Technicians typically earn a degree in two years. Technologists generally need four years of study to qualify for licensure.
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Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with medical tests, surgeries, and other routine services. While veterinarians must complete a doctorate in veterinary medicine, technicians typically earn a two-year degree or certificate in veterinary technology.
The best veterinary technology degrees are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Programs include general coursework in the life sciences, animal husbandry, and veterinary pharmacology.
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Veterinary technicians must meet the requirements for licensure in their state. Technicians also need to stay up to date with advancements in the field. The profession requires patience, since technicians engage directly with sick or injured animals. Jobs for veterinary technicians continue to grow much faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The following article provides a general overview of the field and ranks the best veterinary technology degrees.
Rank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Sinclair Community College | Dayton, OH |
2 | Central New Mexico Community College | Albuquerque, NM |
3 | Miami Dade College | Miami, FL |
4 | Portland Community College | Portland, OR |
5 | Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City | Kansas City, MO |
6 | San Juan College | Farmington, NM |
7 | Vincennes University | Vincennes, IN |
8 | Valencia College | Orlando, FL |
9 | Edison State Community College | Piqua, OH |
10 | College of Southern Idaho | Twin Falls, ID |
Technicians typically earn a degree in two years. Technologists generally need four years of study to qualify for licensure.
Technicians in most states must meet AVMA’s licensure requirements. This includes specific coursework and an exam.
Technicians work in private veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, laboratories, and university research facilities.
Veterinarians must complete a doctorate in veterinary medicine. Veterinary technicians only need a two-year degree to qualify for most jobs.
Veterinary technicians and technologists may follow a number of career paths. Many work in private veterinary clinics or animal hospitals. Others assist researchers in private laboratories or at university research facilities. Technicians and technologists conduct tests, prepare animals for surgical procedures, and administer medication. Some specialize in areas such as dentistry, anesthesia, or zoological medicine.
Jobs for veterinary technicians continue to grow faster than average. The most recent data from the projects a 16% growth rate from 2019-2029 for veterinary technology jobs. Pay for veterinary technicians varies by location, experience, and specialty. Technicians who work in research positions tend to earn more than those in clinical positions.
Career | Top 10% | Median Annual Salary | Bottom 10% |
---|---|---|---|
Veterinary Technologists and Technicians | Less than $24,530 | $35,320 | More than $51,230 |
Source: BLS
Prospective students in veterinary technology should check the accreditation status of each school before applying. Schools should hold regional accreditation from a credible organization such as the Higher Learning Commission.
The best veterinary technology programs hold accreditation from AVMA. This organization maintains standards for veterinary professions to ensure that technicians gain the proper skills. AVMA also ensures that technicians stay current in the field through continuing education.
Although individual state regulations vary, each state requires veterinary technicians and technologists to qualify for licensure and certification. The American Association of Veterinary State Boards oversees the certification process and verifies that a candidate completed an AVMA-accredited program. Certification also guarantees that a technician possesses the relevant technical skills needed to practice their profession.
Most students also need to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) to qualify for a job in the field. The exam covers topics such as animal care and nursing, anesthesia, and laboratory procedures.
The typical course load for a veterinary technology program includes both general classes in anatomy, physiology, and chemistry, as well as specialized courses. These include classes in veterinary dentistry, pharmacology, and animal husbandry.
Learners study basic medical services, like administering anesthesia or conducting diagnostic testing. Classes teach students how to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to various medical situations. Coursework ensures that students know how to use common veterinary technologies such as X-ray machines.
The courses discussed below represent only a sample of those typically offered in veterinary technology programs.
Veterinary technology students may qualify for several scholarships. Major organizations like the American Kennel Club sponsor these opportunities to provide support for students enrolled in AVMA-accredited programs. Students may seek additional scholarships from their school.
Who Can Apply: The International Association of Pet Cemeteries and Crematories sponsors an annual scholarship for veterinary technology students. Students in their second year of an AVMA-accredited program may apply. Applicants must submit a 250-300 word essay.
Amount: $1,000
Who Can Apply: The American Kennel Club and The Hartz Mountain Corporation co-sponsor this scholarship. It awards funds to students enrolled in AVMA-accredited programs. The organizations evaluate applicants based on academic achievement and extracurricular activity.
