Vet Tech Program Overview
To become a member of a veterinary healthcare team, you need a solid academic foundation — from veterinary medicine and animal anatomy to pharmacology and diagnostic procedures. The Associate of Science (AS) in Veterinary Technology degree program at New England Institute of Technology (NEIT) provides the laboratory and clinical experiences to equip you with the necessary skills to thrive as an entry-level veterinary technician.
Throughout the vet tech associate degree program curriculum, you gain exposure to veterinary concepts and models of appropriate professional and ethical conduct. Planned laboratory and clinical practice experiences expand your knowledge and lead to proficiency in essential tasks and abilities.
With critical thinking, managerial, and clinical professional skills, you learn to successfully blend the science and art of providing professional support to veterinarians and caring for various animals with unique needs and illnesses.
Program Highlights
- Pathway toward becoming a vet tech
- Accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
- Graduate in as few as 18 months
- Continue to pursue your bachelor’s online through our 2+2 program
NEIT Prepares You to Become a Veterinary Technician Through:
Laboratory Experience
Laboratory work fosters critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, exposing students to techniques, technology, and methodology. Through these experiences, students become familiar with the state-of-the-art equipment they’ll use in their careers. Our labs are small, with eight to 10 students per laboratory course, allowing ample opportunity to build a deeper understanding while collaborating with peers.
Hands-on Practicum
Hands-on practicum allows our students to bridge the gap between theory and practice by applying what they have learned in the classroom to actual veterinary procedures. Through a cooperative effort between the student, faculty, and a private veterinary hospital, clinic, zoo, or biomedical research facility, students complete a minimum of 240 contact hours and develop skills in animal handling, administering medication, performing diagnostic tests, and more.
Mastery of Didactic Skills
While first-hand experience is crucial in veterinary technology, it should be complemented by a solid understanding of theory and best practices. The vet tech program at NEIT follows the American Veterinary Medical Association requirements for skill acquisition, ensuring that students enter the workforce equipped for every facet of their roles. Students gain proficiency in hospital procedures, client communications, pharmacy and pharmacology, nursing small and large animals, and more.
Vet Tech Program Faculty
Our veterinary technology program faculty bring a wealth of knowledge, practical expertise, and a commitment to excellence in teaching and mentorship. They foster a supportive learning environment where students can ask questions and explore new ideas. With backgrounds in clinical practice, research, and academia, they lead and inspire our students in lectures and the lab.
Veterinary Technology Careers
NEIT graduates pursue careers in private veterinary practices, biomedical research, academia, and other health-related fields. As veterinary technologists, they perform the following responsibilities:
- Administering vaccines and medications
- Anesthesiology
- Caring for hospitalized patients
- Client education
- Collecting specimens
- Dental prophylaxis
- Office/hospital management
- Performing clinical laboratory procedures
- Physical examination and patient history
- Radiology
- Surgical assisting
Veterinary technicians cannot diagnose, prescribe, or perform surgery. Students interested in these responsibilities may consider advanced training at a veterinary medicine school.
Graduates of our AVMA-accredited vet tech associate degree program acquire the skill set to pursue employment opportunities such as:
Animal Care and Service Worker
Veterinary Assistant
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technician Specialist
Admissions
Have questions about the admissions process or want to learn more about our program? Whether you intend to transfer to NEIT or plan on attending right out of high school, our admissions team is happy to help you navigate the process as you take the next step toward your professional goals.
Learn more about admissions at NEIT.
Financial Aid
At New England Institute of Technology, we understand that pursuing an associate degree can be a significant financial investment. That’s why we’re committed to helping students access a variety of financial aid options and scholarships to make their educational goals more attainable — from student loans to scholarships and grants.
Learn more about NEIT financial aid.
Take the Next Step — Apply to the Vet Tech Associate Degree Program at NEIT
In the Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology program, you learn from passionate industry professionals committed to supporting your growth and gain practical experience in modern laboratories and clinical settings. Take the next step and prepare for a rewarding career in veterinary medicine — apply today!
FAQ
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Can I be a vet tech with an associate degree?
Graduates of an associate degree program can find work as a veterinary technician.
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Can vet techs become veterinarians?
The experience gained as a veterinary technician is a great way to prepare for a career as a veterinarian. Individuals must gain a bachelor’s degree and then earn a doctorate in veterinary medicine. This process typically takes around six years.
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Is it worth becoming a vet tech?
Becoming a veterinary technician is a great choice for animal-lovers who want to begin work quickly. The job will also provide important experience to individuals who wish to continue their education to advance in the field.
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What are the benefits of being a vet tech?
Benefits surrounding life as a veterinary technician revolve around the unique work environment, opportunities for growth, and the ability to enter the workforce quickly.