A lot of people want to know what degree they need in order to become a vet tech. The answer may surprise you – find out here!
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Introduction
In order to become a vet tech, you will need to complete a Veterinary Technician program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). There are many different types of programs that you can choose from, but they all have one common goal: to prepare you for the state licensing exam.
What is a Vet Tech?
A vet tech is a professional who provides supportive medical care to animals under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. Vet techs typically work in private veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and zoos. Some may also work in research laboratories or pharmaceutical companies.
Vet techs must have completed a postsecondary education program in veterinary technology. These programs typically take 2-4 years to complete and result in an associate’s degree or certificate. Some vet techs may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology, which can take an additional 2-4 years.
What Does a Vet Tech Do?
Vet techs are responsible for a variety of tasks relating to animal care and treatment. They may work in private practices, zoos, shelters, or other animal care facilities. In addition to providing direct patient care, they may also assist veterinarians in diagnostic procedures, administer vaccinations and medications, take X-rays, prepare animals and equipment for surgery, and provide postoperative care.
The majority of vet techs have an associate degree from an accredited program, although some technicians may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Associate degree programs typically take two years to complete and cover topics such as animal anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, nutrition, and zoo management. After completing an accredited program, vet techs must pass a state-administered exam in order to become licensed or certified in most states.
What Education is Needed to Become a Vet Tech?
In order to become a licensed vet tech, you will need to earn an Associate’s degree in veterinary technology from an accredited college or university. There are currently more than 200 AVMA accredited Veterinary Technician programs across the United States. Once you have graduated from an AVMA accredited program, you will then need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) in order to become certified and licensed in your state.
How to Become a Vet Tech
In order to become a vet tech, you will need to complete a two-year Associate’s degree in veterinary technology from an accredited college or university. You will also need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Some states may require you to pass a state-specific exam as well. Once you have passed all required exams, you will be able to apply for licensure in your state.
The Future of Vet Techs
Although a lot of people assume that a degree is not necessary to become a vet tech, the future of the profession may be changing that. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is considering making accreditation of vet tech programs mandatory, which would mean that only graduates of accredited programs would be able to take the credentialing exam to become certified vet techs.
