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YB WEB DESK. Dated: 1/20/2022 12:15:01 PM
Animal Health Technician Training
Animal health technicians, also known as veterinary technicians, provide assistance with animal care to veterinarians. Undergraduate degrees in veterinary technology prepare students for certification, which is required for employment. Educational options for this field of study include associate's and bachelor's degree programs in veterinary technology. In order to get admitted, students must have a high school diploma or GED, and may need to undergo a criminal background check and health screening. Programs may culminate with an internship experience that allows students to gain handson animal care experience, as both degree programs are designed to prepare students to take the veterinary technician national examination. This exam is the first step toward obtaining state licensure or certification. Requirements for these credentials vary by state, and students should verify them with their state boards. Other career outcomes include laboratory manager and surgical assistant. A bachelor's degree program in veterinary technology can be used as a pathway to becoming a veterinary technologist or as a pre-veterinary degree program with a pathway to veterinary medical school. Topics in the program cover small animal nursing, surgical nursing and a course that allows students to explore professional opportunities in veterinary technology. In the final phase of the program, students complete an internship at an area veterinary facility.