Begin Your Veterinary Career in 5 Months
With Our Vet Assistant Certification Program
The Veterinary Assistant School at The Academy of Pet Careers in St. Charles, MO delivers one of the most comprehensive vet assistant programs in the country without the cost, time, or licensing burden of a traditional vet tech degree. In just a few months, you'll graduate with a nationally recognized certification, real clinical experience, and the professional confidence to contribute meaningfully from your very first day on the job.
A rigorous, clinically-informed curriculum at a fraction of the cost of a vet tech degree
No state licensing required — graduate certified and ready to practice immediately
Learn modern, scientific methodologies not available in most vet assistant programs
Small class sizes that ensure individualized instruction and maximize hands-on training
Become a Veterinary Assistant With Our In-Person Program
Receive a free program guide and a call with our admissions team.
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Veterinary Assistant Quick Links
Veterinary Assistant Quick Links
Missouri Vet Assisting Program
Designed for the Real World
The veterinary industry is experiencing nationwide demand for skilled, professionally trained assistants. A formal certification is the most direct, most efficient pathway into that field. APC's Veterinary Assistant Program was built to meet that demand head-on. Through a curriculum that balances clinical instruction with applied learning, our graduates enter the workforce equipped to perform, contribute, and advance.
Every program at APC is grounded in Fear Free practices and our foundational Pet Empowerment philosophy. This prepares you to handle animals with the behavioral understanding and clinical precision that modern veterinary employers expect, and that most vet assistant programs simply don't teach.
Proud to be a part of this school!
This school is amazing. I went through the Vet Assistant program and loved every second of class! Sure there is some textbook stuff, but every minute was fascinating! You also learn a lot more skills so you stand out to employers. My teacher is amazing and cares so much! In fact the whole school cares so much! It’s not like a university where it’s extremely hard and they just want your money. These people really care about their students and the animals. I’m proud to be a part of this school and represent this school throughout my career. Love you guys!
Katie Dinkins
What Sets APC's Vet Assistant Education Apart
Hands-On Learning
Reading about animal handling and actually doing it are two entirely different things. That's why APC's curriculum combines informative lectures with active practice. You will graduate having already worked directly with dogs, cats, and exotic animals.
Small Class Sizes
With a maximum of 15 students per class, every learner receives direct attention from instructors who are experts in the field. This isn't a lecture hall experience, it's personalized guidance in a professionally structured environment.
Modern & Optimized Curriculum
The veterinary field evolves continuously, as does our curriculum. APC actively monitors industry developments, employer expectations, and emerging best practices to ensure every student graduates with current, relevant, and immediately applicable knowledge.
Financial Aid
APC is approved by multiple funding organizations. Our admissions advisors will walk you through our financial aid options, guiding you through every viable path. When you’re called to a career in animal care, cost should never stand between you and your purpose.
Dual Certifications
APC students can pursue certifications across multiple disciplines within the same institution. A dual certification broadens professional experience, improves marketability, and increases earning potential.
Set Up for Success
Every element of our program is catered towards your professional success. The curriculum, instructor, facility, and support systems in place all exist to ensure you graduate prepared to excel.
Job Placement Assistance
Our commitment to your career extends well beyond graduation. APC's career assistance connects you with veterinary employers who are seeking certified graduates, giving you a competitive advantage.
Job-Ready in 5 Months
Vet tech programs take years before you can begin practicing, but APC's vet assisting school is an accelerated program that maximizes efficiency. You'll be ready to contribute to a veterinary team in months.
100% Money Back Guarantee
Our money back guarantee is also known as our “drop window”. It is a 14 calendar-day period at the beginning of a program that allows students to be sure that they have picked out the perfect program for them.
We stand behind the quality and value of all the programs we offer. That's why every new student is protected by APC's 14-day satisfaction guarantee — a full tuition refund window (excluding equipment costs and deposit) at the start of each program, with no questions asked. If for any reason the program isn't the right fit, your investment is protected. Enroll with complete confidence.
Vet Assistants vs. Vet Techs: Understand the Difference
While veterinary assistants and veterinary technicians often work side by side in clinical settings, their education pathways, responsibilities, and earning potential can differ. Understanding these differences is essential as you map out your career in animal healthcare. Explore the comparison below to determine which path best aligns with your goals.
Scope of Work
Vet Assistant
The day-to-day responsibilities of a vet assistant vary based on their experience and their employer. In a hospital or clinic setting, a vet assistant can typically expect to…
- Provide for the husbandry needs for animals in the clinic or hospital’s care.
- Assist veterinarians in exams, surgeries, and other procedures.
- Take patients’ vitals, administer medication, and care for hospitalized animals.
- Communicate with pet owners about their animals’ needs and health concerns.
Vet Tech
Vet techs can do everything a vet assistant can with only a few differences. In addition to the duties listed previously, vet techs can also administer anesthesia. Other than that, they perform most of the same day-to-day tasks. There may be some variations depending on the state in which they practice.
