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The Veterinary Technician Program
Veterinary technician programs prepare their graduates for careers as assistants to veterinarians and sometimes research scientists. Vet tech programs teach students about animal anatomy, laboratory work, testing procedures, surgical care, and other duties that are very similar to what a nurse or physician assistant does for a medical doctor. Some vet techs also perform duties as X-ray technicians.
Read MoreObtaining Certification as a Veterinary Technician
State regulation of the veterinary technician profession varies, but all 50 states require new veterinary technicians to pass an examination. The most commonly known and required certifying test for vet techs is the National Veterinary Technician Examination (NVTE).
Read MoreEmployment and Job Outlook for Veterinary Technicians
The vast majority of veterinary technicians, about 90 percent according to the U.S. Department of Labor, are employed in veterinary services -- usually an animal clinic or hospital. Vet techs, however, are also found in a variety of other animal care and laboratory settings. Veterinary technicians can find work in places like:
Read MoreFinding Employment as a New Veterinary Technician
The career outlook for veterinary technicians in the next several years is extremely positive, due to the high demand and the small number of graduates of vet tech schools each year. Indeed, a "CBS Evening News" feature story that aired in spring 2009 deemed veterinary technician jobs “recession-proof.” The U.S. Department of Labor projects that there will be a nearly 40 percent increase in employment of veterinary technicians during the period of 2008-2018. Vet tech jobs are secure, stable, and on the rise, with American pet owners wanting the very best medical care for their animals no doubt contributing to the profession’s growth.
Read MoreBeyond the Vet Tech Program: Stay Professionally Involved
As a practicing veterinary technician, or as a student in a vet tech degree program, it can be immensely beneficial and enjoyable to be an active member of a professional association for vet techs or other professionals who work with animals.
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