The online coursework is self-paced so you can study around work, school, or family.
No. Externships are unpaid educational experiences that provide hands-on training before entering the workforce.
ABC is a California state-approved (BPPE) vocational school. It is not accredited by a USDE-recognized agency; the Veterinary Assistant Program is NAVTA-approved.
Programs prepare you for careers in the animal industry, though employment is not guaranteed.