Usually, these students go on to complete their two- or four-year degrees before taking the required national and state examinations to get licensed in their state.
Education
Vet Assistant
Anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent can attend a vet assistant training program. To do so, you’d need to pursue one of three avenues for learning: hands-on school, online school, or apprenticeship. Of these options, a hands-on vet assistant school requires the largest investment but gives you the most comprehensive education.
Vet Tech
The education requirements for vet techs are much more rigorous. Unlike vet assistants, vet techs need to complete a veterinary technology program at a college or university that costs $35,000 to $50,000. The education requirements for vet techs are much more rigorous. Unlike vet assistants, vet techs need to complete a veterinary technology program at a college or university that costs $35,000 to $50,000.
Usually, these students go on to complete their two- or four-year degrees before taking the required national and state examinations to get licensed in their state.
Licensing and Certification
Vet Assistant
There are no licensing requirements for veterinary assistants, which is why professional certifications are so valuable. A quality training program with hands-on experience is all you need to succeed in the field.
Vet Tech
Vet techs need to take and pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination and state examination to get licensed in their state. Once completed, they will receive the title of Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). In some states the term “registered” may be replaced with “licensed” or “certified”.
Salary
Vet Assistant
Because vet assistants do much of the same work as vet techs, their salaries are comparable. In the US, vet assistants make just $4 less per hour on average than vet techs. Published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for vet assistants in the US is $38,990 per year, but some can make as much as $45,000 per year.
As vet assistants don't require the financial investment of a degree, they can end up earning more in the long run.
Vet Tech
Salaries for vet techs and assistants vary by state and experience level. On average, vet techs in the US make around $46,280 per year according the the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some make as much as $55,000 depending on their location and the type of environment they work in.
I highly recommend this place to anyone
who loves animals. I did the vet assistant program,
grooming program and PEP. It really
helped me to get my foot in the door. I’m now
a technician and work at an amazing hospital.
I love this place!
Rachel Stoddart
I had so much fun and learned so much during my time in the Veterinary Assistant class! Everything was very engaging and Katie(teacher) made the class so much fun.
Keith Faulkner
When I graduated I couldn’t have done it without my amazing teachers! they were great! they helped so much in something I didnt understand or didn’t get. if it wasnt for all the positive things they do I wouldn’t
be here!
Jordan Van Lue
Pet Companies That Hire Our Students
Curriculum That Builds the Expertise, Credentials, and Competence
to Launch a Rewarding Veterinary Career
Veterinary Assisting Program
Introduction to Veterinary Assisting
Maintaining a Clean & Safe Environment
Common Veterinary Medical Conditions
Small Animal Identification & Communication
Handling & Restraint of Canines & Felines
Small Animal Husbandry and Nutrition
Laboratory Procedures
Pharmacology and Medical Care
Diagnostic Imaging
Surgical Assisting
Exotics
Large Animals
Being a Valuable Team Member
Career Preparation
Pet CPR & First Aid
I highly recommend studying professional
training at the Academy of Pet Careers! It is a lot of hands-on which is very helpful. The teachers and staff are so amazing and you can almost pretty much make your own schedule. You can go to school and still have a job and the staff is very understanding about your goals.
Katarina Ziegler
Veterinary Assisting Program
Introduction to Veterinary Assisting
Maintaining a Clean & Safe Environment
Common Veterinary Medical Conditions
Small Animal Identification & Communication
Handling & Restraint of Canines & Felines
Small Animal Husbandry and Nutrition
Laboratory Procedures
Pharmacology and Medical Care
Diagnostic Imaging
Surgical Assisting
Exotics
Large Animals
Being a Valuable Team Member
Career Preparation
Pet CPR & First Aid
I highly recommend studying professional
training at the Academy of Pet Careers! It is a lot of hands-on which is very helpful. The teachers and staff are so amazing and you can almost pretty much make your own schedule. You can go to school and still have a job and the staff is very understanding about
your goals.
Katarina Ziegler
Why In-Person Training Produces Better Veterinary Professionals
Hands-on courses are more personalized and comprehensive, offering maximum value for your time.
Live courses are customizable to your unique learning style. Everybody learns at their own pace and no one gets left behind.
You learn from experienced veterinary professionals who know what it takes to succeed in the industry.
Interactive classwork makes learning more enjoyable, and therefore, more memorable.
You learn in a positive and friendly environment with a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for pets.
What Makes The Academy of Pet Careers Unique
We offer dual certification opportunities for you to study multiple trades: dog training, pet grooming, and vet assisting. This offers added job stability and increased income potential.
Our vet assistant training is designed to set the students up for success. We focus on teaching you the skills you need to excel in your desired career.
Our veterinary assistant certification provides the most comprehensive and pertinent information to start your new career – all without the commitment of a vet tech degree.
You learn from experts with over 30 years of experience in the pet industry. Our instructors are accomplished professionals who know what it's like to be in your shoes.
The Academy of Pet Careers in Action
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