Veterinary Medical Receptionist Certificate
“I found that the Veterinary Medical Receptionist program offers a great opportunity to gain exposure in the veterinary field. The program was also very beneficial in strengthening my skills and knowledge of computers. Overall, I feel that the program definitely prepares you to be successful in a clinic environment.”
Megan Fleming, Class of 2016
What can you expect from the program?
Do you enjoy working with people and share a love for animals? The Veterinary Medical Receptionist (VMR) provides client care as the “face of the practice” and hands-on animal care to farm and companion animals, both large and small. The Veterinary Medical Receptionist certificate is currently offered in two delivery methods:
Need more information?
Olds College Admissions
403.556.8281
1.800.661.6537
animals@oldscollege.ca
Host An Olds College Practicum Student
Olds College AHT and VMR programs are looking for locations to host students to complete their industry practicums.
On-Campus Delivery: This 8-month certificate program begins in September and culminates with a four week industry practicum. During their studies, VMR students will learn to understand the importance of the VMR role. We recommend you seek a job shadowing opportunity at your local veterinary clinic.
Online Delivery: Complete the VMR program from home! The new online delivery method will allow students to complete two courses per 7-week block (total of 10 courses). Running from September to August, students will gain their certificate through a combination of distance learning, a one week on-campus laboratory, and an industry practicum.
Admitted students should be aware of occupational programs where potential for exposure to animals with disease/infection is high. Please read more about program specific Immunization Information.
What will you learn?
Students in the Veterinary Medical Receptionist program will learn a variety of office administration and veterinary medicine skills that will train you to become a valued member of a veterinary team. Skills students learn include:
- Explain veterinary procedures, protocols and materials
- Complete veterinary pharmaceutical procedures as directed by a veterinarian
- Explain infectious diseases and prevention
- Identify common breeds, behaviour, and handling of selected species
- Identify the animal systems and components of animal health management
- Interact professionally with clients and staff
- Utilize appropriate software
- Produce professional documents
- Provide veterinary customer service and client education
- Communicate effectively within the animal health industry
Your future
Job opportunities include: veterinary practices, animal shelter, animal care facilities, wildlife rehabilitation centres and boarding facilities.
Visit Career Coach to find current wages, job postings and more!
Program at a glance
Length of Program:
1 Year
Program Intake:
Fall Intake
Delivery:
Olds Campus or Blended
Applications Open:
October 1
Tuition & Fees:
Online: $5,170*
On-Campus: $5,460*
Credential: Certificate
Length of Program: 1 Year
Method of Delivery: Online or On-Campus Delivery
Directed Field Study/Work Term/Practicum: A 4-week (160 hours) practicum is completed at the end of the program.
Program Intakes: Fall Intake (September Program Start)
Applications Open: October 1 for the Fall Intake
Selection Process for Admission: First qualified, First accepted
Tuition, Mandatory Fees, Books, and Supplies: Please refer to the current Fee Schedule for details.
- Online: Tuition & Fees: $5,170 / Books & Supplies: $800
- On-Campus: Tuition & Fees: $5,460 / Books & Supplies: $800
*These fees are provided as estimates only for the purposes of budgeting. Please note that all fees are best estimates and are subject to change.
International Students will require a Co-Op Work Permit as well as a Study Permit for this program.
What do I need to apply?
Admission Requirements:
- 50% or better in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2
- 50% or better in Math 20-1 or Math 20-2
- 50% or better in one of Biology 20, Chemistry 20, or Science 20
- Meet the English Language Proficiency Requirement (completed at minimum 3 years of formal education taught entirely in English or provide the results of a recognized English Language Proficiency exam)
Academic Upgrading and High School Applicants: Applicants currently in high school or who are completing academic upgrading must submit proof of enrollment and any available interim/midterm marks. Final marks must be submitted within one month following the completion of the course(s) and no later than one month prior to the program start date.
Alternate Admission Option: Alternate Admission status may be offered to applicants who have not or will not complete one of the academic admission requirements. To be considered under Alternate Admission Status, applicants will be asked to provide the following:
- (Required) Transcript(s) showing any completed high school and post-secondary courses
- (Required) Letter of Introduction and Intent, outlining the following:
- Introduce yourself
- Indicate why you wish to enrol in the program
- Elaborate on your career goals
- Detail your experience relevant to this program and the industry
- (Required) A resume of your work history, extracurricular activities, volunteer service, etc. for the last 5 years
- (Optional) Include copies of any tickets and/or certificates you currently hold (e.g.: first aid, safety tickets, etc.)
- (Optional) Letter(s) of reference from current or past employers/coaches/etc. (maximum of two letters)
*Submitting Alternate Admission material does not guarantee admission*
Out of Province Applicants: Please refer to the Provincial Equivalency Chart for course equivalencies.
International Applicants: Olds College welcomes applications from international applicants and those who have completed their high school education outside of Canada. Please note, it is still necessary to meet all of the noted admission requirements, including English Language Proficiency. Further information can be found on our website under International Students. International Students will require a Study Permit and a Co-Op Work Permit for this program.
Directed Field Study Required: Students are required to complete a 4-week (160 hour) practicum at the end of the program in order to successfully graduate.