How to Get Career Training in High School or College to Become a Veterinary Technician

Choosing to become a veterinary technician as a long-term profession can be a very rewarding experience. You'll need both educational training and hands-on technical skills to develop your career as a veterinary technician, and there is no such thing as too much training! You will first need a degree, and then a state license to practice as a veterinary technician. Veterinary technicians enjoy working with cats and dogs, but may also find employment treating animals at zoos, scientific labs, or taking part in ongoing research. Private practices are a popular choice for many veterinary technicians, and these can be set up as complete businesses. Whatever your long-term career goals may be, doing well in both high school and college will lay the foundation for a successful career in the animal care profession.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

High School Requirements

1. Maintain a strong academic record in all classes to be well-rounded at graduation.

2. Take part in extra-curricular activities that focus on animal studies; join the 4-H club, or contact local vets in your community.

3. Obtain solid references and referrals from teachers, counselors and the principal to apply for college.

4. Volunteer at a local veterinary office or organization to gain some hands-on experience in your field.

College Requirements

5. Find out if your local technical college offers a Veterinary Technician program, or if you will need to transfer elsewhere to pursue it.

6. Pursue an Associates of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology available at select schools around the country.

7. Prepare for the Certified Veterinary Technician exam.

8. After passing the Certified Veterinary Technician exam, you can obtain accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

9. Consult the American Veterinary Medical Association to find your specific state's requirements prior to recognition, any examination fees and other information you will need to practice.

10. Pursue a four-year baccalaureate degree in lieu of an associate's degree if you prefer; a four-year degree may increase your chances of a higher salary and more opportunities in the field.

11. Visit the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America to network and find training information around the country.

12. Obtain recommendations and referrals from colleagues, trainers, professors and teachers in your field when approaching potential employers.

Tips & Warnings

• It's important to check your state's requirements on an ongoing basis to make sure your licenses and examinations are up to date. Some states offer reciprocity to technicians who are certified, registered, or licensed in other states.
• Some states require additional supervised training beyond traditional standards.
• Remember that the veterinary field is diverse. You can choose to work as an Animal Health Technician or Licensed Veterinary Technician, pursue a career in scientific research, or even join associations at the local zoo or animal research labs.

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