What Schooling Is Required for a Vet Tech?
A career as a veterinary technician or technologist is rewarding, challenging and sometimes dangerous. Candidates must possess a strong love of animals to meet the emotional and physical requirements of the occupation. The job duties of a technician and technologist are very similar in nature. However, the two differ on the level of education required.
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High School
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A high school degree is required for entrance into a veterinary program. Students should begin preparing for veterinary programs in high school. They are encouraged to take classes that specifically apply to the field. Recommended classes include math and biology.
Types
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There are four options for training in the veterinary field. Vocational schools offer two-year programs in laboratory animal science. Approximately 10 schools offered distance learning classes as of 2010. Veterinary clinics prefer accredited degrees. Programs are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). In 2009, 45 states offered about 160 AVMA accredited programs.
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Associate's Degree
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The two-year program is for veterinary technicians. Entry level veterinary technicians need an associate's degree from an accredited college program. Courses for the program are in laboratory and clinical settings. Students work with live animals. Required courses for a degree generally include anesthesiology, animal nursing, anatomy, radiology, physiology, parasitology, pharmacology, dentistry, zoonotic diseases and public health.
Bachelor's Degree
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The four-year program is for veterinary technologists. Approximately 20 colleges offer accredited bachelor's degree programs in veterinary technology. Four-year degrees provide more intensive hands-on training with the use of medical and diagnostic equipment. They require the same basic courses as associate degree programs. The four-year program gives students the ability to enter the profession at a higher level and to spend less time in on-the-job training.
Certification
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After graduating from an AVMA-accredited program, students must take the credentialing exam to practice in a clinical setting. The exam is required by every state. The majority of states use the National Veterinary Technician (NVT) exam. The exam tests the applicant's knowledge and skill set as it relates to the medical care of animals. The exam includes practical, written and oral components. Exams are regulated by state agencies or the State Board of Veterinary Examiners. The scores can be transferred from one state to another to meet certification and licensing requires if both states use the NVT exam.
The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) is recommended for prospective vet techs wishing to practice in a research facility. The AALAS has certification in three principal areas: animal husbandry, animal health and welfare, and facility management. The AALAS certification is much more difficult and requires work experience in the veterinary field.
Personal Qualifications
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Veterinary technicians must use interpersonal and communication skills. Communication skills are vital for communicating with pet owners, co-workers and supervisors. Teamwork is a characteristic of most veterinary practice environments. The ability to work well with others is vital to success. Attention to detail and organizational skills are also important.
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