Harper College will be closed Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day.
Harper College offers a 150-hour Veterinary Assistant Training course that prepares students to enter this in-demand career. The course, which includes 120 hours of instruction and a 30-hour externship, covers topics such as: Basic anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, grooming, recordkeeping, and more.
Veterinary aides or assistants support veterinarians to examine pets for signs of illness, disease, or injury. Vet assistants may work in animal hospitals, clinics, laboratories and pet-related settings. Vet assistants are in strong demand in the Chicago area, with 15% projected job growth in the next several years. Vet assistants have a local media salary of $38,336*. To learn more, visit the Veterinary Assistant career profile.
Ready to start your career in veterinary assisting? Find courses on the Upcoming Courses page or visit How to Register.
Prepares students to work with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary assistants to provide medical care as well as facilitate positive customer relationships. Covers how to complete basic office procedures and provide care to companion animals. Examines veterinary practices in a variety of settings through class field trips, in-class labs, and an internship. Provides students with the experiences necessary to become employed in a veterinary clinic, boarding/grooming facility, animal shelter, animal control facility, or pet store.
Get a list of upcoming veterinary assisting courses offered by Harper College.
Some CPE courses may be eligible for grants and scholarships on a limited basis. We encourage you to apply for funding to learn more about options that may be available to you. To apply, please complete the Scholarship Application form.
For more information, subscribe to our newsletter, or contact Continuing Professional Education by email at cpe@harpercollege.edu or call 847.925.6340.
* Employment data as of August 2025 (source: Lightcast). Visit the Veterinary Assistant career profile for most current information.