Like humans, animals are susceptible to a variety of illnesses and diseases. Veterinary nursing programs give students the knowledge and skills necessary to diagnose and treat animals. Programs may teach general veterinary nursing skills, and they may also cover specialized veterinary subjects.

An associate of applied science is a program of study that prepared students for entry level position in a wide variety of fields. Students who enter this program typically have the goal of beginning to work immediately upon graduation instead of pursuing further study.