Amount: $1,000 or $2,000
Who Can Apply: Oxbow Animal Health offers scholarships to veterinary technology students who show a strong interest in small or exotic animals. Students must submit a resume, one recommendation letter, and proof of enrollment at an AVMA-accredited program.
Amount: $500
Who Can Apply: The Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) offers annual scholarships to students enrolled in various health professions, including veterinary medicine. Students enrolled at any ASAHP member school may apply. Students of any academic level may apply.
Amount: $1,000
The following rankings highlight 25 of the best veterinary technology degrees.
Dayton, OH
Located in Dayton, Ohio, Sinclair offers an associate degree in veterinary technology. The program prepares students for careers in animal clinics, laboratories, zoos, and shelters. The 65-credit curriculum includes classes in animal anatomy and physiology, veterinary pharmacology, and large animal husbandry.
Learners explore various career options during introductory coursework, and most students earn the degree in five semesters. Degree-seekers complete multiple clinical experiences and develop practical skills during placements in veterinary hospitals. Enrollees accumulate more than 500 hours of hands-on experience. Graduates qualify to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Applicants need a minimum 2.7 GPA. Candidates must submit recommendation letters, a resume, and an essay.
Sinclair Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Albuquerque, NM
CNM offers an associate in veterinary technology program on its main campus in Albuquerque. The program prepares students for positions in veterinary healthcare. Most students graduate in five semesters.
Learners begin with coursework in the life sciences to prepare for specialized classes. Students explore topics including radiology for veterinary technicians and applied therapeutics for large and exotic animals. Learners also complete a series of clinical experiences. Graduates of the veterinary technology program qualify to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Students must stay in good physical health and must feel comfortable lifting animals of up to 50 pounds. CNM maintains an articulation agreement with the University of New Mexico, simplifying the transfer process for students who want to pursue further education in veterinary medicine.
Central New Mexico Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Miami, FL
Located in Miami, Florida, MDC offers an associate in veterinary technology degree that prepares students for a variety of veterinary healthcare careers. Graduates can work in clinics, zoos, and research centers.
The 73-credit curriculum includes coursework in veterinary pathology, lab procedures, and animal nursing skills. Students can also take specialized courses in fields such as avian and exotic pet medicine. Students in MDC's veterinary technology program complete some classes online, and they obtain more than 400 hours of clinical experience.
Most students complete the program in about two years. Florida does not require veterinary technicians to hold licensure, but MDC graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Applicants undergo an interview process and background check.
Miami Dade College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Colleges.
Portland, OR
PCC offers an associate in veterinary technology degree at its Rock Creek campus. The program prepares students to work as certified veterinary technicians. Learners develop surgical, medical, laboratory, and interpersonal skills while completing coursework and clinical experiences.
The program requires about two years of studies. Degree-seekers learn about small-animal diseases, animal nutrition, and veterinary pharmacology. Students receive clinical training in hospital settings and in wildlife preserves and zoos. PCC contains a farm, kennel, and cattery. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Applicants must submit transcripts and a recommendation letter, and they must participate in an interview. The college allows students to apply general education transfer credits toward the veterinary technology degree.
Portland Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Kansas City, MO
Located in Kansas City, Missouri, MCC offers an associate degree in veterinary technology and a 19-credit veterinary assistant certificate. Students take veterinary technician courses at MCC's Maple Woods campus.
The associate-level veterinary technology program features specialized classes in equine medicine and large-animal technology. Students also take general coursework in veterinary anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Learners obtain foundational knowledge while completing pre-veterinary coursework, which the college offers on all five of its campuses. MCC's hands-on curriculum prepares students for careers in veterinary technology and nursing.
Most students earn the 78-credit associate in veterinary technology in seven semesters. Applicants must have completed general education requirements and must submit a resume and short essay.
Metropolitan Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Farmington, NM
Located in Farmington, New Mexico, SJC offers an online associate program in veterinary technology, along with certificates in veterinary assistantship and veterinary practice management. The school's veterinary technology programs blend online coursework with off-campus field experiences. The associate program prepares students to assist in surgical, pharmacology, and clinical procedures.
The college offers three start dates each year, and each course lasts 12-16 weeks. Students explore topics including veterinary medical terminology, diagnostic imaging, and clinical pathology. The 76-credit associate degree usually takes six semesters to complete.
