
To become a veterinary technician, you'll need to pursue a formal education in a program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Most veterinary technician programs take two years to complete and include classroom instruction and hands-on training in clinical settings.
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required for admission to these programs, which cover topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and laboratory procedures.
You'll also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships or clinical rotations, which are often included in the program curriculum.
Additional reading: Tcc Veterinary Technician Program
Why Study Veterinary Technology
The job market for veterinary technicians is booming, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 20 percent increase in employment over the next 10 years.
This growth means there will be approximately 15,500 new jobs available each year for vet techs.
At Front Range Community College, you can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Veterinary Technology in just five semesters.
You can also choose to complete a veterinary assistant certificate program in two semesters.
Both programs are offered in the classroom and hybrid format, so you can create a schedule that fits your needs.
Dedicated faculty will help you develop the technical skills and creative thinking you need to succeed in the veterinary field.
With partnerships with 85 veterinary hospitals and facilities, you'll have access to unique internship and animal handling opportunities.
Once you complete your AAS degree, you'll be prepared to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
Passing the VTNE will qualify you to become certified as a veterinary technician in Colorado.
Program Details
The veterinary technician program at Midwest Institute provides extensive hands-on training, including working with live animals and gaining field experience. This comprehensive education prepares students for a successful and rewarding career in the field.
Students can expect to learn a range of skills, including assisting with examinations, treatment, surgery, and laboratory testing for both large and small animals. They'll also learn administrative functions, such as collecting and recording patients' case histories.
In addition to the hands-on training, graduates of the program will be able to perform various tasks on the job, including observing animal behavior and condition, providing nursing care, and administering medications. They'll also be able to collect laboratory samples, perform laboratory tests, and take and develop X-rays.
Here are some specific tasks that graduates of the program can expect to perform:
- Observe the behavior and condition of animals
- Provide nursing care or emergency first aid to recovering or injured animals
- Administer anesthesia to animals and monitor their responses
- Collect laboratory samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, for testing
- Perform laboratory tests, including urinalyses and blood counts
- Take and develop X-rays
- Prepare animals and instruments for surgery
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments prescribed by a veterinarian
- Collect and record patients' case histories
The program at Northampton Community College (NCC) and LCCC campuses has a strong track record, with a three-year average pass rate of 70% on the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Examination).
Why Study Tech at Front Range CC?
At Front Range Community College, you can earn a degree or certificate in veterinary technology in just a few semesters. The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Veterinary Technology can be completed in five semesters, while the veterinary assistant certificate program takes only two semesters.
The job prospects for veterinary technicians are excellent, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 20 percent increase in employment over the next 10 years. This translates to approximately 15,500 new jobs for vet techs each year.

You'll have the opportunity to practice your technical skills and develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills under the guidance of dedicated faculty. With partnerships with 85 veterinary hospitals and facilities, you'll gain unique internship and animal handling experiences.
Once you complete the AAS degree in veterinary technology, you'll be prepared to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) and become certified as a veterinary technician in Colorado.
Broaden your view: Veterinary Technician Skills
AAS in Technology
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology is a full-time degree program that trains you in veterinary health and handling of various animals.
You'll study topics like anatomy and physiology, radiology, parasitology, medical and surgical nursing, anesthesia, and pharmacology. This program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technical Education and Activities.
Once you've completed this program, you can take the national exam to become a credentialed veterinary technician. After passing the exam, you'll be well on your way to a career as a veterinary technician.
If this caught your attention, see: Pima Medical Institute Veterinary Technician

FRCC's veterinary technician degree program has partnerships with 85 veterinary hospitals and facilities, providing you with unique internship and animal handling opportunities. This is a huge advantage when it comes to gaining practical experience.
The program can be completed in five semesters, and it's offered in the classroom and hybrid format. This flexibility allows you to create a schedule that fits your needs.
Here are the typical career options available to AAS in Veterinary Technology graduates:
- Veterinary technicians
- Positions in animal hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research laboratories, animal health industry, zoological parks, and emergency/specialty clinics
Keep in mind that employment among veterinary technicians is projected to increase by 20 percent over the next 10 years, with approximately 15,500 new jobs for vet techs each year.
Technician Program
The Veterinary Technician Program is designed to equip students with the theoretical and technical skills essential for a wide-range of career options in animal health and management. This program prepares students for careers as veterinary technicians and for positions in animal hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, research laboratories, animal health industry, zoological parks, and emergency/specialty clinics.
Worth a look: Pima Veterinary Technician Program

