what course are required for vet tech

What basics do you need for vet tech?

Typical courses in these veterinary technology programs include mammalian anatomy & physiology; veterinary medical calculations; pathology; parasitology; veterinary clinic management; research methods; animal nursing; anatomy & physiology; microbiology; pharmacology; diagnostic imaging; animal dentistry; clinical ...

Do you need to know chemistry to be a vet tech?

Being a vet tech is a science-based career, so high school students interested in becoming vet techs should take science courses such as chemistry and biology in school, as well as math courses.

What kind of math do vet techs use?

Calculus. College-level calculus is required to gain admittance to many veterinary schools. According to the Dartmouth College Undergraduate Advising and Research Department, many veterinary schools require at least one term of calculus.

Is there a lot of math in vet tech school?

Most vet schools require a year of calculus and a semester of statistics. But they also require general chemistry and some require biochemistry. So far working as a tech I haven't had to do any higher math--just lots of conversions and dosage calcluations.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

It can take as little as nineteen months.

Do I need to be certified as a vet tech?

Most jobs require a credentialing exam. Different states have different requirements for certification.

Where can I work as a vet tech?

Vet techs work in veterinary clinics, at higher education institutions and in research facilities and labs.

How many hours do you need to be a vet tech?

Veterinary surgical technicians—the group requiring the most rigorous training—must have 10,000 hours (i.e., five years) of experience as a vet tech prior to seeking credentialing through the Academy of Veterinary Surgical Technicians (AVST). At least 6,000 of these hours must have been in a surgical environment with 4,500 dedicated exclusively to performing surgical duties.

How many hours of experience do you need to become a vet tech?

The main credentialing entity in this field is the Academy of Veterinary Nutrition Techs, which requires candidates to show proof of state vet tech credentialing; have at least 4,000 hours of relevant experience; complete 40 hours of qualifying CE; and provide evidence of advanced competence through case logs, in-depth case reports, and letters of recommendation. This VTS specialty can be completed in either clinical or research areas.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

Veterinary technicians typically have a two-year associate degree , while technologists have a four-year bachelor’s degree and may take on greater responsibilities in a clinic.

What does a vet tech do?

What is a Veterinary Technician and What Do Vet Techs Do? A veterinary technician—a trained nurse for animals—carefully opens a sleeping dog’s mouth. They reveal two rows of sharp teeth and start taking x-rays to show weaknesses where the enamel has worn down over time.

What is anesthesia tech?

Veterinary anesthesia techs help provide pain management during animal surgical procedures. These specialists are credentialed by the Academy of Veterinary Technicians in Anesthesia and Analgesia (AVTAA) after accumulating 4,500 hours in administering anesthesia; completing at least 50 case logs; writing four in-depth reports; submitting 40 hours of continuing education (CE); and passing an exam.

How long is a dermatologist's certification valid?

The certification is valid for three years.

What is a veterinarian practice technician?

Veterinary clinical practice technicians have targeted skills working in an animal healthcare clinical setting, typically with a specific species. The Academy of Veterinary Technicians in Clinical Practice (AVTCP) offers three specialized VTS credentials in this area: canine/feline, exotic companion animal, or production medicine.

How many years of college do you need to become a vet tech?

Veterinary technicians only need a two-year degree, while veterinary technologists must complete a four-year college program. The pay is slightly better for veterinary technologists, although there is also the cost of additional schooling to consider.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

A veterinary technician must complete college-level coursework that is spread out over a two-year period and that results in the awarding of an Associate’s Degree of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology. This two-year path limits the amount of debt incurred and can also fast-track vet techs into the veterinary profession. Most students do not exceed $20,000 in debt when they are finished attending a veterinary technician program. Distance learning is another option that is available online. Veterinary technician prerequisite courses can be taken at the high school level as that prepares students to get a fast start in this line of work.

How many AVMA accredited veterinary tech schools are there?

There are 209 AVMA accredited veterinary technology programs for veterinary technicians/technologists across the country. There are even programs available online for distance education. To find a school with an accredited program, click here. (Note: as of 2021, Alaska, District of Columbia, and South Dakota have no AVMA-accredited veterinary technology programs). Attending an accredited program can take care of the first step of the licensing process.

What do vet techs do?

