Choosing the right college, university, or technical school can be challenging for any student; however, students interested in veterinary medicine may find it even more difficult. Finding the best veterinary technology school is similar to finding any other school. The main difference, and often the biggest challenge, is that there aren’t nearly as many veterinary technician programs as there are, say, in education or information technology.
Veterinary technicians look after all kinds of animals. It’s a demanding job, but one that pays off handsomely. Not to be confused with a veterinary assistant, the vet tech functions more like a nurse, assisting the veterinarian with animal tests, diagnostic evaluations, and even medical procedures. As a result, the technician must have a vet tech certification or a vet tech degree.
A person interested in becoming a veterinarian technician should begin their education as soon as possible taking as many biology, science, and math courses as possible in high school. This could be very useful in veterinary tech school, as it will provide the student with the fundamental skills needed to complete the coursework for either a two-year or four-year veterinary degree. Aside from a degree, the technician may be required to qualify for and obtain certification from their local or state government.
The first thing to look for in a veterinary technician school is accreditation. The American Veterinary Medical Association should accredit vet technology programs in the United States (AVMA). It should also include a combination of clinical and laboratory fundamentals that include the use of live animals. Students will benefit greatly from an education that meets these criteria as they navigate the job market after graduation and take the appropriate credentialing exam to become a registered vet tech.
A high school career counselor may be able to assist the student in selecting a veterinary technician school that meets their needs. If that resource isn’t available, a simple internet search will turn up a slew of schools that offer veterinary technician programs. Veterinary tech school, veterinary tech university, and vet tech college are examples of terms to use. Then it’s just a matter of looking over the school’s statistics, confirming that it’s accredited, and enrolling.
Veterinary technology is a rewarding and challenging field that allows those who care about animals to help them. It is critical to find a good veterinary technician school that is properly accredited, as well as a school that best meets the student’s needs.