July 25, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re thinking about a career in animal care, you might be wondering: what education do you need to be a veterinary assistant in Canada? Do you need a university degree? Can you start right after high school? What qualifications actually matter to employers?  Here’s the good news: becoming a veterinary assistant doesn’t require years of post-secondary education. In fact, with the right diploma program, you can be job-ready in less than a year. This guide will break down everything you need to know about the educational path to becoming a veterinary assistant and how the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College can get you started on a meaningful career with animals. 

Do You Need a degree to Be a Veterinary Assistant? 

No, you do not need a university or college degree to become a veterinary assistant in Canada. While veterinarians and veterinary technicians must complete multi-year programs and pass licensing exams, veterinary assistants can begin working after completing a diploma or certificate program. Most employers look for candidates who have:  
 

• A high school diploma or equivalent  
• Formal training through a recognized veterinary assistant program  
• Certifications in workplace and animal safety (like WHMIS, CPR, and canine first aid) 
   

Enrolling in a Veterinary Assistant Program 

The most direct route to becoming a certified veterinary assistant is to complete a diploma program like the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College. This 40-week program provides a mix of classroom instruction, lab training, and hands-on experience through a 120-hour practicum. You’ll learn everything from anatomy to client communication, including: 
 

Core Veterinary Assistant Courses: 
 

• Animal Anatomy and Physiology 
• Veterinary Medical Terminology 
• Animal Nutrition and Behaviour 
• Clinical Care and Surgical Preparation 
• Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory Skills 
• Veterinary Office Reception Procedures 
• Pathology and Preventative Medicine 

Industry Certifications That Add Value 

In addition to the diploma itself, many employers expect veterinary assistants to have additional safety and first aid certifications. CDI College includes the following in its program:  
 

• WHMIS 2015 (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)  
• Standard First Aid with CPR-C and AED  
• DOGSAFE® Canine First Aid 

 
These certifications demonstrate your ability to work safely in clinical settings and respond to both animal and human emergencies. 

Why Choose a Diploma Program Over On-the-Job Training? 

Some clinics may offer on-the-job training for veterinary assistants, but completing a diploma program provides clear advantages:  
 

• Structured learning that covers both theory and practice  
• Faster employment because you’re ready to work on day one  
• Stronger resume with recognizable certifications  
• Professional network including instructors, practicum hosts, and classmates 

 
Employers are far more likely to hire someone who’s already proven they understand the basics and have real experience. 

CDI College: Education That Prepares You for the Real World 

The Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma at CDI College offers:  
 

• A fast-tracked, 40-week curriculum  
• Experienced instructors with industry knowledge  
• Flexible study options in British Columbia  
• Built-in practicum placement for real-world experience  
• Career Services support to help you find employment after graduation 
   

It’s everything you need to get started in a career working with animals without spending years in school. 

Final Thoughts 

So, what education do you need to be a veterinary assistant? You don’t need a degree, but you do need the right training. With a high school diploma and a focused, hands-on program like the one offered at CDI College, you can be fully prepared to begin a career in animal care in under a year. 
 

If you’re ready to start a rewarding job working with animals, helping pet owners, and supporting veterinary teams, contact CDI College today and learn more about enrolling in the Veterinary Health Care Assistant Diploma program.