VetTechSchools.orgThe 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.
A vet tech program comprises an associate degree that generally takes from around 16 months to two years to finish. The duration will depend on factors such as whether you attend an online vet tech school or a full-time vet tech program, and the number of credits that you take each term.
Choosing a Vet Tech School
When considering vet tech school, it is essential that you consider choosing a vet tech program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA). There are presently 160 accredited programs throughout the United States; nine of which offer vet tech distance learning programs. Graduation from an AVMA-approved program will ensure your competence as a veterinary technician and result in better job prospects.
For online vet tech school options, visit the list of AMVA-accredited vet tech distance degrees.
If you want to attend a veterinary technician school in person, visit the list of AMVA-accredited on-campus degrees.
What Are the Prerequisites for Admission to a Vet Tech Program?
How do you become a vet tech? First, for admission to a vet technician program, a high school diploma or GED is required. If you are still in high school, it is crucial to take as many biology, math, and science courses as possible.
If you are no longer in high school, community college or university coursework in the same topics, as well as science classes that provide you with practical experience in clinical or laboratory settings, are important. Some veterinary technician schools will also require particular prior coursework such as chemistry or precalculus. Check with the vet tech degree program that you wish to enter.
What Do You Study in a Vet Tech Program?
In a vet tech education, students gain a vast range of the information, knowledge, and skills that will prepare them for work in a veterinary setting -- usually an animal hospital, shelter, or clinic. Topics include the medical terminology, tools, and procedures relevant to animal care, the proper care and use of laboratory equipment and specimen collection, and research project planning and coordination. Here are some titles of real-life classes offered in vet tech school:
- Canine and Feline Clinical Management
- Dentistry Techniques
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Large Animal Medicine
- Principles of Anethesia
- Understanding Animal Disease
- Veterinary Office Management
Oftentimes, online vet tech degree students will already be employed in veterinary clinics, and this factor can definitely help the student gain or develop animal care and handling experience. Some vet tech programs also have on-site animal care facilities or laboratories, where students can gain practical, hands-on experience.