Program graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam in any state. Applicants must submit transcripts and a performance standards acknowledgement, which confirms their ability to physically handle both large and small animals.
San Juan College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Vincennes, IN
A public Indiana university, VU offers a certificate in pre-veterinary technology that students typically complete in one year. Graduates of the certificate program often enroll in an associate in veterinary technology program or a pre-veterinary bachelor's program. Students earning the 37-credit certificate gain foundational knowledge in veterinary healthcare.
The curriculum includes general coursework in biology and chemistry and specialized classes such as animal agriculture. After earning the certificate in veterinary technology, graduates often work in private clinics, animal hospitals, and diagnostic laboratories. The certificate qualities holders to assist with various surgical procedures and to provide nursing care to small and large animals.
Prospective students submit an online application and high school transcripts. The university waives the high school transcript requirement for applicants with at least 24 college credits.
Vincennes University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commision.
Orlando, FL
Valencia offers an associate of science in veterinary technology in partnership with St. Petersburg College. Students take general education and core courses through Valencia and specialized veterinary technology courses from St. Petersburg College. The program includes both online and in-person classes.
Valencia's 27-credit core curriculum includes classes in biology, chemistry, and anatomy to prepare students for advanced major coursework. Enrollees also take general education classes in fields such as history, art, and mathematics. Program graduates qualify to sit for the Florida certification exam. Students can receive up to 45 credits for industry certifications, examinations, and prior work experience. Applicants must submit official transcripts and an online application.
Valencia College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Piqua, OH
Located in Piqua, Ohio, Edison State delivers an associate in veterinary technology degree. The program trains students for careers in private practices, hospitals, and specialty clinics. Students typically graduate in six semesters.
Students gain skills in all facets of animal care. They learn to assist veterinarians during surgical procedures and to administer medicine. Degree-seekers also explore specialized topics. The 65-credit program includes courses in veterinary nutrition, small animal wellness, and dentistry. Learners complete clinical experiences in several types of facilities, and graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and must submit official transcripts and standardized test scores. Admitted students must provide evidence of health insurance and required immunizations.
Edison State Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Twin Falls, ID
Based in Twin Falls, CSI offers an associate in veterinary technology program that covers general life sciences topics and specialized subjects. Learners explore areas including veterinary pharmacology and applied radiology.
Housed in CSI's agriculture department, the veterinary technology program involves clinical experiences that prepare students for careers in the field. Degree-seekers learn about anesthesiology, anatomy, and animal diseases. The 69-credit curriculum also requires a series of clinical courses, which feature hands-on training in standard veterinary procedures.
Students must maintain a C average in all veterinary technology courses, and graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. CSI offers credit for completed examinations, work experience, and industry certifications. Applicants must submit transcripts and take placement tests in English and mathematics.
College of Southern Idaho is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The Woodlands, TX
LSC students can pursue an associate of applied science in veterinary technology and a veterinary assistant certificate through the college's Tomball, Texas, campus. Most students earn the degree in two years. Graduates qualify to sit for state and national exams. One of the best veterinary technology degrees for learners who plan to pursue certification, program graduates report a 99.98% pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
The 60-credit curriculum features specialized courses in veterinary ethics, equine clinical management, and veterinary nutrition. Enrollees also take core courses in animal biology, anatomy, and pathology. LSC provides opportunities for learners to obtain clinical experience, including a practicum that learners often complete at animal hospitals and zoos. Applicants must submit official transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. New students may enroll only in the fall.
Lone Star College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Blackwood, NJ
Located in Camden, New Jersey, CCC offers an associate in veterinary technology degree that prepares students for careers in animal health fields. Degree-seekers learn to provide nursing and diagnostic care to small and large animals.
Coursework emphasizes animal anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Students also take classes in veterinary dentistry, radiology, and anaesthesia. Coursework prepares learners to complete specialized medical procedures in clinics, hospitals, and zoos. The associate program also requires a 300-hour, supervised clinical experience.
Veterinary technology students must maintain a minimum 2.6 GPA. CCC admits students for both the fall and spring semesters. Applicants must submit transcripts, and students can transfer general education science credits earned in the last five years.
Camden County College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commision on Higher Education.
