Veterinary Technician Training and Certification
Choose the vet tech training program that's right for your career.
Choosing a Veterinary Technician Training Program
There are a several different degree options to choose from when you decide to enroll in a veterinary technician training program. Most people enter the veterinary technician profession with an associate's degree. An associate's degree in veterinary technology takes approximately 16-to-24 months to complete, depending on the veterinary tech training program you choose.
Some institutions may offer a 4-year bachelor's degree program. Earning a more advanced degree will often increase your yearly vet tech salary, but it takes longer to earn and to begin working in the field. Some veterinary tech training programs offer distance learning options as well, but hand-on experience is still a very important part of your education.
Things to Consider
There are dozens of schools across the United States that offer degrees and certificate training for veterinary techs. Making a school choice is easy once you narrow down your criteria. Here are some questions to consider when choosing a veterinary technician training program:
- Will it prepare me for the certification or licensure exam?
- Is the veterinary technician school accredited?
- How will I manage my life around my schoolwork or vice versa?
- Does the program include an internship or externship?
Internships and Externships
Hands-on experience is crucial part of a veterinary technician education. Therefore, in order to qualify for accreditation, schools are required to include a period of hands-on clinical experience for all students. This period is called an internship, externship, preceptorship or practicum. Making the most of your clinical experience will reduce the amount of time you need to spend learning on the job.
Education Guide
Veterinary Technician Education
Read about course information and requirements toward your certification.
Certification Information
Learn what you need to do to become a certified veterinary technician.
School Accreditation
Get information about the benefits of attending an accredited vet tech school.
Professional Interview
Read the interview of an experienced veterinary technician and get an inside look at the profession.
Training Information
Find out how to choose the right education program and internship.
Career Guide
Career Options
Discover some of your options when you are choosing a veterinary technician career.
Job Information
Find out the responsibilities of a veterinary technician and the tasks they perform.
Veterinary Tech Specialties
Check out some of the specialties a veterinary technician career offers.
Salary Information
Find information about the earning potential of different veterinary technician jobs.
Veterinary Assistant Career
Learn about getting into the field as a veterinary assistant and the duties they perform.
Resources and Links
Browse a compiled list of vet tech resources to research your certification.