Becoming a Veterinary Technician in Vermont

The field of veterinary technology has one of the strongest job outlooks of any field in the country. In Vermont, job growth in this field is expected to happen at a rate of 18.6 percent between 2012 and 2022, which is well above the projected average for overall job growth even though it is somewhat below the overall job growth rate for veterinary technology. [Leer en español]

Salaries for Veterinary Technicians

The median annual salary for veterinary technicians in Vermont is slightly higher than the national average: $33,180 compared to $32,350 for vet techs nationwide. This is great news for new vet techs, who should be able to make a good living as soon as they start in this profession. In addition, experienced veterinary technicians in Vermont may be able to earn significantly more: the top earners in the field of veterinary technology in Vermont may command an annual salary of up to $42,860, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Requirements for Veterinary Technicians

Vermont does not have any mandatory requirements for veterinary technicians. However, the Vermont Veterinary Technician Association (VVTA) does offer certification, and many Vermont employers will give hiring preference and better salaries to vet techs who complete the certification process. The first step in this process is graduation from an American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) approved program, after which graduates need to pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Certified veterinary technician status must then be maintained by taking continuing education credits every two years.

In addition to certification, Vermont law also requires that all veterinary technicians have liability insurance to work within the state. This requirement can usually be met easily and cheaply through either the VVTA or through an individual policy from a private insurer.

Veterinary Technician National Examination

The VTNE is arguably the most important part of any veterinary technician’s journey to becoming licensed. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including animal anatomy and physiology, clinical nursing, medical math, and pharmacology. It is administered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB), which offers two test dates per year in Vermont.

Featured School

Penn Foster College – Veterinary Technician Program

Penn FosterFull accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Clinical externships through a private practice near your home or Penn Foster College’s partner VCA Animal Hospitals. Gain hands-on experience alongside licensed veterinarians and credentialed veterinary technicians. Call 1-800-851-1819 today.

AVMA-Accredited Veterinary Technician Programs

Vermont vet tech schools are not many there is currently only one veterinary technician program in Vermont that has been accredited by the AVMA. The program at Vermont Technical College was first accredited in 1991 and culminates in an associate of applied science degree. Randolph Center is located in the middle of the state, about 20 miles south of the capital city of Montpelier. The program is a two-year, 66-credit degree that prepares students for the VTNE and entry into veterinary technology.

Major Veterinary Technician Employers in Vermont

Vermont veterinary technicians frequently work with small pets and may also help to care for livestock in the state’s beautiful rural areas. There are expected to be around 540 vet techs employed in Vermont by 2022, an increase of 80 jobs since 2012. Some of the major facilities in need of qualified vet techs include:

Professional Organizations

The VVTA is a professional organization for veterinary technicians in Vermont. In addition to providing certification, the VVTA also focuses on providing continuing education opportunities for both certified and non-certified vet techs who want to improve the quality of their care and their employment opportunities. Vermont vet techs may also join the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

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Veterinary Technician Schools in Vermont

Northern Vermont nonmetropolitan area Area

Vermont Technical College

1 Main Street, Randolph Center, Vermont 05061-0500

Veterinary Technology – Associate Program

The Veterinary Technology Associate’s degree program at Vermont Technical College is based at their campus in Randolph Center in Orange County, VT. Most of the school’s 1,542 students are in 4-year programs. The college is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. The cost of tuition for in-state students is usually about $13,490 and for students from other states in the order of $24,866 per year. Learning materials may cost about $1,000, although this varies from program to program.

* Tuition fees and accreditation status are correct at the time of writing, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (http://nces.ed.gov/). Confirm with the college before applying.

Other Options

See options in the neighboring states of New HampshireNew York, and Massachusetts.