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What is a Veterinary Assistant?

A veterinary assistant or veterinarian assistant works in conjunction with veterinarians providing treatment, aid, and care to ill, injured, and recovering animals.  A veterinary assistant works closely with a licensed veterinarian treating animals via specialized care and surgical procedures.  Both veterinarians and veterinary assistants are expected to provide accurate, timely diagnosis and treatment plans on behalf of pets, animals, hospitals, clinics, labs, zoos, and livestock.  Some veterinary assistant will find themselves working in private clinics, animal shelters, or at an animal companion center.

Veterinary assistants will typically work in a veterinary hospital tasked with both technical and administrative duties.  In most animal hospitals, a veterinary assistant will be  responsible for:

  • Patient Intake
  • Preparing Animals for Surgery
  • Collecting Samples
  • Counseling Animal Owners
  • Recording Medical Histories
  • Assisting During Surgery
  • Preparing Equipment for Surgery
  • Providing Postoperative Care

Vet assistants are required to be capable, knowledgeable, courteous, and empathetic.  A veterinary assistant will work with other assistants under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian in an animal hospital or clinical setting.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$26,810

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

79,990

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Veterinary Assistant Schools

Purdue University- Main Campus (West Lafayette, IN) is one of the best public research universities in the country. The university leads on agricultural research, engineering, and environmental studies. The College of Veterinary Medicine offers a Doctoral and a Veterinary Nursing program. The College also manages several undergraduate and post-baccalaureate and post-graduate programs for interested students. The Veterinary Assistant Nursing program awards bachelor’s and associate’s degrees. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination. Students are prepared to take on roles across a variety of settings or pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. 

Acceptance Rate

59.83

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

University of Massachusetts (Amherst, MA) is a public research university that extends its academic programs into five campuses and several satellite campuses. University of Massachusetts-Amherst offers veterinary and animal sciences programs. It grants both undergraduate and graduate degrees. UMass offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Veterinary Technology. The program equips students with basic science and veterinary medicine courses as well as general education. Graduates of this program can assume roles across veterinary medicine or biomedical research.

Acceptance Rate

63.8

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) is a public research university and served as a model for future land grant schools in the United States. It was founded as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, a higher institution that pioneered in teaching scientific agriculture. The College of Veterinary Medicine offers a Veterinary Nursing program, formerly called as the Veterinary Technology Program. Students can choose between earning a Certificate of Completion or pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. These programs provide essential foundational courses,  comprehensive veterinary nursing instructions, and training through clinical laboratory procedures. Students of both programs are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. 

Acceptance Rate

71.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah) is a private university focused on providing undergraduate education. The university is also providing a few master’s and doctoral programs. BYU has satellite campuses in Jerusalem and Salt Lake City. It is managed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university offers a wide-range of academic programs from Agriculture, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Communication, Business, and others. The university also has a wide range of healthcare and medical programs. The university offers Pre Veterinary Preceptorship under the Biology department. It is a course that provides real world training on veterinary medicine under a clinical setting, supplemented with academic assignments.

Acceptance Rate

67.49

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

California State Polytechnic University - Pomona (Pomona, CA) is one of the two "Polytechnic" universities in the California State University System. CPP is known for its project-based approach in learning and learn-by-doing coursework. The polytechnic university offers more than 100 fields of study covering undergraduate majors, graduate programs, and professional or vocational courses. Animal Science is an undergraduate major that provides foundational courses and better hands-on experience than a pre-vet undergraduate track. Students can also customize this program based on their goals. They can choose to pursue private practice, research, public health or business administration.

Acceptance Rate

54.59

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

International Business College (Indianapolis, IN) is a for-profit college that awards diplomas and associate degrees. The Veterinary Technology program provides professional knowledge and hands-on experience to students through an eight-week externship. Vet Tech is an 18-month program that leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree. Graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Passing this exam is one of the requirements before becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician in the state of IN. 

Acceptance Rate

79.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Vet Tech Institute of Houston (Houston, TX) extends its education to six locations across the United States. Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology degree within at least 18 months. A two month externship is also conducted to develop the skills of the students. The program is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA). 

Acceptance Rate

64.86

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

International Business College (Indianapolis, IN) is a for-profit college that awards diplomas and associate degrees. The Vet Tech degree provides professional knowledge and hands-on experience to students through an eight-week externship. Vet Tech is an 18-month program that leads to an Associate of Applied Science degree. Graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Passing this exam is one of the requirements before becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician in the state of IN. 