Entering into a career as a vet tech, or a veterinarian, involves completing much coursework that deals with the sciences. Aspiring vet techs take courses involving anatomy and physiology, parasitology, hematology, radiology, anesthesiology, laboratory procedures and more. Large and small animal medicine is also covered over the two-year span in which prospective vet techs will become acquainted with a variety of sciences. Of course, the coursework required of veterinarians is more involved, including three years of classroom, lab and clinical work. The fourth year is typically reserved for clinical rotations at an animal hospital or veterinary facility. A state license is required in every state in order to begin working as a veterinarian.

What is VTNE in veterinary?

Graduates from accredited programs are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), sponsored by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB).

What is the difference between a veterinary technician and a veterinary tech?

Another type of job within the veterinary field that should be mentioned is veterinary technologists. This profession differs from that of veterinary technicians, as the duties, training and mandatory education are not the same. Veterinary technicians only need a two-year degree, while veterinary technologists must complete a four-year college program. The pay is slightly better for veterinary technologists, although there is also the cost of additional schooling to consider. There are more choices across the country when it comes to finding a school with a veterinary technician program, and students do not have to travel as far from home.

How many hours of clinical experience do you need to become a vet tech?

Earn your AVMA CVTEA accredited associate degree through our flexible, affordable, and career-focused vet tech program online. The program includes 270 hours of clinical experience, giving you hands-on practice working with animals while you do your coursework online.​

What certification do you need to be a veterinarian?

Most states use the National Veterinary Technician exam. Employers recommend American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification for anyone seeking employment in a research facility.

What is the state exam for a veterinary technician?

Passing a state exam assures the public that the veterinary technician or technologist has sufficient knowledge to work in an animal clinic or hospital. Candidates are tested for competency through an examination that includes oral, written, and practical portions.

What is required to become an AALAS certified?

Anyone who wishes to become certified must satisfy a combination of education and experience requirements prior to taking the AALAS examination. Work experience must be directly related to the maintenance, health, and well-being of laboratory animals and must be gained in a laboratory animal facility as defined by AALAS.

How many accredited schools are there for veterinary medicine?

There are more than 100 schools accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (see: What is the AVMA?) where interested individuals can prepare for this exciting and rewarding career choice. In these programs, courses are taught in clinical and laboratory settings using live animals.

How many days of continuing education is required for AVMA?

The AVMA offers continuing education opportunities through attendance at their national convention held annually – the Journal of American Veterinary Medical Association – and one to five day continuing education courses held at various locations throughout the country.

How long does it take to become a scuba diver?

Although it takes a minimum of a two-year education commitment, the personal and professional rewards received are worth all the effort.

How to become a vet tech?

How to Become a Veterinary Technician 1 Start early with science and biology classes in high school. It’s never too early to begin broadening your skills. Whether still in high school or later at a community college, consider taking biology and other science prerequisite classes. 2 Earn an associate degree from an accredited program. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredits both bachelor’s and associate degree programs. 3 Take the credentialing exam. Many states require successful passing of the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

Are you wondering how to become a vet tech? Nearly all veterinary technicians are required to have an associate degree while veterinary technologists may need a four year bachelor’s degree, depending on the state. Most states require a credentialing exam. It’s a good idea to check local or state agencies for credentialing and other vet tech requirements.

What are the benefits of being a vet tech?

Benefits of Being a Vet Tech. If you love animals and want to work with them professionally, a career as a veterinary technician offers you the chance to help animals in both in-person or research settings. You also have the chance to work with pet owners and ease their fears or educate them about their pets.

How much does a vet tech make?

The median salary for veterinary technologists and technicians in May 2019 was $35,320 with the lowest 10% earning around $24,530 and the highest 10% earning $51,230. Typically, those working in research settings make more. The highest paid vet techs worked in colleges or universities (average salary $40,990) followed by veterinary services ...

Why is it important to have a vet tech?

Physical strength: vet techs may need to lift or restrain larger animals.

What is a veterinarian technician?

A veterinarian technician works under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. They typically work in practices that care for cats and dogs but may also work with mice, cattle, primates or other animals. Some veterinary technicians specialize in a discipline such as anesthesia, emergency care, dentistry or zoological medicine.

Where do vet techs work?

