Q. What is a Veterinary Technician?
A. Veterinary technicians typically conduct clinical work in a private practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian performing various medical tests and treat and diagnose medical conditions and diseases in animals. Some veterinary technicians record patients' case histories, expose and develop x rays and radiographs, and provide specialized nursing care. Veterinary technicians assisting small-animal practitioners usually care for small pets, such as cats and dogs, but can perform a variety of duties with mice, rats, sheep, pigs, cattle, monkeys, birds, fish, and frogs. Additional employment opportunities for veterinary technicians can be found in research facilities under the guidance of veterinarians or physicians.

Q. When does the program start and what is the application deadline for the program?
A. The program starts in August of each year.  The deadline for applications is May 1st.  Applications may be accepted after the deadline date.  However, applications accepted after the deadline date may not be considered for the upcoming program class.

Q. What are the application requirements?
A. To apply to the program, you must have completed with a grade of “C” or higher or be enrolled in the courses listed below.  However, the selection of students for the program is based on the number of required general education and natural science courses completed at the time of program selection.

• ENC 1101 – English Composition I
• BSC 1005 – General Education Biology
• BSC 1005 – General Education Biology Lab
• CGS 1060 – Introduction to Microcomputer Usage
  

Q. What are the admissions/selection criteria?
A. Because enrollment is limited in this program, admission/selection criteria is based on the number of required general education and natural science courses completed at the time of program selection with top priority given to students that have completed all of the required general education and science courses.  Additionally, GPA is included in the selection process.

Q. Can I apply if I have not completed all of the general education and natural science courses?
A. You can apply to the program before completing these courses. However, selection is based on the number of courses completed.  You are encouraged to complete all of the non-program courses to increase your chances of acceptance into the program.

Q. What kind of degree will I be awarded when I graduate?
A. You will earn an Associate of Science degree in Veterinary Technology in approximately two years.  This will qualify you to participate in the national certification examination process.

Q. What are the hours of the program?
A. The program classes are primarily offered weekdays from approximately 8:00am – 4:00pm. Some evening and weekend attendance is required.

Q. Can I work while I am a student in the program?
A. Employment is not encouraged.  Students must earn at least a final grade of “C” or better in each course to continue in the program.

Q. Do you assist with job placement after graduation?
A. The Medical Campus does not provide job placement.  Through the Career Center located in the New Student Center on the Medical Campus, graduates may review employment opportunities that have been forwarded to the Career Center.

Q. Do I need to take a test to work in this profession after graduation?
A. Licensure is not required to practice as a Veterinary Technician in the State of Florida but all graduates are encouraged to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) with the American Association of Veterinary State Boards and The Professional Education Service and the Florida Practical Exam (FPE) with the Florida Veterinary Medical Association.