Texas 4-H Veterinary Science Project

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers a variety of paths for students to take the veterinary science curriculum including home school and independent study. In addition to the curriculum, there is an apprenticeship requirement if you choose to pursue certification. Successful completion of the Veterinary Science Certificate Program (VSCP) requirements provides a certificate of completion of the program as a veterinary assistant.

An apprenticeship is required for certification. Students must complete 300 hands-on clinical skill hours under the supervision of veterinarian or licensed veterinary technician. This normally takes place in a private veterinary practice, but can also be a zoo, animal shelter, etc., as long as under veterinary supervision. Students will use the VSCP application form/skills validation checklist during the apprenticeship, which will be signed by the DVM and program/homeschool instructor.

A few things you will learn and do in this project are: Animal nutrition, handling and restraining animals, Helping with animal examinations and treatments, infectious diseases of animals, non-infectious diseases and aiding with surgery.

The VSCP offer many events, camps and programming throughout the year. Keep an eye out on our website and social media pages for upcoming events.