Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician - AAS-T

Bellingham Technical College Veterinary Technician Program is nationally accredited through the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)

1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360
800.248.2862
https://www.avma.org/

Turn your love of animals into a satisfying career! BTC’s Veterinary Technician program is ideal if you have an aptitude for math and science, and are interested in being a valuable part of the veterinary care team. You’ll work with animals and people, in a job that is different every day.

With BTC’s high quality education and hands-on training, you’ll gain the valuable skills needed now by veterinary hospitals, surgery centers, specialty care providers, zoos, and wildlife facilities.

Join us for an online Veterinary Technician Info Session on February 16th from 5-6pm! You can register for the Info Session HERE.

Note: BTC has not made a determination that the Veterinary Technology curriculum meets educational requirements for licensure/certification outside of Washington State. We encourage students who plan to work out-of-state to check relevant local licensure/certification requirements.

Vet Tech Helpful Links:

Veterinary Technician National Exam VTNE Pass-Rates

IACUC Welfare Concern Report

Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee IACUC Whistleblower Policy-Procedures

IACUC Member List

BTC Vet Tech Program YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7srD-QXqs0ti2HKA39KQvA

Veterinary Technician Video

Employment Information

Data are provided on a program (not credential) level

100%¹ BTC graduate placement rate (Employment Security Department- WA and OR only)
93%³ BTC graduate placement rate (faculty-tracked, national)
100%³ BTC in-field graduate placement rate (faculty-tracked, national)

$43,930 starting annual wage²
$47,008 average annual wage²
$48,526 potential annual wage²

Employment and Wage Data Sources and Information

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect WA/OR employment for students enrolled at BTC between 2017-18 and 2019-20. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Whatcom County and WA State wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2021 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates and reflect 2018-21 employment. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data from the Washington SBCTC that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

³Additional employment rates are provided for programs with faculty who maintain their own employment records of students who graduated between 2017-18 and 2019-20 and who were employed within 9 months of graduation. Both overall and in field of study employment rates are included, respectively. For these programs, the format follows: ESD rate / faculty-tracked overall rate / faculty-tracked in-field rate. These additional, faculty-provided rates are particularly important for programs that tend to have graduates employed outside of WA and OR. Note that due to lack of available data, rates may represent fewer than 3 years of graduates.

Estimated Program Costs

Estimated Books, Tools and Supplies Costs

Tuition Fees and Rates

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

Students interested in the Veterinary Technician program should apply to the college and contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with getting started at BTC. A college application and your score on assessment testing and/or previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence.

This program typically admits students into first quarter core courses in the fall. Registration for Fall Quarter starts halfway through Spring Quarter. We will be accepting students in the Fall of 2023.

Program-ready students are invited to register for Veterinary Technician courses. Students who have completed ALL prerequisite requirements before the start of first quarter core courses will be allowed entry based on the order in which they register.

Checklist for Veterinary Technology

There is no separate admission process or application for this program.

Students will be required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. To be considered fully vaccinated, two weeks must have passed since the date of the second dose or first dose for the one-dose vaccine. The program’s clinical partner agencies will not accept any exemption to full COVID-19 vaccination.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) v.6

Applicants must score at the "BASIC" level or higher in each of the four areas on one transcript. See the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills handout for more information about this entrance assessment.

Having trouble scheduling your ATI TEAS assessment? More options are available! Email the Assessment Center at: assessment@btc.edu

Evidence of High School graduation or equivalent submitted to BTC Admissions Department with a graduation date (or GED Completion) before the start of the Program (September).

Students must be 18 years or older before beginning second quarter courses (January).

Early Program Course Requirements

Completion of the following courses with a minimum grade of 2.0 (C) or higher in each course:

English Composition 1 (ENGL& 101)
Math in Society (MATH& 107) or any MATH course from the AAS-T alternative course list will be accepted.
Interpersonal Communications (CMST& 210) or General Psychology (PSYC& 100)
General Biology with Lab (BIOL& 160)
Introduction to Chemistry (CHEM& 121) preferred, will accept other courses in the following fields: BIOL, CHEM, OCEA, ZOOL
Intro to Veterinary Technology (VETT 100)

ONLY for students who are transferring prior credits to BTC: Official transcripts documenting prerequisite course completion must be submitted and evaluated before registration.

