What It Takes To Be A Veterinary Technician
Here we explore the job description of these professions, employment facts, and educational requirement plus advancement opportunities to help you make an informed decision regarding your future.
So what do veterinary technologist and technician do? Vet technologist and technicians job entails assisting veterinarians conduct lab and clinical procedures in animal hospitals and clinics. Others work in research establishments assisting in various capacities. The two titles - veterinary technologist and veterinary technician are often used simultaneously though the two are different in the sense that they require different educational and training requirements.
What are the employment figures for the Vet technicians and technologists?
According to the US Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor and Statistics, veterinary technologists and technicians held about 85,000 jobs in the year 2009. This is set to increase this year as more graduates leave school and join the workforce.
What are the educational requirements for veterinary technologists and technicians jobs?
vet technicians are required to have attended an accredited 2-year vet technology program at community college which usually culminates to an associate degree. Vet technologists on the other hand are required to have attended and completed 4-year program which culminates to the award of a bachelor's degree. Vet technicians and technologists training normally consists of lab and clinical work with real animals. High schoolers interested in pursuing a career in this field are advised to study biology and math courses.
Any other requirements for vet technicians and technologists?
Graduates of both 2-year and 4-year vet technology programs are required to sit a credentialing exam upon completion of each respective program in all 50 states in the U.S. Successful taking of the exam results in one being registered, licensed or certified depending in the state that one lives. Majority of states administer a statewide exam referred to as the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Grading scheme works similarly in all states that use this exam making passing scores transferable. Desired personality traits that should be cultivated by all that want to pursue a career in this two fields include good communication skills and interpersonal skills. Aspirants must also be meticulous and pragmatic.
What are the career advancement prospects of veterinary technicians and technologists?
Like in all careers, entry level vet technicians and technologists perform routine and basic tasks under the supervision of a veterinarian. Responsibilities increase as one becomes more experienced. Competent veterinary technologists and technicians rise through the ranks to become supervisors.
What's the job outlook like?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projection shows that these two occupations will continue to grow through 2018 than all other occupations that require post secondary training or an associate degree. This paints a very rosy picture for people aspiring to join these occupations.
Can you list some of the responsibilities of vet technicians and technologists?
* They take and develop x-rays
* They Assist veterinarians with dental procedures
* They administer medications orally or topically
* Provide specialized nursing care to animals.
* Treat and diagnose medical conditions and illnesses.
About the Author:
Want to learn more about biotech jobs and entry level employment? Check out our site for some real cool information.
Article Marketing
13 people like this article
