Curriculum & Courses

This technical certificate is a two semester program designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as animal handlers/ veterinary assistants or laboratory animal caregivers. Students completing this program may seek certification as an Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) through the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS). All courses successfully completed in this certificate program will apply toward the AAS Veterinary Technology Program.

A formal application is not required for admission to this program. Enrollment for all VET courses is managed by the Program Director. Interested students should schedule an advising appointment to plan a course of study.

Prior completion of all Learning Support Competencies is required for any university parallel course (non-asterisk).

Summary of Required Hours:

Summary of Required Hours

Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
AGRI 1020	Introduction to Animal Science²	3
AHC 115*	Medical Terminology¹	3
VET 101*	Intro to Veterinary Technology	3
VET 110*	Applied Veterinary Anatomy Physiology	4
VET 125*	Laboratory Aniaml Care	3

Electives

Course Number	Course Title	Credit Hours
ENGL 1010 SPCH 1010	English Composition¹ OR Fundamentals of Speech Communications¹	3
BUS 110* INFS 1010	Introduction to Business OR Computer Applications	3
Total Credit Hours		22

VET Course Descriptions

VET 101 — Introduction to Veterinary Technology (3)

This course begins building the skill sets required to succeed in the care and handling of animals. Areas of emphasis will include: restraint techniques, care and feeding, basic nursing care, venipuncture, client relations, microscope care and usage and other basic skills utilized by animal caregivers, animal lab researchers and/or practicing veterinary technicians. Two lecture, two lab hours per week.

Prerequisites: Placement beyond Learning Support.

VET 110 — Applied Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology (4)

This course parallels a vertebrate zoology course focusing on aspects of anatomy and physiology that have clinical relevance for animal caregivers, animal lab researchers and veterinary practice. Companion, agricultural (large) and exotic species will be covered with reference to human physiology where applicable. Three lecture, two laboratory hours per week.

Prerequisites: VET 101 with a grade of C or higher and admission to the program.

Co-Requisite: VET 150.

VET 125 — Laboratory Animal Care (3)

Physiology, pathology and husbandry of animals commonly encountered among research facilities and companion animal markets will be the focus of this course. Classroom lecture will accompany laboratory sessions designated to acquaint the student with restraint techniques, sampling methods, common medical issues and diagnostic procedures unique to these animals. Small rodents, lagomorphs, birds and reptiles are typically used. Two lecture, two laboratory hours per week.

Prerequisites: Completion of VET 101 with a grade of C or higher and admission to the program.

VET 150 — Clinical Practicum I (4)

This course is a continuation of VET 101 where students proceed to more advanced sets of skill such as: wound management, autoclaves and asepsis, blood and fecal sample evaluation. Clinical practicum will occur on-site and/or at participating private clinics pet facilities. Rehab facilities and laboratories as scheduling permits. Two lecture, six hours clinical experience per week.

Prerequisites: Completion of VET 101 with a grade of C or higher and admission to the program.

Co-Requisite: VET 110.

Contact Information

Name	Email	Telephone
Dr. Doug Shaw, DVM, PhD	Douglas.Shaw@volstate.edu	(615) 230-3262

Address

Math and Science Division
Volunteer State Community College
1480 Nashville Pike, Gallatin, TN 37066