Physical Requirements

AFTER admissions acceptance into the program and prior to beginning program classes students must submit proof of all Clinical Placement Requirements.

Clinical Placement Requirement Info Sheet
This program requires a criminal history background check prior to attending the clinic practicum. Criminal History Background Check Information Sheet

Veterinary Technician Informed Acknowledgment and Consent to Hazards and Risks

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 157

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes
You are now able to sign up for classes in ctcLink using the class list below. It requires certain steps to work smoothly. Please read and follow the instructions:
Once at the beginning of each session:
- Follow the link below which will open the ctcLink login screen in a new browser tab
- In the new tab login to ctcLink
- Return back to this tab
These steps log you into ctcLink and keep you logged in until you log out manually or close your browser. If you or a public computer it is good security practice to logout and close all browser windows when you are done.
Proceed to ctcLink login in new window
For each class:
- Click on the name of the class below to show future offerings
- Click the 'Find in ctcLink' button below the class you wish to find. (Button will only show if registration is open.)
- A new tab with the ctcLink Class Search tool will open
- Without changing any of the filter options, click the 'Search' button
- Only the specific class you selected will show. If logged in following the steps above, you will be able to register for the class.

Quarter 1
VETT 101 Veterinary Nursing I 4 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to safely and effectively obtain subjective and objective patient data that will allow accurate evaluation of the patient with minimum stress and maximum safety. Also, the Veterinary Assistant & Veterinary Technician student will be able to interpret animal body language and use restraint techniques appropriate to the patient and it care needs.
Prerequisite:
MATH& 107 or higher, ENGL& 101, PSYCH& 100 or CMST& 210, CHEM& 121 or CHEM& 161, BIOL& 160, and VETT 100 all with a C or higher, AND ATI TEAS scores: Reading 47.6 or higher, Mathematics 46.7 or higher, Science 33.3 or higher, and English & Language Usage 40.0 or higher.
VETT 102 Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology I 5 CR
Upon completion of this course, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable in the function of basic cell structure, skeletal anatomy & physiology, integument & muscular systems, the respiratory & cardiovascular systems, the hemolymphatic, gastrointestinal, endocrine, reproductive, urinary, & nervous systems in the canine and feline.
Prerequisite:
MATH& 107 or higher, ENGL& 101, PSYCH& 100 or CMST& 210, CHEM& 121 or CHEM& 161, BIOL& 160, and VETT 100 all with a C or higher, AND ATI TEAS scores: Reading 47.6 or higher, Mathematics 46.7 or higher, Science 33.3 or higher, and English & Language Usage 40.0 or higher. Co-requisites: VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 103, VETT 201
VETT 103 Veterinary Medical Terminology 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will: understand terms of anatomical topography, nursing records and pharmaceutical, emergency and surgical, medicine, and patient description terms; students should also be comfortable and accurate with metric system conversion.
Prerequisite:
MATH& 107 or higher, ENGL& 101, PSYC& 100 or CMST& 101 or CMST& 210 or CMST& 220 or CMST& 230 or SOC& 101 or PSYC& 200, CHEM& 161, BIOL& 160, and VETT 100 all with a C or higher, AND ATI TEAS scores: Reading 47.6 or higher, Mathematics 46.7 or higher, Science 33.3 or higher, and English & language Usage 40.0 or higher. Co-Requisites: VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 101, VETT 201.
VET 120 Medical Dosages and Calculations 3 CR
The course will cover the necessary concepts involved in mathematics used in veterinary medicine. This will include: dosage calculations, English and metric conversions, percents, ratios, and other technical applications. This course includes both lecture and lab learning formats.
Prerequisite:
Veterinary Technician Program Admission.
VETT 201 Mentorship Lab I 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skill focus: animal restraint, physical exam, diagnostic sampling, and small animal patient care.
Prerequisites:
MATH& 107 or higher, ENGL& 101, PSYC& 100 or PSYC& 200 or CMST& 100 or CMST& 210 or CMST& 220 or CMST& 230 or SOC& 101, CHEM& 121 or CHEM& 161, BIOL& 160, and VETT 100 all with a C or higher, AND ATI TEAS scores: Reading 47.6 or higher, Mathematics 46.7 or higher, Science 33.3 or higher, and English & Language Usage 40.0 or higher. Corequisites: VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, VETT 120
Quarter 2
VETT 104 Veterinary Nutrition I 3 CR
Given the characteristics of the patient, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will understand appropriate and inappropriate dietary components for various life stages to promote optimal health. Also, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to explain nutritional recommendations to clients and reinforce owner compliance.
Prerequisites:
VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, and VETT 201 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 105 Learning for a Lifetime 2 CR