Vet techs work in veterinary clinics, at higher education institutions and in research facilities and labs.

VET SCHOOL COURSE REQUIREMENTS

Specific vet school requirements vary from program to program, but almost all vet schools require undergrad courses, standardized testing, recommendations, experience with animals, and the reason why they should admit you to their highly competitive veterinary medicine program.

UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION

The best undergrad for vet school is the one that has all the school’s prerequisite course requirements. Most applicants to vet school have completed four years of undergraduate education.

THE GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATION

The Graduate Record Examination ® (GRE®) is a standardized test for undergraduates who are considering a higher education degree. The GRE tests your ability to understand and analyze written materials, apply critical thinking skills, analyze ideas or arguments, and use basic math skills to solve problems and analyze data.

DOCUMENTED ANIMAL CARE EXPERIENCE

Caring for your family dog was an education in patience, persistence, love, and sometimes heartbreak. Unfortunately, this experience doesn’t count in the eyes of the vet school admissions board.

LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

Most vet schools require at least one letter of recommendation. While letters from college professors highlight your ability to perform well in a classroom or lab, a letter from a supervising DVM will make you stand out and may be required or recommended for admission.

THE ESSAY

Vet schools typically require at least one personal essay or statement as part of the application. Your personal statement should be an honest look at your journey and why you want to be a vet. Be passionate and sincere. The admissions committee should feel like they are getting to know you and what drives your desire to be a vet.

PREPARING FOR VET SCHOOL

As we’ve seen, vet school requirements demand planning. As soon as you decide you want to become a veterinarian, start developing a roadmap to vet school.

How many hours do you need to become a veterinary tech?

Most accredited veterinary technology programs will consist of 240 hours of on-site practicum and a minimum of 60 credit hours. 2. Get certified. Most states require veterinary technicians to become certified by taking a credentialing exam.

How to become a vet tech?

The following are the steps that most individuals take when pursuing a career as a veterinary technician: 1. Obtain an associate's degree. As mentioned earlier, aspiring vet techs are required to have a minimum of a two-year associate's degree in veterinary technology.

What are the subjects covered in the Veterinary Technician exam?

Subjects covered on the Veterinary Technician National Exam include anesthesia, dentistry, surgical nursing, pharmacology, diagnostic imaging and emergency medicine among others. 3. Become a member of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America.

What is a veterinary technician?

A veterinary technician is a professional who works under a licensed veterinarian and provides various medical services to all types of animals to promote their health and wellness. A veterinary technician may provide both emergency and routine medical care for animals and use both clinical skills and knowledge to perform their job duties.

How many hours of observation do you need to become a vet tech?

Some colleges may require aspiring vet techs to have completed up to 20 hours of observation at a veterinary hospital in addition to having received a high school diploma before allowing them to enroll in an associate's degree program.

What is a vet tech?

Veterinary technicians are an essential part of the overall care of animals. Veterinary technicians work under licensed veterinarians and perform a wide variety of tasks within an animal hospital, veterinarian hospital or other locations that provide medical care for animals. If you have a passion for animals and are interested in incorporating ...

How long is the VTNE exam?

This test is typically taken on a computer and is three hours long and includes 170 multiple-choice questions.

How to become a vet tech?

Attending an accredited veterinary technician school has multiple advantages: 1 Federal financial aid is only available to programs with accreditation through an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 2 Graduating from an accredited veterinary technician school tells employers that you have met the education standards of your program and the AVMA professional community as an educated veterinary technician. 3 Students attending nationally accredited vet tech schools are able to transfer earned credits to another nationally accredited program.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

This is the more common degree path for veterinary technicians and takes less time (16-to-24 months) to complete than a bachelor’s degree. This is a big plus if you want to get the ball rolling on your new career as quickly as possible. Typically, these degrees are offered through community colleges.

What does accreditation mean for a veterinary technician?

Accreditation means that a school, university, or program has been reviewed and approved by a third-party accrediting organization, stating that the veterinary technician school meets or exceeds the organization’s standards.

What is a good school for a vet technician?

A good vet technician school will prepare you for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) and immediate placement in a clinic or laboratory. Additionally, accredited veterinary technician programs are required to include internship/externship opportunities in their curriculum.

What is hands on experience in veterinary tech?

