How long does it take to become a vet tech in california

Are you looking for a career in California that is in high demand and will allow you to satisfy your passion for animals?

If so, you may want to consider training for a career as a veterinary technician.

There is an increasing need for qualified vet techs in California, and those who choose to work in the field can expect an average starting salary of about $34,000 per year.

Vet Tech Schools in California

If you wish to earn your veterinary technology degree in California, you have dozens of fine schools to choose among.

However, to help you with your decision, all of the following schools offer veterinary technician programs that are approved for licensing by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

• Carrington College – Citrus Heights, Sacramento, Pleasant Hill and Pomona
• Carrington College – San Jose, Stockton and San Leandro
• Cosumnes River College – Sacramento
• Los Angeles Pierce College – Woodland Hills
• Foothill College – Los Altos Hills
• Mount San Antonio College – Walnut
• Platt College – Ontario and Alhambra
• Pima Medical Institute – Chula Vista
• Yuba College – Marysville
• San Joaquin College – Fresno
• California State Polytechnic University – Pomona

Admission Requirements

After making the decision to enroll in a veterinary technician program, you will need to fulfill the admission requirements as set by the school of your choice.

Admission requirements may vary slightly from one educational facility to another; however some common requirements are listed here.

• High School Graduate or GED
• Official High School or GED Transcripts
• Overall GPA Average of 2.0
• SAT/ACT Scores
• Admission Application and Fee
• College/University Placement Exams
• First-Year Orientation or Interview
• CPR Certification
• Background Screening and/or Drug Screening

Typical Vet Tech Curriculum

Your veterinary technician curriculum was specially-designed to provide you with all of the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the field of veterinary technology. The program will consist of a combination of traditional classroom lectures, various labs and required clinical work as described below.

General Education Requirements

Before you can begin the veterinary technician program, you will need to complete what is known as a core curriculum. This curriculum consists of several general education courses that are determined by the scores you receive on your placement exams. Some typical general education requirements are as follows.

• Microbiology
  
• English Composition I and II
• Intermediate Algebra
• Computer Skills
• Behavioral and Social Science
• Oral Communications
• Technical Writing
• Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
• Humanities or Fine Arts

Vet Tech-Related Requirements

Successful completion of the required core curriculum will make you eligible to enter into the veterinary technician program. However, most schools require that you complete all of your general education courses with at least a C average. While the vet tech courses you will need to take may vary depending on the school you attend, some typical courses can be found below.

• Veterinary Medical Terminology
• Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology
• Animal Management and Clinical Skills
• Topics in Veterinary Technology
• Animal Care Skills
• Veterinary Office Practices
• Introduction to Large Animal Care
• Laboratory Animal Technology
• Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
• Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians
• Clinical Pathology Methods
• Advanced Animal Care Skills
• Animal Diseases
• Anesthesiology for Vet Techs
• Animal Dentistry
• Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
• Veterinary Technician Internship

The Veterinary Technician National Exam

Before you can obtain a vet tech license in California, you will need to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam. This is a computer-based, multiple choice test that is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. You must receive a passing score on this test to be eligible for licensing.

The VTNE is offered at various locations throughout the year, and you can find a testing site near you by contacting the AAVSB. You will have up to four hours to complete your test; however, most applicants are able to finish it within three. If necessary, you are allowed to retake the test up to four times.

California’s Licensing Requirements

The last step to beginning a veterinary technician career in California is obtaining a license. For you to obtain a vet tech license in California, you will need to apply to the state’s Department of Consumer Affairs/Veterinary Medical Board. When applying, you will need to make sure that you meet the following requirements.

• Submission of an Official Licensing Application
• Completion of an Approved Veterinary Technician Program
• Certified College/University Transcripts
• Completion of the Veterinary Technician National Exam
• Payment of the Current Licensing Fee
• Background Check and Fingerprints
• Current Passport-Sized Photo

Enjoy the Benefits of a Vet Tech Career!

There are many fantastic benefits to choosing a veterinary technician career in California. Not only is there a high demand for these professionals in the state, but they enjoy excellent salaries as well.

Furthermore, working as a veterinary technician is a wonderful way to show your passion and love for animals.

Veterinary Technician Programs In California

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