The goals of this module are to enable the student to learn the materials of Veterinary Technician medicine in a logical, goal-oriented manner. The Veterinary Technician student should be empowered with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The Veterinary Technician student should be able to utilize a variety of reference media and assess that material for quality of content. Finally, the Veterinary Technician student should be able to tailor study skills to address their personal strengths and weaknesses with the goal of maximizing retention of material learned during the Veterinary Technician Program and in continuing education pursuits throughout his or her career.
Prerequisites:
VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, and VETT 201 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 106 Microbiology, Virology, & Mycology 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to classify, collect, & culture bacteria. The Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician student will also be knowledgeable in mycology & virology.
Prerequisites:
VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, and VETT 201 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 107 Small Animal Parasitology 4 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to: 1) Identify and describe the life cycle of ecto- and endo- parasites; 2) Understand the importance of parasites in veterinary and zoonotic disease; 3) Understand the importance of, and demonstrate proper diagnostic fecal techniques; 4) Identify parasite ova, adults and non-parasite artifacts; 5) Review therapy and prevention of parasitic diseases.
Prerequisites:
VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, and VETT 201 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 108 Radiology I 4 CR
Given the characteristics of the patient and the radiographic study that has been requested, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to prepare the radiographic equipment, measure the animal using topographic landmarks and choose the appropriate radiographic technique to provide maximum diagnostic benefit in an appropriate and safe manner. The student will also be able to assess the image quality and offer options to correct deficiencies.
Prerequisite:
VET 120, VETT 101, VETT 102, VETT 103, and VETT 201 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 202 Mentorship Lab II 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skills focus: advanced sampling techniques and beginning radiology.
Prerequisite:
VETT 201 with a C- or higher.
Quarter 3
VETT 109 Clinical Laboratory Sciences 4 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to properly handle and submit appropriate samples for diagnostic analysis to ensure maximum accuracy of results. Also, given the characteristics of the laboratory equipment, the student will perform diagnostic test and determine proper maintenance and quality control procedures necessary to ensure accurate results. Skills will be developed in performing basic hematology, urinalysis and cytology.
Prerequisites:
VETT 104, VETT 105, VETT 106, VETT 107, VETT 108, and VETT 202 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 110 Veterinary Anatomy & Physiology II 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable in: 1) Unique equine features: head and gastrointestinal tract and reproductive tract; 2) Unique ruminant features: gastrointestinal tract and reproductive tract and foot; 3) Avian anatomy.
Prerequisites:
VETT 104, VETT 105, VETT 106, VETT 107, and VETT 108 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 111 Small Animal Medicine I 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable in: 1) The general approach to medical problems and become familiar with systemic diseases; 2) Respiratory & cardiac diseases; 3) Gastrointestinal diseases; 4) Urinary tract diseases; 5) Liver & pancreas diseases; 6) Endocrine diseases; 7) Neurologic diseases; 8) Erythrocytes, platelets, & coagulation.
Prerequisite:
VETT 104, VETT 105, VETT 106, VETT 107, VETT 108, and VETT 202 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 112 Veterinary Nursing II (Surgical) 5 CR
Given the characteristics of the patient and the surgical procedure to be performed, the Veterinary Technician student will be able to: 1) Assess the patient's pre-surgical status and tests and report to the veterinarian; 2) Verify the owner's consent to the procedure and its cost; 3) Identify and apply appropriate surgical site preparation of hair clipping and decontamination; 4) Position the patient appropriately for maximum surgical convenience and safety; 5) Maintain aseptic technique for surgical facility and equipment.
Prerequisite:
VETT 104, VETT 105, VETT 106, VETT 107, VETT 108 and VETT 202 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 203 Mentorship Lab III 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skills focus: surgical assisting and nursing, dressing and bandaging techniques.
Prerequisite:
VETT 202 with a C- or higher.
Quarter 4
VETT 117 Veterinary Nursing III (Large Animal) 4 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be able to safely and effectively obtain subjective and objective patient data that will allow accurate evaluation of the patient with minimum stress and maximum safety. In addition, the student will be able to carry out appropriate therapeutic techniques and diagnostics in order to achieve maximum health benefits for the large animal (equine/bovine/porcine) patient.
Prerequisite:
VETT 110 with a C- or higher.