Acceptance Rate

73.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

Midwest Institute (Fenton, MO) is a career college that serves learners in St. Louis and Fenton. The Institute manages programs that relate to healthcare. It awards an Associate of Occupational Studies degree to future veterinary technicians. The program provides extensive hands-on training and a comprehensive field experience. Students are trained to assume roles across animal and research facilities. 

Acceptance Rate

76.47

Tuition

$14,680 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Stanbridge University (Irvine, CA) private technical college focused on providing education and skills training for both students and adults. Several programs in Stanbridge are delivered through on-campus lectures and training, some are available online through the Stanbridge University Edverum. The Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology program prepares students to be licensed vet techs. The university provides hands-on training using state-of-the-art facilities.

Acceptance Rate

63.33

Tuition

$33,751 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

University of New Hampshire (Durnham, NH) is a public research university. It is organized into 11 schools and colleges offering a long list of academic programs. The Thompson School of Applied Science awards associate degrees in seven academic programs including Applied Animal Science, Forest Technology, and Veterinary Assistant. Students taking veterinary technician are trained to assist veterinarians in providing comprehensive medical care to animal patients. UNH offers transfer credits for students who aim to earn a bachelor’s degree in a four-year university. 

Acceptance Rate

84.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Mississippi State University (Starkville, MS) also known as Mississippi State University for Agriculture and Applied Science is a public university that offers baccalaureate, graduate, and professional degree programs. Some of the popular programs in the university are architecture and veterinary medicine. The university is one of the pioneers in offering a four-year bachelor’s degree program in veterinary medical technology. Students are given the opportunity to gain clinical experiences during their senior year. VMT graduates can assume roles across a variety of clinical and research settings. 

Acceptance Rate

53.86

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Lincoln Memorial University (Harrogate, TN) is a private liberal arts university that offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The College of Veterinary Medicine manages the DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center that provides students with extensive practical experience and educational opportunities. The Veterinary Medical Technology program awards associate and bachelor’s degrees. Students are trained through hands-on experience with animals, preventative medicine, and service to the community. 

Acceptance Rate

49.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Fox College (Bedford Park, IL) is a higher learning institution awarding diplomas and associate degrees. It provides career-focused courses and professional programs. Every program in Fox College is designed to address the needs of the industry and employers. Students can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology degree within at least 18 months. An eight-week externship is also integrated in the program curriculum providing students hand-on training experience. Graduates are eligible to sit down for the  Veterinary Technician National Exam.  

Acceptance Rate

61.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Tuskegee University (Tuskegee, AL) is a private, historically black university that offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. Tuskegee is the only university of its kind that offers the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. The Animal and Veterinary Sciences Program offers five educational options for interested students. Veterinary Assistant is an option that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. After finishing this program, students may apply for the Veterinary Medicine program. 

Acceptance Rate

51.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

University of Nebraska - Lincoln (Lincoln, NE) is a public university notable for its long list of “firsts”. One of UNL’s firsts is its establishment of ecology as an academic discipline. UNL is also recognized in research through the works of its faculty and scholars. UNL students are also actively participating in activities outside campus that highlights their competence, intellect, and skills. The Veterinary Technology program offers three program options: veterinary science, science, and business. Interested students can also be a student employee and gain additional skills and knowledge in veterinary and animal production research, veterinary diagnostic services, and animal care. 

Acceptance Rate

78.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Otterbein University (Westerville, OH) is a private university that primarily caters undergraduate programs. The B.S. in Equine Veterinary Technology is a program that prepares students to be a Registered Vet Tech with an emphasis on horses. The program is delivered in conjunction with the Columbus State Community College. Interested students are required to take clinical experiences at two veterinary medical practices. Students who successfully complete the program will earn an Associate degree from Columbus State and a Bachelor’s degree from Otterbein. 

Acceptance Rate

80.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred (Alfred, NY) also known as Alfred State is a public college that focuses on providing undergraduate education. Veterinary technology is a two-year program leading to an Associate in Applied Science degree. Students are provided with extensive training in the theory and principles as well as hands-on technical, animal, and laboratory experience. Graduates are prepared to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam. 

