Veterinary Technology (Distance Education Option)

Individuals interested in pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology have two options: the two-year, full-time, on-campus option at BRCC’s Weyers Cave location or the three-year, part-time, distance education option.

Both options are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and have competitive admissions. Upon completion of either option, students are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and apply for a license to practice as a veterinary technician. Possible careers for graduates include: technician in a veterinary hospital, animal shelter, wildlife center, zoo, or with the military. Other opportunities include diagnostic/research laboratories, the pharmaceutical industry, veterinary supply sales, livestock managers or veterinary education.

Award: Associate of Applied Science Degree
Length: Nine semesters total, includes three summers (three year program)
Additional Program Information: https://www.brcc.edu/academics/programs/vettech/  
Potential Additional Funding Information: https://www.brcc.edu/g3/

This program is designed for those students who cannot relocate for the on-campus option at the Weyers Cave location. It is designed for those individuals currently working in practices as veterinary assistants.

Classes meet twice weekly and students must come to the BRCC campus three times per semester for laboratories.

A coordinated externship, required during the summer between the second and third year, includes 350 hours of work in a veterinary hospital. 

Students must pass each VET-prefix course in the Veterinary Technology curriculum in order to continue in the program. A minimum GPA of 2.0 in VET-prefix courses, in addition to a 2.0 curricular GPA, is required for graduation.

The program is selective and all application materials are due the final business day of January for summer enrollment of the same year. Applicants are screened and awarded points in the following categories: academic credentials, veterinary/animal experience, awareness of the profession, quality of recommendation and aptitude test scores. Notification of all applicants will occur by the end of April.

Applicants to the distance education option should have completed the SDV, ENG 111, CHM 110 and 3 other credits of curriculum requirements at the time of application (10 of the 16 credits). Alternately, applicants may be currently enrolled in these courses at the time of application with admission being contingent upon successful completion.  

Applicants to the distance education option must be employed at least 20 hours per week by a veterinarian who is willing to serve as their official preceptor and allow them to perform tasks taught in courses. Employment must commence by the time program coursework begins and continue for the duration of the program.

Admission Requirements

1. high school diploma or equivalent
2. completion of high school or college biology, including lab, with a “C” or better
3. completed BRCC application
4. completed application for admission to the Veterinary Technology Program
5. completion of  SDV, ENG 111, CHM 110 and 3 other credits of curriculum requirements prior to application (applicants may be currently enrolled in these courses with admission being contingent upon successful completion)
6. official transcripts from high school and colleges attended
7. observation of a licensed veterinary technician in a veterinary hospital for a minimum of 35 hours within the last calendar year, including completion of observation form
8. upon request of the program, an interview with program staff may be requested after the application deadline.

Application materials and instructions can be found by visiting https://www.brcc.edu/academics/programs/vettech/vet-tech-admissions/ 

Curriculum

¹

VET 218 is a lab component of VET 217. 

Advanced Veterinary Assisting 

Award: Career Studies Certificate
Potential Additional Funding Information: https://www.brcc.edu/g3/

Purpose: to prepare students who wish to gain employment as a veterinary assistant and are considering applying to the Veterinary Technology A.A.S. degree program Blue Ridge Community College.

Students are not required to complete all courses listed below prior to applying to Veterinary Technology A.A.S. degree program. However, successful completion of the Advanced Veterinary Assisting Career Studies Certificate will strengthen the applicant’s academic record. Completing the Advanced Veterinary Assisting Career Studies Certificate does not guarantee admission into Blue Ridge Community College’s Veterinary Technology program.

Please also note that there are specific admission requirements for the Veterinary Technology Program.  Students should work with an Academic Advisor and consult the Blue Ridge Community College website at www.brcc.edu/academics/programs/vettech/ for a full list of admission requirements.