Veterinary technology is a career in which skilled veterinary technicians participate in the exciting and challenging field of veterinary medicine working with animals and their owners under the supervision of veterinarians. The five-term Associate of Applied Science degree program provides didactic, lab and clinical experiences necessary for employment in the field of veterinary care and technology. Upon completion of the program, the graduate is ready to be an integral part of the veterinary health care team providing care and support to animals. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Examination and the New Mexico Board of Veterinary Practice Act Examination. Upon passing both examinations successfully, the applicant is eligible for licensure by the New Mexico Board of Veterinary Medicine (NMBVM) as a Registered Veterinary Technician. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education (COE) and Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) nationally accredits the Program.
Special Requirements
Program Entry Registration Screening
This is a “Coordinated Program Entry” program; students must complete a pre-registration screening process administered through the Coordinated Program Entry Office before being eligible to register for program courses.
Other Compliance Requirements
Many of the health programs in HWPS require students to undergo a routine urine drug screen, provide documentation of current immunizations, have a current Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (CPR) certificate and other training prior to beginning the program or beginning clinical education, all of which, along with the criminal background check, are verified through the Office of Verification and Compliance.
Physical Requirements
Students must be in good physical and psychological health. Students may be asked to provide documentation of a recent physical examination. Many health programs require the student to be able to safely lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are made for students with disabilities. However, some disabilities may prohibit students from completing program specific competencies or gaining employment. Students with disabilities that may interfere with completing program competencies are advised to contact the School of Health, Wellness & Public Safety (HWPS) Office for more information.
Program Fees
Program fees cover costs incurred on behalf of the student for student-issued equipment, background checks, drug screens, etc.
Transportation
Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus training sites (i.e. clinical courses at hospitals, internships, etc.).
Career and Educational Opportunities
Employment opportunities for Registered Veterinary Technicians in New Mexico are excellent. RVTs work in private clinical veterinary practices, animal control and animal humane centers, zoos and wildlife facilities, diagnostic laboratories, biomedical facilities, federal positions, and institutions of higher learning as well as in other areas involving animal care. In some jobs, the academic training allows for rapid advancement into management positions with commensurate higher pay.
This program’s first term courses are offered in the fall term only. This may delay a student’s program start date. Please check with an academic advisor for more information.