Acceptance Rate

66.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

TSU or Tarleton State University (Stephenville, TX) is a public university and one of the founding members of the Texas A&M University System. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across seven colleges. Veterinary Technology leads to multiple options for interested students. The university awards a B.A.S. degree, and a Shelter Animal Medicine Certificate. Students who admit to another major can take Vet Tech as a minor. The undergraduate degree program is for those who already earned their associate degree in veterinary technology. The program is designed to enhance their existing skills and knowledge about the area of study. 

Acceptance Rate

55.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

New England Institute of Technology (Warwick, RI) is a private university that offers a range of academic programs for students to choose from. NEIT awards Associate in Science degree in Veterinary Technology. The program is a mixture of classroom instructions and hands-on training preparing students to be entry-level vet techs. Aside from technical skills, students will develop critical thinking and managerial skills. 

Acceptance Rate

63.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Wilson College (Chambersburg, PA) is a private liberal arts college. The college operated as a women’s college for more than 100 years before it became coeducational in 2014. The college is affiliated to  the Presbyterian Church. The college awards bachelor’s degrees in both Veterinary Medical Technology and Veterinary Nursing. Students are provided with both clinical and classroom experience. The Veterinary Nursing program offers three concentrations: veterinary biology, veterinary business management, and equi-assist. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit down for the National Veterinary Technician Examination. 

Acceptance Rate

92.8

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

SUNY College of Technology at Delhi (Delhi, NY) is a public university that manages several academic programs that lead to certificates, associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, or master’s degrees. These programs are organized across five schools: Veterinary and Applied Sciences, Applied Technologies, Business and Hospitality Management, Nursing, and Liberal Arts and Sciences. Veterinary Science Technology awards an Associate in Applied Science program. Students are trained to meet the required technical skills across veterinary and biomedical fields.

Acceptance Rate

72.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

Murray State University (Murray, KY) is a public university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is consistently ranked as one of the best public college/university in the United States. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with Veterinary Technology concentration. The four-year program focuses on diagnostic and research techniques on a variety of animal types. Undergraduates can also take the pre-professional track preparing them to pursue Veterinary Medicine. 

Acceptance Rate

82.39

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

North Dakota State University (Fargo, ND) or the North Dakota State University of Agriculture and Applied Sciences is a public research university that offers a long list of academic and certification programs. Some popular areas of study are agricultural sciences, social sciences, physical sciences, chemistry, and psychology. NDSU offers a four-year Veterinary Technology program. Students can customize the courses they will take based on their academic and professional goals. Undergraduates are trained to meet the technical demands of the profession in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

93.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Siena Heights University (Adrian, MI) is a nonprofit private institution offering a wide range of programs. The school values its Roman Catholic affiliation and it plays an important role in the school’s vision. Some popular programs in SHU are liberal arts and sciences, business and marketing, and public administration and social services. The university offers a pre-veterinary program. Most students who aim to pursue a profession in veterinary medicine often take Biology as an undergraduate major. 

Acceptance Rate

73.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

How to Become a Veterinary Assistant

In order to become a veterinary assistant, a student must follow a series of steps necessary to advance in the field of veterinary medicine. The steps are outlined below to help you quickly navigate the series of items.

Step 1 Research Accredited Vet Schools

Initially, you are tasked to find accredited universities and colleges offering veterinary assistant programs. Researching schools can be a simple as starting with a geographic region or as complex as layering the overall cost of attending with professor tenure and alumni programs. Alternatively, we have created a set of proprietary matching tools to help you quickly aggregate veterinary assistant degree programs. You can assess the school's fit and research the school after requesting admissions information from our portal.

Step 2 Apply for Veterinary School

With your college list in-hand, you will now begin to apply for admissions. Take the time to carefully read all instructions on the application. Go to great lengths to highlight all relevant work experience and volunteer experience you have with animals. Volunteering at an animal shelter or animal clinic shows initiative, discipline and passion that schools look for in prospective students.

Step 3 Attend Veterinary College

After hearing back from your top schools, you will begin to register for classes. Living on-campus will require you to figure out housing, parking, meals, and books before classes start. Online veterinary assistant degrees still come with a transition but not to the extent as moving on campus. After meeting with your academic advisor, you can map our your degree path and courses. A two-year associate's degree will provide you a science-rich window into veterinary medicine in addition to general education classes like sociology, creative writing, and philosophy. On the other hand, a certificate program may be an ideal path for a veterinary assistant depending on your state requirements and employer preference.

