Associate in Veterinary Technology
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Veterinary Technology Associate Degree (AAS)


The Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology degree program at Utah Career College prepares students to provide competent, professional and compassionate care for a wide variety of animals. The first veterinary technology program in Utah, it has demonstrated to employers the value of hiring well-trained technicians for entry-level positions in veterinary hospitals, research facilities, laboratories, zoos and other animal care facilities.

Contact us for program information.

Core requirements for the Associate in Veterinary Technology degree

Through lectures and hands-on training, students in the Associate in Veterinary Technology degree program learn and apply skills needed for success in careers in veterinary technology: veterinary support, client communications, office management and patient care.

That is accomplished through 78 credits in veterinary technology courses:

  • Equine medicine
  • Veterinary office procedures
  • Veterinary medical terminology
  • Veterinary technology
  • Veterinary clinical skills
  • Small animal surgery
  • Production animals
  • Animal anatomy and physiology
  • Veterinary pharmacology
  • Imaging
  • lab animals, exotics and pocket pets
  • Hematology and cytology
  • Parasitology
  • Veterinary urinalysis and microbiology
  • Small animal nutrition and nursing
  • Anesthesiology

Externship, VTNE Review and Career Development

Our focus at UCC is on supporting students in meeting their career goals. When our Veterinary Technology PAC (Program Advisory Committee) designed our associate’s degree program, PAC members ensured our students would be strong candidates in the job market. The medical and technical studies listed above are summarized and revisited in the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) review. In the program’s capstone course, a 300-hour externship, the student applies skills and knowledge in a clinical setting under the supervision of veterinary office staff. Finally, the student prepares for a job search in Career Development, receiving personal assistance from our Career Placement Department.

Communications and general education courses

A veterinary technician is often a critical communication link between the veterinarian and the pet owner, giving support to pet owners during euthanasia and other procedures, taking patient histories and explaining care instructions. The Veterinary Technology Associate degree program requires a minimum of eight credits in communications, as well as 22 credits in other areas of liberal arts. These general education courses provide a rich backdrop to students who, as graduates, will be working with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.

More information about the AAS in Veterinary Technology

This is slightly more than a two-year program – a student completing an average of 12 credits per quarter will earn the Veterinary Technology Associate degree in 27 months. Veterinary technology courses are offered at campus locations in West Jordan (13 miles south of Salt Lake City), Layton and Orem. General education courses can be taken at any campus or through the UCC Online Education Department.

Where do you want to be in two years? Please contact UCC Admissions and a representative will help you evaluate this program in light of your personal goals.