VET TECH ACCREDITATIONS

All important veterinary technician programs in the United States are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  Most accredited programs are offered on campus, are designed to be completed in less than 24 months, and lead to associate degrees.

Accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) represents the highest standard of achievement for veterinary technician education in the United States. Institutions that earn this accreditation confirm their commitment to quality and continuous improvement through a rigorous and comprehensive peer review. 

AVMA-accredited programs must meet high standards for faculty, curriculum, and facilities.  The curriculum will include courses that provide training and experience in a wide range of essential skills. You generally also should be able to complete your training with hands-on work with live animals.

Graduates of AVMA-accredited programs are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), which is required in most states to become a credentialed (certified, licensed, or registered) veterinary technician.  Being a credentialed veterinary technician can allow for greater responsibility, pay, and advancement in a career.  The VTNE is a 4-hour, 200 multiple-choice question, national examination that is prepared by the AAVSB. The exam covers entry-level proficiency in seven major areas of veterinary technician knowledge:

• Pharmacy and pharmacology
• Surgical preparation and assisting
• Dentistry
• Laboratory procedures
• Animal care and nursing
• Diagnostic imaging
• Anesthesia and analgesia