Veterinary Technology
Degrees Offered
Associate in Applied Science. To learn more about this program visit our on line catalog.
Program Summary
Students in the Veterinary Technology program prepare for professional opportunities as veterinary technicians, forming an important link between animals and veterinarians.
Under the supervision of a veterinarian, students gain practical experience in:
- Laboratory
- Pharmacy;
- Radiology; and
- Surgery.
Vermont Tech’s Veterinary Technology program has full accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Take a look at our facilities. The newly renovated laboratory includes an expanded surgical suite and more animal care rooms.
Areas of Study
Students learn in a personalized environment that is supported by labs, surgical facilities, and a working farm. The low student-teacher ratio, tutoring, and strong student support services on campus all contribute to the success of the program and its graduates.
A full-time veterinarian instructs students in the core program with support from other faculty and a full-time veterinary technician.
Specific courses are taught on a practical level, with the intent of making the student a competent assistant. Hands-on experience in the laboratories is stressed.
The college farm gives students excellent exposure to dairy cattle and horses, and the facility on the main campus provides a modern setting for experience with dogs, cats, mice, and rats. Basic restraint and handling is also taught on sheep, chickens, and rabbits.
Career Opportunities
Employment opportunities for graduates of the Veterinary Technology program include positions with:
- Veterinary practices;
- Universities;
- Pharmaceutical/biological research companies;
- Diagnostic labs;
- Feed companies;
- Zoos;
- Government veterinary facilities;
- Animal shelters and humane societies.
The veterinary industry shows high demand for graduates of the Veterinary Technology program, and this demand is expected to continue to grow.
Some students pursue additional educational opportunities at other educational institutions. Graduates of the Veterinary Technology program may apply to Bachelor’s degree programs in Animal Science, Veterinary Technology, and related fields.
The program is not designed, however, as preparation for veterinary school specifically. Rather, the Veterinary Technology program trains students to provide key support to practicing veterinarians.
Enrollment Information
Because of a high demand for this program, students are advised to apply early.
The program usually accepts 24-28 freshman students.
Certifications
Graduates are qualified to pursue voluntary certification offered by the Vermont Association of Veterinary Technicians, however this certification is not required for practice in Vermont.
Certification requirements outside of Vermont are determined by state. The Veterinary Technology program at Vermont Tech meets or exceeds requirements for all states that require such certification.
Prerequisites and Other Requirements
Applicants are required to have a personal interview with program faculty.
The college strongly recommends that Veterinary Technology students receive human prophylactic rabies vaccine, which is available through the college in the fall semester. Vaccination is at the students' expense. An information session on the vaccine is held early in the fall.
The minimum number of credits required for a degree is 69.
Campus Locations
The Veterinary Technology program is offered at Vermont Tech's campus in Randloph Center.