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How much schooling is needed to be a veteinary tech?

I am in 11th grade and want to know the details to see if I should choose this career.

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Doc’s Answer

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN
Haylee the minimum education requirement to become a veterinary technician is a two-year associate's degree in veterinary technology, animal sciences or a related field. Check with the veterinary state board of your state to see which programs are accredited in your area. Completing a program that is accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities is the best way to ensure that the degree you pursue is valid a career as a vet tech. Most accredited veterinary technology programs will consist of 240 hours of on-site practicum and a minimum of 60 credit hours.

In addition to receiving your associate's degree in veterinary technology, most states require veterinary technicians to become certified by taking a credentialing exam. The most common exam used is the Veterinary Technician National Exam which is offered through the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. This test is typically taken on a computer and is three hours long and includes 170 multiple-choice questions. Subjects covered on the Veterinary Technician National Exam include anesthesia, dentistry, surgical nursing, pharmacology, diagnostic imaging and emergency medicine among others.

The average Veterinary Technician salary in California is $43,442 as of February 26, 2024, but the range typically falls between $36,561 and $51,617. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

VETERINARY TECHNOLOGISTS
To become a veterinary technologist, you must attain a 4-year bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. When looking for a Bachelor’s degree, make sure that the program is accredited through the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This accreditation is the highest standard of achievement for veterinary medical education. AVMA list all school by states. Most program’s curriculum focuses on business and science. This can include but is not limited to coursework such as business management, chemistry, communication, lab instruments, laboratory procedures, mathematics, microbiology, nutrition, parasitology, pharmacology, physiology, radiology and surgical.

You must also pass a credentialing exam and become licensed, registered, or certified depending on the state to which they are employed. In order for you to become certified, you must acquire work experience in a laboratory animal facility and pass the AALAS (American Association for Laboratory Animal Science) examination. Veterinary technologists need strong problem-solving skills, manual dexterity, communication skills, and compassion towards animals.

The average Veterinary Technologist salary in California is $59,565 as of February 26, 2024, but the range typically falls between $54,961 and $71,829. This is 19% higher (+$9,464) than the average veterinary technologist salary in the United States. In addition, they earn an average bonus of $888. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.

VETERINARY TECHNICIAN VS
VETERINARY TECHNOLOGISTS
Veterinary technologists are professionals who can perform work in both animal care facilities and research environments. Technologists commonly perform similar duties to veterinary technicians but are usually also eligible for work in a laboratory setting. Therefore, while veterinary technologists working in animal clinics may serve in a nursing capacity alongside a licensed veterinarian, they can also perform tests alongside scientists or researchers.

Hope this was helpful Haylee
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Pamela’s Answer

Hi Haylee!
To become a veterinary technician, you typically need to complete a two-year associate degree program in veterinary technology. Some schools may offer a four-year bachelor's degree program in veterinary technology as well. After completing your education, you may also need to pass a credentialing exam to become a certified veterinary technician (CVT) or registered veterinary technician (RVT), depending on your state's requirements.

It's important to research the specific requirements in your state and consider factors such as job outlook, salary potential, and work environment to determine if a career as a veterinary technician is right for you. Good luck with your decision-making process!

Haylee! I will be praying 🙏🏾with you about your career and God's Plan purpose and decision-making process!!
Great Success!
-Pamela Knight
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Heather’s Answer

Veterinary Technician schooling is a 1-2 year diploma program. Typically a hybrid of online and in person hands on experience. Good luck, animals are fun to care for!
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