If you are an animal lover and want to work with animals, then you may want to consider becoming a veterinary technician. It’s an extremely rewarding career and one that has many job opportunities in both private practice and clinics. The average salary for a veterinary technician is $36,850 per year, so it can make for a very good living if you choose the right education pathway
How to become a Veterinary Technician
The requirements to become a veterinary technician vary by state, but generally include the following:
- Highschool Education: The first step is to finish high school or earn a GED. If you are currently in high school, it is a good idea to start preparing for your veterinary technician career by taking science courses such as biology and chemistry.
- College Degree: Veterinary technicians are required to have an associate degree in veterinary technology from an AVMA accredited program. These programs typically take two years to complete and include coursework in animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nursing, and laboratory procedures.
- Externship: Many programs require externships or clinical hours, which will involve additional time outside of your scheduled classes.
- Certification: Many states require veterinary technicians to pass a certification exam, such as the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), in order to practice.
How To Get Certified As A Veterinary Assistant
The first step toward becoming a certified Veterinary Assistant is to obtain professional credentials. This can be accomplished by completing a qualified NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program, following which students will be given a code to take the AVA exam. The exam is proctored and consists of 100 questions that must be answered in 150 minutes with a passing score of 75%.
The AVA certification is good for two years. Furthermore, some jurisdictions, such as the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) and the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, may offer their own certification (FVMA).
Maintaining Veterinary Assistant Certification
Vet assistants must complete 10 credits of continuing education every two years to keep their AVA certification. This can be accomplished by attending classes, conferences, online courses, and in-person seminars.
It is important to check the specific requirements for becoming a veterinary technician in your state, as they can vary.
Difference Between A Vet Technician And A Vet Technologist
It is easy to confuse the two professions, but it is important that you know the difference which is highlighted in their respective education requirements and job roles.
| Veterinary Technician | Veterinary Technologist | |
| Education | Must have at least an associate’s degree. | Must Have a Bachelor’s degree |
| Work environment | works in animal shelters, veterinary clinics, wildlife sanctuaries | Works in research or Lab environment |
Regardless of whether their education was in the form of a two-year associate’s degree or an advanced four-year bachelor’s, all veterinary technicians and technologists follow the same procedures to become credentialed in their respective state.
Types Of Degrees Available For Veterinary Technicians
Associate and bachelor’s degrees in veterinary technology are the most common levels of education for veterinary technicians. Graduate degrees in veterinary technology are not commonly offered, but master’s degrees are available in fields such as wildlife management, aquatic animal medicine, and zoology.
In this article, we will focus on Associate and Bachelor’s degrees in Veterinary Technology.
| Degree | Duration | Admission Requirements |
| AAS – Associate of applied Sciences/ AS- Associate of science | 2-3 years | Highschool graduate with 3.0 GPA |
| BAS – Bachelor of applied sciences/ BS- Bachelor of science | 4 years | High school chemistry, biology, and algebra courses with a grade of C- or higher |
The best veterinary technician schools are accredited by the AVMA and have good reputations within the field. Here are some of the cheapest on campus and online veterinary technology degrees.
Cheapest On Campus Associate Degrees in Veterinary Technology
#1. Dallas College
Program: Veterinary Technology A.A.S.
Delivery: On-Campus
Tuition: $79 per credit hour (resident); $200 per credit hour (out-of-state/out-of-country residents)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 81% students receiving aid.
The purpose of this program is to address the demand for graduate veterinary technicians, as identified by the American Veterinary Medical Association. These professionals typically work as assistants to veterinarians in private practices, perform research in biology, or support the needs of allied health industries.
#2. Austin Community College
Program: A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: On Campus
Tuition: $85 per credit (in-state); $353 per credit (out of state)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 61% students receiving aid.
Austin Community College’s Veterinary Technology Program provides students with hands-on experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, bunnies, and cattle. In this program, students gain training in surgeries, dental procedures, radiology, and treatment plans.
