What Degree Do You Need to Become a Vet Tech?

So, you want to be a vet tech? That’s great! But what degree do you need to become a vet tech? Here’s a look at the education you’ll need to pursue a career in veterinary technology.

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Introduction

Becoming a vet tech is a popular choice for those who want to work with animals, but don’t have the time or money to become a veterinarian. Vet techs are highly trained professionals who work alongside veterinarians to provide medical care for animals.

In order to become a vet tech, you will need to complete a rigorous educational program. Most programs take two to four years to complete and result in an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. Once you have completed your educational requirements, you will need to pass a national exam in order to become certified.

What is a Vet Tech?

A vet tech is a professional who assists veterinarians in providing medical care to animals. Vet techs typically have an associate’s degree or certificate in veterinary technology. Some vet techs may also choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology or a related field.

What Does a Vet Tech Do?

Vet techs, or veterinary technicians, are medical professionals who support veterinarians in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems. They typically work in private clinics or animal hospitals and may specialize in a particular area of veterinary medicine, such as dentistry, surgery, or nutrition.

Vet techs typically need to complete a two-year associate’s degree in veterinary technology from an accredited program. Some programs also offer certification, which may be required by some employers. In addition to completing coursework, vet techs must also pass a state-administered exam to earn their license.

What Education is Required to Become a Vet Tech?

In order to become a licensed veterinary technician, you will need to complete a two-year accredited veterinary technology program and pass a state licensing exam. Some states may also require you to pass a national licensing exam.

Most accredited veterinary technology programs are offered at community colleges, technical colleges, and some four-year colleges and universities. These programs typically take two years to complete and result in an Associate’s degree in Veterinary Technology. Some programs may offer a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology, but these are less common.

There are many different specialties within the veterinary technology field, so you may want to consider completing a specialized program if there is a particular area that interests you. For example, some programs offer concentrations in animal behavior, anesthesia, clinical practice, dentistry, equine science, critical care, nutrition, management, pharmacy, radiology, surgery, and zoological medicine.

What are the Different Types of Vet Tech Programs?

There are several types of vet tech programs available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The type of program you choose will largely depend on your schedule, budget, and career goals.

The most popular type of program is the associate’s degree, which takes two years to complete. These programs are generally more affordable than bachelor’s or master’s degree programs, and they can be completed in a shorter time frame. However, associate’s degree programs may not offer the same level of job opportunities as more advanced programs.

Bachelor’s degree programs in vet tech typically take four years to complete and offer more job opportunities than associate’s degree programs. These programs also tend to be more expensive than associate’s degree programs.

Master’s degree programs in vet tech are the most advanced type of program available. These programs typically take two years to complete and offer the best job prospects of any type of vet tech program. However, they are also the most expensive type of program to attend.

What is the Difference Between a Vet Tech and a Veterinary Assistant?

The main difference between a vet tech and a veterinary assistant is that vet techs have more training and education. Vet techs must complete a two-year associate’s degree program, while veterinary assistants only need to complete a short certificate or diploma program. Vet techs are also licensed in most states, while veterinary assistants are not.

What are the Certification and Licensing Requirements for Vet Techs?

Most states require that you pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) before you can earn your license or certification. Some states may have additional requirements, such as passing a state-specific exam.

You can become certified through professional organizations such as the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA). NAVTA offers two different certification programs: the Associate Certified Veterinary Technician (ACVT) for entry-level techs and the Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) for those with more experience.

You’ll need to complete an accredited veterinary technology program to qualify for the ACVT or RVT exams. These programs typically take two years to complete and offer both classroom and clinical instruction.

How Much Does a Vet Tech Make?

Average Salary for a Veterinary Technician
The average annual salary for a veterinary technician in the United States is $32,490, which is $15.69 per hour. The median salary is $30,620. Salaries range from $21,680 to $48,610.

How Much Does a Vet Tech Make an Hour?
The average hourly wage for a veterinary technician in the United States is $15.69, which is $32,490 per year. The median hourly wage is $14.81. Salaries range from $10.53 to $23.50.

What are the Job Prospects for Vet Techs?

The job outlook for vet techs is good. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of vet techs will grow 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for vet techs will be driven by the increasing number of pet owners and the need to provide more advanced medical care for animals.

Conclusion

To become a vet tech, you will need to complete a two-year Associate’s degree in veterinary technology from an accredited school. Many states also require licensure or certification. Upon completion of your degree and licensure, you will be able to work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.