Veterinary Programs

Veterinary Assistant

Vet assistant programs offer a pathway into the veterinary services industry for animal lovers. These programs, available online and on-campus, typically last 6 to 9 months and include internships.

Costs vary, with financial aid often available. Curriculum covers small animal nursing, diagnostic imaging, and more. Graduates can take the Approved Veterinary Assistant exam and pursue careers in private practices, hospitals, or research labs, with an average salary around $31K.

The field is growing, with ample opportunities for specialization and career advancement. Professional organizations like NAVTA offer support and resources for vet assistants. Gain practical experience through internships, volunteer work, and networking.

Veterinary Technician

Individuals passionate about animals can pursue a fulfilling career as a veterinary technician (vet tech), assisting veterinarians in caring for animals and addressing owners’ concerns. Accredited vet tech programs offer a blend of online coursework and hands-on clinical training.

Costs for associate degree programs typically range from $7500 to $8000, with options for fast-track completion in about 3 years.

Curriculum covers anatomy, clinical pathology, surgical assisting, and preparation for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Graduates can expect an average annual salary of $37,000, with opportunities for advancement into specialized roles or managerial positions.

Continuing education and specialization are encouraged, with certifications available in areas like anesthesia, dentistry, and emergency care. Overall, dedication and a love for animals are essential for success in this rewarding yet challenging profession.

Vet Practice Manager

Vet Practice Manager training equips you with essential business skills to run a veterinary office efficiently, combining a love for animals with business acumen. The curriculum covers veterinary office management, Microsoft Office proficiency, bookkeeping with QuickBooks, and veterinary assistant duties. Programs prepare students for certifications such as QuickBooks Certified User and Microsoft Excel and Word exams, leading to roles like veterinary hospital manager or team lead. Courses typically take up to 18 months and cost around $4,000, with salaries ranging from $60K to $100K, and potentially up to $150K with experience. Additional certification through the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association is available for experienced managers.

Overview of Veterinary Industry Programs

With a career in veterinary services, you can make a positive impact on the lives of animals and those that care for them. This fulfilling occupation involves caring for all kinds of animals in different environments. Train as a vet assistant to work directly with animals during routine well visits, or consider a veterinary tech position to care for injuries or diagnose illnesses in pets or exotic animals.

Requirements

To work in the veterinary field, prospects need at least a high school diploma.

Veterinary assistants have few educational requirements beyond that. They primarily learn the job through on-site training and internships.

A vet tech spends about two years completing an associate degree at a technical school. Afterward, they must take an exam to become registered, licensed and certified.

Career Outlook

With a high job growth rate and constant need for animal caretakers, veterinary services offer many work opportunities. Veterinary jobs exist all over the United States, so candidates can find work nationwide.

Vet techs earn an average hourly wage of $17 while veterinary assistants make closer to $14 an hour.

Both occupations work together at research labs, clinics and animal hospitals.

Common Tasks

Veterinary assistants work under the supervision of a veterinarian. They ensure overall care for animals during well visits by bathing, feeding and exercising them plus keeping exam rooms and tools clean. Vet techs have a license to handle other aspects of care. Some tasks include performing x-rays, taking blood samples, giving vaccines and prepping animals for surgery.

Trade Schools with Vet Services Programs

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