Cleveland, OH
Tri-C offers an associate of applied science in veterinary technology at its Metropolitan Campus in Cleveland, Ohio. The program prepares aspiring veterinary technicians to provide animal healthcare in a variety of settings. Students gain more than 500 hours of clinical experience, and graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
The program requires general science courses and specialized major classes. Learners begin their studies with biology, anatomy, and physiology courses. These foundational classes prepare students for coursework in diagnostic imaging, pharmacology, and dentistry. Degree-seekers typically complete the 64-credit program in two years. Applicants must submit official transcripts, take placement exams, and have a minimum 2.75 GPA. Prospective students must undergo a background check and health screening.
Cuyahoga Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commision.
Columbus, OH
Located in Columbus, Ohio, CSCC offers an associate in veterinary technology program that trains students to provide compassionate medical care to animals. The college maintains partnerships with more than 160 facilities, at which learners can complete their clinical training. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam in any state.
Degree-seekers can enroll full time or part time. Part-time students typically graduate in 11 semesters, and full-time learners usually need five semesters. Courses focus on various facets of animal healthcare, including biology and anatomy. Learners also take specialized classes in veterinary surgical techniques and exotic animal medicine.
Prospective students must attend a veterinary technology information session prior to applying. Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and must submit transcripts. Admitted students undergo a background check and a drug test.
Columbus State Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Santa Rosa, CA
SRJC offers a 23-credit certificate in veterinary technology program designed for current veterinary assistants. Learners explore diagnostic and nursing techniques for companion animals, and they prepare to assist veterinarians during medical procedures.
Learners study part time and typically earn the veterinary technician certificate in 3-4 semesters. Coursework focuses on small-animal care. Students learn how to administer anesthesia and medications, and learners can take courses on dentistry and disease transmission control. After completing an additional 24 hours of clinical training, graduates qualify to take California's registered veterinary technician exam. SRJC accepts lower-division transfer credits and awards credit for Advanced Placement courses. Prospective students submit an online application and official transcripts.
Santa Rosa Junior College is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Moline, IL
Located in Moline, Illinois, BHC offers an associate of applied science in veterinary technology that prepares students to perform standard veterinary procedures. The curriculum includes general and specialized courses in various areas of veterinary medicine.
Learners complete biology and chemistry coursework and take classes on veterinary medical techniques. The 80-credit program also features specialized courses on equine healthcare and management. Students typically earn the degree in 5-6 semesters.
Applicants need a high school diploma or the equivalent and must participate in a personal interview. Additionally, prospective students must shadow a registered veterinary technician for 40 hours prior to admission. Enrolled students must maintain at least a C average in all veterinary technology coursework.
Black Hawk College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Cedar Rapids, IA
A public college in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kirkwood delivers a veterinary technician associate degree, which most students complete in two years. Degree-seekers learn how to care for hospitalized animals, administer medications, and perform diagnostic services.
Kirkwood's veterinary technology program features courses in veterinary clinic pathology, animal nursing, and diagnostic technologies. Students also participate in a 300-hour internship, during which learners apply classroom skills in clinical settings. The college offers several clubs for veterinary technology students. For example, the Animal Health Technology Club helps students learn about career options.
Prospective students submit an online application and participate in a one-hour conference call, during which applicants receive information about the program's admission requirements. The veterinary technician program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Kirkwood Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tucson, AZ
PCC offers a veterinary technician associate degree on campus in Tucson, Arizona. The curriculum includes foundational coursework and hands-on clinical experiences. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Enrollees explore topics including animal anatomy and clinical pathology. Degree-seekers learn to care for large and small animals, and clinical training prepares students to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and surgery. Students also learn how to operate veterinary technologies. The program requires 65-72 credits.
Applicants must provide proof of medical insurance and immunizations and must have completed prerequisite coursework. The veterinary technician program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Pima Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Paramus, NJ
Located in Paramus, New Jersey, Bergen Community College offers an associate in veterinary technology program that prepares learners for careers as registered veterinary technicians. Degree-seekers explore various aspects of animal healthcare through coursework and clinical training.
The 60-credit curriculum includes courses in veterinary pharmacology and large-animal nursing. Learners also take specialized classes such as diagnostic imaging, which prepares students to operate diagnostic technologies, including X-ray machines. Some courses take place off campus at clinical facilities. Students also complete general coursework in the life sciences and usually graduate in two years.