Students can apply to the program following the guidelines of the Allied Health competitive admission process. The program is offered at Georgetown and Stanton locations.
The program focuses on the development of laboratory testing techniques, clinical assisting procedures, humane animal care and nursing skills, and hospital management practices. In addition to course work and laboratory experience, students are required to complete one supervised externship at a variety of animal care facilities.
The program has a high pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), with a three-year average pass rate of 70%. This is a great indicator of the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the exam.
Here are some of the key skills that students will learn in the program:
- Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology
- Large Animal Clinical Procedure
- Small Animal Clinical Procedure
- Veterinary Surgical and Nursing and Anesthesia
- Lab Animal Science and Exotics
- Veterinary Radiology
Students will also have the opportunity to participate in a summer externship experience, where they can practice their clinical skills at veterinary hospitals.
Careers & Outcomes
A career as a veterinary technician can be incredibly rewarding, offering a wide range of job opportunities in various settings. You can work in a veterinary clinic, hospital, research laboratory, animal control facility, humane society, zoo, aquarium, biomedical facility, diagnostic laboratory, wildlife facility, or even on a ranch or farm.
Consider reading: Laboratory Procedures for Veterinary Technicians
Employment of veterinary technologists and technicians is projected to grow 19 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to veterinarians increasingly relying on technicians and technologists for general care and lab work on household pets.
To become a veterinary technician, you'll need to complete an associate degree program, such as the one offered by Midwest Institute in Missouri. This program will provide you with the training required to work in any of the following settings:
- Veterinary clinic
- Veterinary hospital
- Research laboratory
- Animal control facility
- Humane society or animal shelter
- Zoo or aquarium
- Biomedical facility
- Diagnostic laboratory
- Wildlife facility
- Ranch or farm
Austin Community College's Veterinary Technology Program is another excellent option, offering hands-on experience with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, bunnies, cattle, and more. You'll learn through training in surgeries, dental procedures, radiology, and treatment plans.
If you're interested in specializing in a particular area, such as emergency and critical care, internal medicine, wildlife refuge, zoological medicine, or research, you can do so after completing your associate degree.
A fresh viewpoint: Veterinary Medicine
Certification and Licensing
Some states require licensure or certification to practice as a veterinary technician, and you'll need to check if your state is on the list. States that require the Technician National Exam (VTNE) or the Certificated Veterinary Technician (CVT) include Alabama, California, and Georgia, among others.
If you live in a state that doesn't require the VTNE or CVT, you may still need to complete additional on-the-job training to practice as a veterinary technician. Alaska and Arizona are examples of states that don't require graduates to pass either exam.
Colorado is a bit different, requiring either that you pass the VTNE or complete 6,500 hours of verified work experience. It's essential to check with the Licensing Board in your state for specific requirements.
You can view more information on the veterinary technician program through the Midwest Institute Virtual Library, or contact an admissions counselor for assistance.
You might enjoy: Veterinary Technician Practice Test
Admission and Requirements
If you're interested in becoming a veterinary technician, you'll need to meet the admission requirements for a program. Admission to a vet tech program typically involves a sincere interest in the field and a competitive application process.
Here's an interesting read: Mcc Veterinary Technician Program
To apply, you'll need to review the program's admissions policy, which outlines the full criteria for acceptance. This may include transfer credits, motivation, and commitment to the field. You can find more information on the admissions policy page.
The application process for vet tech programs usually takes place from September 1 to March 15 for fall admission. Meeting the minimum requirements doesn't guarantee admission, so it's essential to be one of the most qualified applicants. To apply, you'll need to complete an online application for admission to the college, as well as a veterinary technician application.
The application process can be competitive, but with the right preparation and motivation, you can increase your chances of getting accepted into a vet tech program.
Vet Tech Program Admission
To get into the Vet Tech Program, Midwest Institute looks for students with a genuine interest in the field. They consider factors like your motivation and commitment.
To learn more about the admissions process, including transfer credits, visit the Admissions Policy page.
The program is designed to help you develop knowledge in animal care, life processes, laboratory procedures, and veterinary nursing. Graduates are prepared to take the veterinary technician national board examination.
The program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (AVMA CVTEA).
Classes are held on two campuses, Northampton Community College (NCC) and LCCC, with a clinical science laboratory on NCC's campus and a veterinary teaching facility on LCCC's campus.
The program takes two full years to complete, with classes offered during the day.
You might like: Veterinary Technician Online Classes
Getting Vet Tech Degree at Midwest Institute
Getting a vet tech degree at Midwest Institute is a great choice, with a program that provides extensive hands-on training and comprehensive field experience. You'll have the opportunity to work with live animals and develop the skills you need to succeed in the field.
The program is designed to teach you multiple skills in one educational environment, preparing you for a rewarding and successful career as a veterinary technician. You'll learn to assist with examinations, treatment, surgery, and laboratory testing for both large and small animals.
Here are some of the key skills you'll learn in the program:
- Observe the behavior and condition of animals
- Provide nursing care or emergency first aid to recovering or injured animals
- Administer anesthesia to animals and monitor their responses
- Collect laboratory samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, for testing
- Perform laboratory tests, including urinalyses and blood counts
- Take and develop X-rays
- Prepare animals and instruments for surgery
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments prescribed by a veterinarian
- Collect and record patients' case histories
The program also helps you develop the self-confidence and motivation you need to succeed in this field. With the right skills and training, you'll be well-prepared to take on a variety of tasks and responsibilities in a veterinary setting.
Ready to Apply
If you're ready to apply for the Veterinary Technician program, you'll need to submit your application between September 1 and March 15 for the upcoming fall admission.
Admission into the program is competitive, so meeting the minimum requirements doesn't guarantee admission. Only the most qualified applicants will be interviewed.
To apply, you'll need to complete an online application for admission to LCCC, as well as a veterinary technician application. You can find more information on the application process on the AAVSB website.
The application deadline is March 15, so be sure to submit your application well before then to ensure you're considered for admission.
Here's a quick rundown of the application requirements:
- Complete an online application for admission to LCCC
- Submit a veterinary technician application
Remember, admission into the Veterinary Technician program is competitive, so make sure your application is complete and accurate to increase your chances of being accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a vet tech in KY?
In Kentucky, you can become a vet tech in as little as 2 years with the right training. Our Vet Tech program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this rewarding career.
How do I become a vet tech in WV?
To become a vet tech in WV, you'll need a high school diploma or GED with specific scores and pass the Veterinary Technicians National Exam and WV State Exam.
Featured Images: pexels.com