#3. Apex College of Veterinary Technology
Program: A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: On Campus
Tuition: $210/credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA
Financial Aid: Not available
Apex College of Veterinary Technology offers a Veterinary Technology program that is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Veterinary Technician. This 2-year program includes a comprehensive progression of courses that prepare graduates to perform the technical work required for an Associate of Applied Science degree in Veterinary Technology.
#4. Baker College
Program: A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: On Campus
Tuition: $435 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, CVTEA, Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial Aid: Available, with 86% students receiving aid.
Baker College offers an associate degree program in veterinary technology that can help students launch a rewarding career in this field. The program features classes taught by experienced veterinary professionals who are well-versed in the latest techniques and tools used in the industry.
#5. Kent State University- Trumbull
Program: A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: On campus
Tuition: $559.00 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial Aid: Available, with 94% students receiving aid.
The AAS in Veterinary Technology program at Ross College is designed to prepare graduates for a career in the field by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to provide clinical care for a variety of domestic animals.
Cheapest On Campus Bachelor’s Degrees In Veterinary Technology
#1. Pennsylvania Western University
Program: B.S Veterinary Technology
Delivery: On Campus
Tuition: $328 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by
Financial Aid: Available, with 90% students receiving aid.
The veterinary technology bachelor’s degree at PennWest California provides you with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to start a career as a “vet tech” with specialized training in areas such as small or large animal care, laboratory animal management, or shelter medicine.
#2. Morehead State University
Program: B.S Veterinary Technology
Delivery: On Campus
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by
Financial Aid: Available, with 99% students receiving aid.
Veterinary technology students at Morehead State University have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the Derrickson Agricultural Complex, a 325-acre farm that serves as a learning laboratory. The farm features both livestock and equine operations, as well as a small and large animal hospital, providing students with a range of real-world experiences that go beyond traditional classroom instruction.
Cheapest Online Associate Degrees in Veterinary Technology
#1. St. Petersburg College
Program: A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: Online or on campus
Tuition: $111.75 per credit hour (residents); $386.90 per credit (non-resident)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 75% students receiving aid.
SPC’s Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology degree provides students with a strong foundation for success in the field. The program includes classes held on campus in our new $11 million Veterinary Technology facility, which features 32,000 square feet of classrooms, labs, surgery suites, and x-ray rooms. By studying at this state-of-the-art facility, students can gain hands-on experience and the skills needed to excel in their careers.
#2. San Juan College
Program: A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $178/credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial Aid: Available, with 92% students receiving aid.
San Juan College’s veterinary technology program is designed to prepare students for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam), which is required to become a credentialed veterinary technician. The program’s quality instruction and dedicated faculty help ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the exam and have a strong chance of success, with an 86.8% pass rate for the 2018-2021 period.
#3. Northern Virginia Community College
Program: AAS. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: Online or On campus
Tuition: $185.5 per credit hour (resident); $388.25 per credit hour (out of state)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 60% students receiving aid.
The Veterinary Technology AAS program at NVCC is designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful veterinary technicians. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including both practical and theoretical coursework, to prepare students for careers in various animal healthcare settings such as veterinary hospitals, research labs, and diagnostic labs.
#4. Ashworth College
Program: Veterinary Technician AAS
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $483 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Accreditation by Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Financial Aid: Available
Ashworth College offers an online AVMA-accredited Associate Degree Program in Veterinary Technology, which is designed to prepare students for a career as a certified, licensed, or registered veterinary technician. This self-paced program spans four semesters and includes both general education and career-focused courses that are essential for success on the job and for passing the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam).
#5. Medaille University
Program: A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology.
Delivery: Online or evening and weekend classes on campus
Tuition: $500 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Financial Aid: Available, with 99% students receiving aid.
Medaille University offers an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology program that is perfect for students who have a love for animals and a desire to work in the field, but have limited availability to attend a full-time program due to work or family responsibilities. The program is available online or as an accelerated evening and weekend program at the Rochester campus.
