Veterinary Technology

As the field of veterinary medicine becomes increasingly complex, there is a growing need for skilled, educated paraprofessionals who can perform a variety of duties. Veterinary technicians work as a team with veterinarians providing medical, surgical, and laboratory procedures. They offer comprehensive support to clients in office procedures as well as general healthcare to the animal patient.

The Veterinary Technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. The program provides education in the basic
sciences and liberal arts as well as in veterinary technology. Hands-on experience is obtained during clinical affiliations at local animal hospitals.
First- year veterinary courses must be successfully completed before registration in the following semesters.

Technical Standards
The program is physically strenuous requiring lifting small animals and working with large animals. Sufficient manual dexterity and vision is necessary to perform clinical and microscopic procedures. Students will be expected to establish priorities, function effectively in emergency situations, comply with safety regulations, and communicate in a professional manner during clinical affiliations. Individuals who cannot meet these standards may have difficulty satisfying course objectives and becoming successful as a Veterinary Technician.

Admissions requirements:
In addition to College-wide admission requirements, applicants to the Veterinary Technology program must have completed high school biology,
chemistry, and algebra, provide two professional references, and have an interview with the program director. High school algebra II is recommended. Applicants who are not transferring English and math credits from another institution must complete Accuplacer testing and place into college-level coursework for English, math and reading before taking the Introductory to Veterinary Technology course.

Because of increased interest in the program, completion of the application process by April 1st is encouraged. Applications will be accepted after April 1st until the program is filled.

Additional Expenses:
Prior to their clinical affiliations, students must possess liability and health insurance (available through the College), have current rabies and tetanus vaccinations, and purchase radiology badges. Transportation to their clinical site is the responsibility of students.

Successful completion of this degree program provides students the opportunity to seek employment in the veterinary hospitals and other related fields. They are also eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam to become certified or licensed. Graduates may find jobs in veterinary hospitals, medical laboratories, pet-related industries, zoos, research facilities, and the pharmaceutical industry.

Veterinary Technology Transfer Credit Policy: In addition to NHCTC Stratham & Portsmouth transfer credit policies, there is a 10-year limitation on accepting the course equivalencies of BIOL111, BIOL121, VETN110 and VETN114. Exceptions may be made by the Department Chairperson.

*Students planning on transfer to a four-year college may substitute CHEM115.