Training Needed to Be a Vet Tech

Veterinary technicians and technologists usually work in animal hospitals and clinics, while some work in biomedical research laboratories, wildlife rehabilitation facilities or zoos. They provide nursing care for animals, collect blood samples, conduct laboratory diagnostic testing and assist veterinarians during examinations and surgery. All states mandate some type of official credentials---certification, registration or licensing---which commonly have similar requirements. Training for vet technicians usually involves graduating from a 2-year associate's degree program, while technologists complete a 4-year bachelor's degree.

Vet Tech Training

To take the Veterinary Technician National Examination for credentialing, an individual must obtain an associate's degree from a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. These programs generally require between 66 and 72 credits, most focused on veterinary practice. As of 2009, there were 154 accredited programs in the United States and Canada, according to the Kent State University website. Some variation in curriculum is typical, but the coursework generally has much similarity.

General Coursework

General coursework provides a foundation for understanding people and interacting with them, as well as developing excellent communication skills. The courses might include psychology of human relations, introduction to sociology, composition, interpersonal communication, ethics and speech. Usually an introduction to college math is also required.

Vet Tech Coursework

Animal science courses typically include zoology, and animal anatomy and physiology. Specific veterinary courses include veterinary office management, 3 semesters of clinical pathology, 2 semesters of surgical nursing and 2 semesters of animal care, infectious animal diseases, medical nursing, anesthesia, radiology, pharmacology and review of hospital supplies. Courses in large animal science might be included, such as large animal nursing and animal husbandry, which is the agricultural practice of breeding and raising livestock. An internship is included in the program.

Veterinary Technologist Identification

A veterinary technologist typically has similar duties as a veterinary technician, but has completed a bachelor's degree in veterinary technology. An individual completing a bachelor's degree might consider applying to veterinary school in the future, or eventually obtaining a research position that would require the 4-year degree.

Veterinary Technology Coursework

Veterinary technology programs typically include the general degree requirements for a bachelor's degree, along with a focus on science and math, such as chemistry, zoology, anatomy and physiology, algebra and trigonometry. Specific veterinary courses include animal nursing, animal health management, parasitology, microbiology, pharmacology, diagnostic instrumentation, technical writing and electives. Clinic rotation also is included.