VETT 118 Small Animal Medicine II 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable with the following relative small animal medicine: 1) Lymphatics, spleen, and bone marrow; 2) Reproductive disorders; 3) Trauma medicine; 4) Transfusion medicine; 5) Sepsis; 6) Diabetes mellitus and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA); 7) Acute abdomen stabilization.
Prerequisite:
VETT 105, VETT 110, VETT 111, VETT 112, VETT 113, VETT 114 & VETT 203 with a minimum grade C- in each course
VETT 119 Advanced Clinical Lab Sciences 4 CR
This is an advanced course in clinical laboratory sciences for the Veterinary Technician, prerequisite is successful completion of Clinical Laboratory Sciences I (VETT 109). Evaluation methods are described by body system and include: hematology, cytology, clinical chemistries and urinalysis. Emphasis is placed on proper collection and handling of all samples. The proper use of common laboratory equipment is also practiced in the laboratory setting, this includes: microscopes, in-house analyzers for hematology and chemistries, refractometers and staining systems. Introduction into sampling, hematology and chemistries for exotic and laboratory species also occurs in this course. Introduction to EKG and blood pressure and the theory of serology.
Prerequisites:
VETT 109, VETT 110, VETT 111, VETT 112, and VETT 203 all with a C- or higher in each course.
VETT 120 Anesthesia 5 CR
This is an introductory course to veterinary anesthesia. The phrmacology of anesthetic agents; the equipment associated with anesthesia and the monitoring and care of the anesthetic patient will be emphasized. Recognizing the signs of pains, scoring of pain and interventional medications and techniques for alleviating pain will be taught. Post-operative care, including physical therapy and client education willbe discussed and practiced.
Prerequisites:
VETT 109, VETT 110, VETT 111, VETT 112, and VETT 203 all with a C- or hgiher in each course.
VETT 204 Mentorship Lab IV 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skills focus: anesthesia, advanced diagnostics.
Prerequisite:
VETT 203 with a C- or higher.
Quarter 5
VETT 113 Immunology & Pharmacology I 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be able to calculate the correct amount of medication in the prescribed form and administer it by the prescribed route as directed by a veterinarian. The Veterinary Technician student shall also be able to differentiate between normal and abnormal responses to medications and communicate necessary information to clients in order to maximize safety and compliance for effective treatment. Finally, the Veterinary Technician student should be proficient at inventory control procedures, especially as applied to controlled substances.
Prerequisite:
VETT 117, VETT 118, VETT 119, VETT 120, and VETT 204 with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 9:30 AM-10:00 AM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 114 Dentistry 4 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable of: 1) Dental anatomy & pathophysiology; 2) Dental radiographs; 3) Dental instruments & usage; 4) Large animal dentistry (equine & swine); 5) Small mammal dentistry & avian beaks.
Prerequisite:
VETT 104, VETT 106, VETT 107, VETT 108, and VETT 109 all with a C- or higher.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 10:00 AM-11:00 AM Dzyban
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Th 9:00 AM-2:30 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 115 Radiology II 4 CR
Given the characteristics of the patient and the radiographic study that has been requested, the Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technician student will be able to prepare the radiographic equipment, measure the animal using topographic landmarks and choose the appropriate radiographic technique to provide maximum diagnostic benefit in an appropriate and safe manner for specialty studies of the spine, pelvis and GI tract of the dog/cat. The Veterinary Technician student will be able to assess the image quality and offer options to correct deficiencies. Also given the characteristics of the patient and the non-radiographic imaging study requested, the Veterinary Technician student will properly prepare the imaging site and equipment and position the patient appropriately for the study of large animal (equine/bovine) leg/foot.
Prerequisites:
VETT 117, VETT 118, VETT 119, VETT 120, and VETT 204 all with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 11:00 AM-12:00 PM Dzyban
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 T 9:00 AM-3:00 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 116 Large Animal Medicine 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be knowledgeable in: 1) Equine preventative health care, gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory & cardia diseases, lameness, & reproductive & neonate diseases; 2) Bovine gastrointestinal & reproductive diseases; 3) Important diseases of sheep, goats, & llamas.
Prerequisite:
VETT 115, VETT 118, VETT 119, VETT 120, VETT 121 & VETT 125 with a minimum grade of C- in each course
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 M 1:30 PM-2:30 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 125 Humanity of Veterinary Medicine 3 CR