Step 4 Graduate, Exams, Certification, & Work

After passing all classes in the veterinary assistant program, you can move to the next phase of the process. Depending on your state, you may be required to pass a standardized examination for veterinary assistants. After meeting all state-specific certification and licensing requirements, you can apply for jobs at licensed veterinary clinics or licensed animal hospitals of your choice. After a few years of valuable work experience, you may choose to earn additional veterinary certificates, DMV, or VMD. Continue to learn, grow, and add relevant skills throughout your career as learning does not stop in school.

Veterinary Assistants Education Requirements

Aprogram in veterinary assistance will provide an individual with the skills and knowledge necessary to work with animals in a clinical environment. A veterinary assistant can obtain a certificate, associates or bachelors degree through various institutions.

The length of the program will vary based on the type of degree pursued, but it will average between one and two years. A veterinary assistant will be responsible for the care of animals, maintaining a sterile environment, and treatment of animals under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Veterinary Assistants Classes

Students enrolled in a veterinary assistant school will learn a variety of sciences related to animal biology and physiology, as well as courses providing instruction and regarding the care and treatment of a variety of animals. Students will work in clinical environments under the supervision of professionals to better understand the tasks and duties of their position and how to perform them.

Depending on the program and its length, the education provided becomes more in depth and allows for a greater number of responsibilities. A veterinary assistant program may include classes in:

  • Animal Restraint
  • Small Animal Nursing
  • Medical Procedures
  • Pharmacology and Phlebotomy
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Bloodborne Pathogen Training
  • Surgical Preparation and Assisting
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • Operations Management & Office Procedures
  • Biology
  • Animal Identification

Difference Between a Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician?

The primary differences between a veterinary assistant and veterinary technician comes down to education requirements and job duties.  A veterinary technician is required to complete an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree and become licensed, certified, and/or registered to practice in their state of residence.

The requirements for vet techs vary by state and must be confirmed which credential is necessary.  A veterinary assistant will often have fewer college credits and requirements placed upon them prior to entering the work force depending the state and employer mandates.

From a job duty perspective, a veterinary assistant will help with a variety of administrative and remedial medical tasks around an office or clinic.  On the other hand, a veterinary technician will handle more complex tasks and jobs from taking x-rays to providing emergency care to injured animals and laboratory procedures to nursing care.

Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment Opportunities for Vet Assistants

Veterinary assisting is expected to grow over the coming years as the need for animal care and the effectiveness of treatment increases. Though a degree is not necessary to become an assistant and much of the training will be on the job, job availability is trending toward those who pursue a degree.

As the role of the assistant becomes more complex and given more responsibility, positions will more likely be granted to qualified, educated individuals. Many veterinary hospitals operate 24 hours allowing for a flexible schedule.

Veterinary assistants will work under professional veterinarians by providing day to day care for ailing animals and assistance, logging progress and notes, assisting in the operating room, and fulfilling an overall support role within a veterinary hospital. Assistants may also be responsible for initial contact with pet owners, and thus must be cordial and professional to put the owner at ease in regard to his or her pet's health and safety.

Veterinary Assistant Job Duties

A veterinary assistant will have the knowledge and job training to help treat a variety of injuries and illnesses of pets and other animals.  Veterinary assistants will spend their time working in conjunction with a veterinarian or veterinary technician to examine animals, provide a medical diagnosis, treat wounds, rehabilitate animals, provide tests, provide inoculations, counsel pet owners, and help during surgery.

Veterinary Assistant Salary

Learning how much vet assistants make can be discovered here. The average salary of a veterinary assistant is $26,140 per year with the top ten percent making nearly forty-thousand dollars annually. This is primarily due to the current demands and expectations in veterinary medicine. As job responsibilities and work experience rise, so too will the overall compensation for veterinary assistants.

Industry growth for veterinary assistants is poised to rocket 19% over the coming decade. Surveys produced by the BLS indicate this large jump in vet assistants will occur year over year adding some sixteen thousand jobs. Job growth will translate to opportunities for entry-level positions and career growth as animal clinics grow and expand their services.

Students interested in veterinary assistance may also wish to consider a career as a medical assistant, pharmacy technician, and occupational therapist assistant. For additional information about a career in veterinary medicine, check out our Complete Guide for Veterinarians on our blog. You can also visit the AVMA then read our blog post titledTop College Degrees for Animal Lovers for additional information.

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