How to Become a Veterinary Technician
The demand for veterinarian professionals is expected to increase a hefty 36% from now until 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Overview & Salaries
Median Salary:
$30,290
Expected Growth from 2012-2020:
+25,000
Specialization Options:
Research and management
Recommended Degree:
The right degree for you depends on the industry and company you apply for. Those looking for an entry positions need a bachelors degree from a veterinary technology or veterinary technician program. A certified or licensing exam is needed as well depending on what state you live in. Learn more by clicking our “Education Required” tab up top.
(all information above provided by the 2012 BLS Manicurist and Pedicurist page)
Discover the Best Places to Become a Veterinary Technician
The state of Texas currently has the highest number of jobs in the veterinary technician field, with 8,820 positions being occupied by professionals who are making an average yearly salary of $28,400. California is not far behind, yet offers a higher wage for practitioners, where 8,640 veterinary technicians make an annual mean wage of $35,380.
According to a survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, average starting salaries for veterinary medical college graduates in 2011 in different private specialties were as follows:
| Food animal exclusive | $71,096 |
| Companion animal exclusive | $69,789 |
| Companion animal predominant | $69,654 |
| Food animal predominant | $67,338 |
| Mixed animal | $62,655 |
| Equine | $43,405 |
Employment & Salary Information by State for Veterinary Technicians
Use our interactive map below to find out which areas of the United States are currently experiencing the greatest amount of growth and job availability for graduates looking for a career in Veterinary Technology. The associated information has been gathered from the Bureau of Labor statistics, representing data collected in 2012.
Employment and Information Data for Veterinary Technician
Why Become a Veterinary Technician
The American pet population has exploded in recent decades and as more and more people continue to consider their animals part of the family, the greater the need for qualified veterinary professionals will become. In addition to private pet ownership, animal livestock that feeds much of the nation is increasing and health concerns over sanitary and safe food production has created an even greater demand for veterinary oversight.
Recommended Courses to Help You Become aVeterinary Technician
- Animal Physiology and Anatomy
- Animal Nutrition
- Organic Chemisty
- Veterinary Immunology Course
- Veterinary Virology
- Animals in Society
- Biological Sciences
- Genetics
- Veterinary Anesthesiology
- Biochemestry
- Physics
Degrees for Veterinary Technician Careers
Veterinarian Assistant Programs
A certificate program provides training necessary to perform the role of veterinary assistant in emergency animal hospitals and general veterinarian offices. Coursework focuses on examination procedures, animal handling and surgical preparation and assisting, among others.
Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine (DVM)
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics there are currently 28 colleges with accredited veterinarian programs. The DVM typically takes four years of post-college curriculum that includes classroom, laboratory, and clinical components to prepare students to work in all veterinarian related fields.