Upon completion of this module, the Veterinary Technician student will be able to effectively contribute to the professional and efficient operation of the veterinary facility in order to provide maximum benefits to clients, patients, and the facility. Also, the Veterinary Technician student will be able to effectively and accurately acquire and convey information to the client and to the veterinary colleagues.
Prerequisites:
VETT 117, VETT 118, VETT 119, VETT 120, and VETT 204 all with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Birch
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 205 Mentorship Lab V 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skills focus: equine patient care, bovine patient care, and advanced radiology procedures.
Prerequisite:
VETT 204 with a C- or higher
Current & Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-03/24/2023 Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 6
VETT 121 Exotic Animal Medicine 3 CR
This is an introductory course of the anatomy/handling and diseases common of 'pocket pet' and laboratory animal species including: birds, reptiles, rabbits, ferrets, rodents, and guinea pigs. Additionally, husbandry of salmon, and orphaned wildlife will be discussed.
Prerequisites:
VETT 113, VETT 114, VETT 115, VETT 116, VETT 125, and VETT 205 all with C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Th 9:00 AM-11:00 AM Dzyban
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Th 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 122 Veterinary Nutrition II 2 CR
This course is an advanced veterinary nutrition online course. Veterinary Nutrition I (VETT 104) is a prerequisite to this course. Veterinary Nutrition II explores therapeutic nutrition for the diseases of the gastrointestinal, cardiac, urinary, musculoskeletal, and neurological systems in small animals. Special emphasis is placed on recovery care and nutritional enteral interventions such as esophageal and gastric tube feedings; and parenteral nutrition. Therapeutic Nutrition for specific conditions of the horse will also be explored.
Prerequisites:
VETT 113, VETT 114, VETT 115, VETT 116, VETT 125, and VETT 205 all with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 123 Veterinary Nursing IV (Critical Care) 5 CR
This is an advanced course exploring the pathophysiology an interventions of common emergencies of small animal medicine. The laboratory exercise will emphasize the equipment and advanced veterinary nursing techniques required in emergency and critical care scenarios of respiratory, neurologic, cardiac, endocrine, and infectious diseases. Support for emergency surgery, blood transfusions and toxin exposure will also be emphasized.
Prerequisites:
VETT 113, VETT 114, VETT 115, VETT 116, VETT 125, and VETT 205 all with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 M 1:00 PM-3:00 PM Dzyban
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 T 9:00 AM-3:00 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 124 Specialty Medicine 3 CR
This is an advanced course in veterinary medicine. Small Animal Medicine I (VETT 111) and II (VETT 118) are prerequisites to this course. In this course, the student will explore the requirements to become a Veterinary Technician Specialist and some of the subdisciplines of veterinary medicine that have not been explored in previous medicine courses. Upon completion of this course, the student will be knowledgeable of the following veterinary medicine specialties: 1) Ophthalmology; 2) Research Medicine; 3) Oncology; 4) Endoscopy; 5) Pediatrics; 6) Geriatric and Hospice Care.
Prerequisites:
VETT, 113, VETT 114, VETT 115, VETT 116, VETT 125, and VETT 205 all with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 M 10:30 AM-12:00 PM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 126 Pharmacology II 3 CR
This is the second veterinary technician pharmacy course in the program, successful completion of Pharmacology I is prerequisite to this course. Emphasis is placed on medical math for specific patient scenarios, common terms and abbreviations of pharmacology and the properties of the specific drug classes for therapy of the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Correct documentation of controlled drugs for DEA compliance is emphasized.
Prerequisites:
VETT 113, VETT 114, VETT 115, VETT 116, VETT 125, and VETT 205 with a C- or higher in each course.
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 M 9:00 AM-10:30 AM Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
VETT 206 Mentorship Lab VI 2 CR
This lab requires students, under the supervision of a mentor or the faculty, to demonstrate competency in an escalating list of skills in the lab and the clinical sites. Each quarter builds upon that quarter's didactic material as well as previous skill sets. Primary skills focus: exotic animals, nutrition and specialized medicine and advanced nursing care.
Prerequisite:
VETT 205 with a C- or higher
Current & Future Offerings:
Spring 2023
04/05/2023-06/23/2023 F Dzyban
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 7
VETT 130 Veterinary Clinical Work Experience 12 CR
This is a laboratory/online hybrid course performed at veterinary clinical sites in the community. The student is assigned a clinical mentor at the site to direct clinical experiences and the development of psychomotor technical skills. The student will also be evaluated on professionalism, communication, animal skills, interactions with clients and veterinary team. There will be online assignments related to the clinical work experience.
Prerequisites:
VETT 121, VETT 122, VETT 123, VETT 124, VETT 126, and VETT 206 all with a C- or higher in each course.