Hands-on experience is crucial part of a veterinary technician education. Therefore, in order to qualify for accreditation, schools are required to include a period of hands-on clinical experience for all students. This period is called an internship, externship, preceptorship, or practicum.

What state requires vet techs to graduate?

Each state has its own requirements for candidates. For example, California requires vet techs to graduate from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AMVA) accredited RVT program or a California Veterinary Medical Board (VMB) program, pass the VTNE and undergo various clinical rotations to gain experience.

What is a vet tech specialist?

A veterinary technician specialist (VTS) is a specialized certification for vet techs seeking career advancement after working within the field and gaining a certain level of experience.

What is LVT certification?

LVT credentials certify professionals who meet specific training requirements, pass national exams and receive licensure from their local governing body in order to practice within the veterinary field. Professionals who live in states that mandate licensure typically earn LVTs.

What is the role of a vet tech?

The type of clinical responsibilities a vet tech assumes may depend on where they live and the certification they hold—some states allow vet techs to perform high-level clinical care tasks , while others only permit vet techs to serve in a clinical assistant capacity .

What are the responsibilities of a vet tech?

Vet techs are responsible for various clinical activities within veterinary practices. They handle animal patient intake, physical examinations and assessments, administering medication, client education, laboratory work, specimen collection, radiology examination, surgical nursing and other tasks as needed. The type of clinical responsibilities a vet tech assumes may depend on where they live and the certification they hold—some states allow vet techs to perform high-level clinical care tasks, while others only permit vet techs to serve in a clinical assistant capacity. With this in mind, here are a few examples of duties a vet tech may handle on a day-to-day basis: 1 Collecting patient history 2 Initial examination 3 Taking vital signs 4 Drawing blood 5 Blood testing and urinalysis 6 Emergency first aid 7 Laboratory procedures 8 Taking X-rays 9 Administering medication 10 Anesthesia 11 Educating clients 12 Preparing animals for surgery 13 Assisting veterinarian in surgery 14 Sterilizing diagnostic and surgical equipment

Where do vet techs work?

Vet techs may work in veterinary practices, research institutions, zoos, wildlife medical institutions, private industry, the military, livestock health clinics, pharmaceutical sales, and other environments depending on their specific interests and their available opportunities.

Do you need to pass a VTNE to become a RVT?

Some states require RVT credentials but most do not, as the RVT credential doesn't explicitly require candidates to undergo testing or training in order to be eligible for registration. Even with this, most professionals who pursue an RVT pass the veterinary technician national examination (VTNE).

What classes do vet techs take?

Specifics vary by program, but most veterinary tech programs blend introductory veterinary coursework with business, mathematics, communications, and computer courses. For example, schools may require learners to finish college mathematics and information literacy courses before diving into more advanced vet tech courses like surgical nursing and radiography.

What are the basic courses for a veterinary technician?

Foundational courses cover subjects like mathematics and English, and teach critical skills for day-to-day veterinary technician tasks. Advanced courses cover topics such as biology and nursing, and build off the foundational courses. Learners gain the knowledge necessary to become certified.

How to become a vet tech?

How to Become a Veterinary Technician. Prospective veterinary technicians should first earn a veterinary technician associate degree. Employers prefer candidates who hold at least an associate degree, and some states require veterinary technicians to complete a minimum level of education.

How long does it take to become a vet tech?

Students also learn important computer, IT, and interpersonal skills. Most schools offer veterinary technician associate degrees, which take two years to complete. Learners complete hundreds of hours of clinical experience through internships and externships. Because many vet technician programs embrace online learning, ...

What do you learn in a veterinary tech degree?

During a vet tech degree, students learn how to apply college mathematics to more advanced skills, including measuring doses for animals of different sizes and determining the healthy size or weight of animals.

What is a veterinary technician program?

Veterinary technician programs teach the skills necessary to work in the fast-growing field of veterinary tech. These programs introduce the fundamentals of nursing, anesthesia, pharmacology, surgery, and other veterinary functions. Students also learn important computer, IT, and interpersonal skills.

How much will the veterinary technologist job market grow in 2029?

The BLS projects jobs for veterinary technologists and technicians to grow by 16% between 2019 and 2029, much faster than the national average growth rate for all occupations.