Animal Science Office Assistant Certificate

28‐Credit Certificate Program

Hegis Code: 5402
NYSED Code: 27927

Program Description

This program has been developed through a close collaboration of SUNY Ulster faculty, regional veterinarians, and licensed veterinary technicians to meet the training needs of students and practicing veterinary professionals. The overall goal of the program is to provide students with the training necessary to become successfully employed as animal science office assistants and to provide the community with highly trained and experienced graduates to fill the need for competent workers in this field. Upon completion of the program, students should be able to demonstrate basic knowledge of animal nutrition, anatomy and physiology, infectious disease, and medical terminology, as well as the office skills necessary for the maintenance of a veterinary practice.

NOTE: Those interested in pursuing a degree in Veterinary Technology should inquire about the Veterinary Technology A.A.S. program.

Program Outcomes

At the completion of the Certificate in Animal Science Office Assistant, a student will be able to

• Demonstrate basic knowledge of medical terminology;
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of animal nutrition, anatomy and physiology, and infectious disease;
• Apply office skills necessary to the maintenance of a veterinary practice.

Employment Potential

This program was designed as a direct result of requests from community employers. A survey of need was conducted for this program among veterinarians in Ulster County and surrounding counties. The responses indicated that this program would help fill their need for skilled employees. Students completing this program would be paid at an hourly wage significantly higher than employees who had not completed this program.

Requirements for Program Entry

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Satisfactory placement in Entering Student Assessment

Developmental Assistance Available

For students who do not meet basic reading and math requirements or who have other learning issues, extra assistance is readily available through SUNY Ulster’s Learning Center, The Gary and Janaki Math Center, the Writing Center, the Peer and Friend Tutor Program, and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutors.

NOTE: Animal Science Office Assistant students must achieve a minimum grade of C in all required Veterinary Technology Science (VTS), Biology (BIO), Mathematics (MAT), Science (SCI), and Chemistry (CHE) courses in order to progress in the Animal Science Office Assistant program or to be eligible for graduation.  Students may only attempt a Veterinary Technology Science (VTS), Biology (BIO), Science (SCI), or Chemistry (CHE) course once.  If unsuccessful the second time, they may not continue in the Animal Science Office Assistant program. Withdrawal from a course with a grade below C is considered an “attempt.” Students must supply their own transportation to off campus labs and learning sites. 

For More Information

For more information contact Admissions 1‐800‐724‐0833 ext. 5018 or 5022

Beth Alden, D.V.M.
Coordinator, Veterinary Programs
Office: Hardenbergh Hall, HAR 218
Phone: 800:724‐0833, ext. 5233 or 845:687‐5233
E‐mail: aldenb@sunyulster.edu