Cheapest Online Bachelor’s Degrees In Veterinary Technology
#1. St. Petersburg College
Program: B.A.S Veterinary Technology
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $111.75 per credit hour (residents); $386.90 per credit (non-resident)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, CVTEA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 75% students receiving aid.
SPC’s Veterinary Technology BAS degree program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials to advance their careers and become leaders in their profession. The curriculum includes advanced training in various areas, such as animal anesthesia, dental hygiene, and emergency and critical care.
#2. Appalachian State University
Program: B.S Veterinary Technician
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $176.75 per credit hour (resident); $843.58 per credit hour (non-resident)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by SACSCOC
Financial Aid: Available, with 68% students receiving aid.
App State’s four-year online BS in Veterinary Technology was developed in partnership with Banfield Pet Hospital, a leading provider of preventive veterinary care in the United States and a member of the Mars Veterinary Health group of practices. This program is designed to benefit veterinary professionals, animals, and the broader industry.
#3. University of Missouri
Program: B.S Veterinary Technology
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $335.80 per credit hour (resident); $1,014.70 per credit hour (Non Resident)
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission
Financial Aid: Available, with 93% students receiving aid.
The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) is the first College of Veterinary Medicine to offer a fully online and asynchronous bachelor’s completion program in veterinary technology. This program offers students the opportunity to explore multiple veterinary specialties, engage in research, and consider various career paths.
#4. New England Institute Of Technology
Program: B.S Veterinary Technician
Delivery: Online
Tuition: $360 per credit hour
Accreditation: Programmatic accreditation by AVMA, Regional accreditation by
Financial Aid: Available, with 91% students receiving aid.
This online veterinary technician program is designed for students who have already earned an associate degree and want to further their education by earning a bachelor’s degree. Students can choose to complete their bachelor’s degree full-time after obtaining their associate degree or part-time while working in veterinary practices.
What Can You Do With A Veterinary Technician Degree
A degree in veterinary technology can open up a variety of career opportunities in the field of animal care. Some common job titles for individuals with a veterinary technician degree include:
- Veterinary Technician: Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians in a variety of tasks, such as administering medications, collecting and analyzing laboratory samples, and assisting with surgeries.
- Veterinary Assistant: Veterinary assistants often work alongside veterinary technicians, providing basic care for animals and assisting with administrative tasks in a veterinary clinic or hospital.
- Animal Care Technician: Animal care technicians may work in a variety of settings, including animal shelters, kennels, and pet stores. They are responsible for providing basic care for animals, such as feeding, grooming, and cleaning.
- Research Technician: Research technicians may work in a laboratory setting, assisting with the development and testing of new veterinary medications and treatments.
A degree in veterinary technology can also provide a foundation for further education and advancement in the field, such as pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in veterinary technology or a related field.
What Is The Salary For A Veterinary Technician
The salary for veterinary technicians can vary depending on a number of factors, including location, education level, experience, and specialty. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for veterinary technicians was $36,850 as of 2021. The lowest 10% earned less than $28,370, while the highest 10% earned more than $48,100.
Salaries for veterinary technicians may be higher in certain regions of the country or in industries such as research or pharmaceutical sales. Experience and education can also impact salary, with technicians who have completed a bachelor’s degree or have several years of experience generally earning higher salaries. Veterinary technicians who specialize in a particular area, such as dentistry or surgery, may also have higher salaries.
Is A Career As A Veterinary Technician Worth It?
A career as a veterinary technician can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice for individuals who are passionate about animal care and have a strong desire to help animals and their owners.
The field of veterinary technology is growing rapidly, creating nearly 15,500 new jobs each year. In addition to this job security, many technicians also have the opportunity for career advancement within their chosen profession.
Many individuals find great personal satisfaction in helping animals and making a difference in their lives. A career as a veterinary technician can be a rewarding way to make a positive impact on the world.
That being said, a career as a veterinary technician can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Veterinary technicians may work long hours, including evenings and weekends, and they may be exposed to illness and injury on the job. It is important to carefully consider the demands of the profession before deciding if it is the right career path for you.