Prospective students take a health professions assessment exam. Applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA and must undergo a background check. New students enroll during the spring semester.
Bergen Community College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Gardner, MA
MWCC offers an associate in veterinary technology program at its campus in Gardner, Massachusetts. Through on-campus classes and experiential learning components, students gain skills in several areas of veterinary science. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
The program features courses in surgical nursing and dentistry, domestic animal behavior, and veterinary radiology. Students learn how to execute laboratory tests, administer medication, and provide compassionate animal care. The 72-credit curriculum also requires internships, during which learners apply technical skills to clinical situations. Most students complete the program in two years.
Applicants submit an online application and official transcripts. Prospective veterinary technology students must also provide health exam results, proof of immunizations, and CPR certification. The veterinary technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Mount Wachusett Community College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Denver, CO
CCD students can earn an associate in veterinary technology and a certificate in veterinary technology. Learners can enroll full time or part time. The programs prepare students to assist veterinarians during medical procedures. The associate program offers three pathways: a two-year track, a three-year track, and an apprenticeship track.
The 16-credit certificate program includes coursework in veterinary medical terminology and surgery and nursing care. The curriculum prepares learners for careers as veterinary assistants.
CCD's associate degree requires 75 credits and includes coursework in veterinary anatomy and physiology. Degree-seekers also take specialized courses such as exotic-animal handling, diagnostic imaging, and animal nutrition. Learners develop practical skills during a series of three internships. CCD offers many required classes online.
Prospective students must complete an observation process, which involves observing two veterinary technicians for four hours. Additionally, applicants must submit transcripts and reference letters.
Community College of Denver is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tulsa, OK
TCC students can pursue an associate in veterinary technology at the West Campus. The program prepares students for careers as registered veterinary technicians. The curriculum includes introductory coursework in animal healthcare and specialized classes in microbiology, radiology, and pharmacology.
One of the best veterinary technology degrees for working professionals, TCC's program features two pathways. Students in the full-time track typically graduate in two years, while learners in the part-time usually earn the degree in three years. Degree-seekers can join TCC's Veterinary Technology Student Association to network with peers. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Prospective students must have completed general education requirements and must submit official transcripts. Additionally, applicants must shadow a veterinary professional. The veterinary technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Tulsa Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Statesboro, GA
Located in Statesboro, Georgia, Ogeechee Tech offers an associate in veterinary technology degree, a veterinary technician assistant certificate, and a veterinary technology sonographer certificate. Learners gain practical skills they can apply to any career in veterinary medicine.
The 80-credit associate program requires general education coursework and specialized classes in veterinary science. Degree-seekers study topics including veterinary pathology and anesthesiology. Learners also complete an internship in a local clinical setting. Students obtain more than 540 hours of clinical experience, and graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Applicants to any of the college's veterinary technology programs must submit official transcripts and meet testing requirements. Applicants to the associate program must have completed 40 hours of volunteer work in a veterinary facility. The veterinary technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Ogeechee Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Owensboro, KY
OCTC offers an associate in veterinary technology program at its campus in Owensboro, Kentucky. The two-year program prepares students to work in veterinary facilities including clinics and hospitals. Graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
The 70-credit curriculum includes classroom training and clinical experiences. Students take classes on medical terminology and animal anatomy. Specialized coursework emphasizes clinical procedures and prepares students for work in local veterinary facilities. Learners complete at least two clinical practicum experiences.
Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA and must pass a general education placement exam and submit ACT scores. Additionally, applicants participate in a personal interview and an eight-hour clinical observation.
Owensboro Community and Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Thomasville, GA
Located in Thomasville, Georgia, SRTC offers an associate in veterinary technology program that prepares students to become compassionate veterinary technicians. The curriculum emphasizes small-animal care, and graduates qualify to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. SRTC maintains a transfer agreement with St. Mary's University to help graduates pursue doctoral studies in veterinary medicine.
Students typically complete the 83-credit degree in two years. Learners prepare to assist veterinarians during a variety of medical procedures. Degree-seekers take classes in clinical pathology, diagnostic techniques, and anesthesiology, and they complete a 12-credit clinical internship. Students must maintain at least a C average in all required courses.
Applicants must submit official transcripts and must complete general education courses and an assessment. The veterinary technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Southern Regional Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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