Veterinary Technician
Why study to be a Veterinary Technician?
With a team-centered atmosphere, modern facilities, and unique hands-on learning partnerships, COCC's Veterinary Technician (Vet Tech) program prepares students for rewarding careers in treating and caring for animals. One of only two American Veterinary Medical Association-accredited programs in Oregon, the Redmond-based Vet Tech program combines a fully functioning vet clinic, ultra-realistic animal simulations, visits to ranches, rescues, and other field experiences, plus direct work with patients through an affiliation with BrightSide Animal Center.
In this two-year program (summers off), students gain confidence and refine technical skills as they progress from small hands-on labs and lectures to fulfilling 360 hours of clinical internship work during their final term, making career connections in the process.
"Not only do you get to work with animals, but you get to work with the people who love them, and that's a reward in itself."
Certified veterinary technicians provide the day-to-day care that assists veterinarians, from radiology and diagnostic testing to lab work and surgery prep. Veterinary technicians must pass both a national and state credentialing exam and stay current with continuing education to be licensed/registered/certified (varies by state).
FUTURE STUDENTS
Learn more about attending Central Oregon Community College.
Program-Specific Information
The Veterinary Technician Associate of Applied Science is designed to prepare students to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination to become a certified veterinary technician. The program provides education in subjects such as animal husbandry, nursing, nutrition, animal handling, parasitology, hematology, microbiology, radiology, pharmacology, anesthesiology, dental prophylaxis, surgical assisting, and office procedures.
Our program aligns with the legal standards of practice necessary for professional licensure in the state of Oregon. After obtaining your license, if you consider relocating to another U.S. state, explore our resources to understand whether your skills meet licensing requirements in different states.
Contact
Beth Palmer
Program Director
Associate Professor of Veterinary Technician Education
541-318-3724
bpalmer@cocc.edu
How to Pay for College
Our Financial Aid staff can guide you through ways to pay for college.
Learn More
COCC's Admissions Specialists provide webinars and virtual sessions to learn more about COCC.
Accreditation Information
The program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities as a program for educating veterinary technicians.
Pass Rate
Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) 3-Year Pass Rate
- Dates: July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2024
- Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE: 14
- Three-year VTNE pass percentage: 100%