View past class requirements for this program.
Select the year closest to the year started, without going over, to see program requirements for a student who started the program that year:

Program Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be prepared to:

Care for animals in a manner that is safe for both animals and humans;
Promote public health;
Accept the responsibilities of his/her profession, to provide compassionate, competent, ethical care in a professional, conscientious manner;
Pursue lifelong learning to advance his/her knowledge of veterinary care;
Take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE);
Take the state exam and fulfill requirements for licensure as a veterinary technician;
Understand normal anatomy, physiology and behavior of health for the species studied;
Understand and participate in the process of diagnosis, therapy and prevention of animal disease;
Understand the profession of veterinary technician including: occupational safety, public health, client and colleague communication, ethics of animal welfare, and the human-animal bond;
Provide critical thinking skills to reason through clinical situations and take appropriate action;
Provide social interactive skills to facilitate excellent communication with clients and colleagues;
Provide psychomotor skills to facilitate quality, efficient diagnostic and therapeutic interventions;
Provide learning skills and tools to promote learning throughout career and lifetime.

Employment Outlook

Job opportunities in this profession are expected to be excellent. About 85 percent of program graduates are employed within nine months of graduation. The average annual wage in this field is $37,253, with an earning potential of about $41,766 per year.*

Criminal convictions may restrict or prevent student participation with internships and employment in this industry.

Veterinary technicians typically conduct clinical work in a private practice under the supervision of a veterinarian, performing various medical tests in a laboratory setting along with treating medical conditions and diseases in animals.

They may work in research facilities, where they may administer medications orally or topically, prepare samples for laboratory examinations, and record information on an animal’s genealogy, diet, weight, medications, food intake, and clinical signs of pain and distress. They may also work with other scientists in medical-related fields such as gene therapy and cloning. Other opportunities exist in biomedical research, wildlife medicine, the military, livestock management, education, or pharmaceutical sales.

Faculty & Support

Lisa Dzyban

Dr. Dzyban is a veterinarian that is board certified in small animal internal medicine. She has fifteen years clinical experience in general and specialty small animal practice and four years experience as an instructor and specialist consultant. As a veterinary internist, she is adept in ultrasound, endoscopy, parenteral nutrition and chemotherapy techniques. Publications include "Peritoneal Dialysis" in Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy, "Peritoneal Dialysis" in the Journal of Emergency & Critical Care, "Cardiac Tamponade in Cavia Porcellus" in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, and "Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis" in the Journal of Veterinary Radiologists. She is a recipient of the Sue Tidball Award for Creative Humanity and an instructor for the American Red Cross. One of her life goals is to inspire excellence in animal care in veterinarians, veterinary technicians and animal owners.

Degrees and Credentials
Certificate, Professional Technical Education, Washington State
BS, Veterinary Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
DVM, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Diploma, Small Animal Internal Medicine, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine

Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	M	10:00 AM-11:00 AM	Dzyban
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	Th	9:00 AM-2:30 PM	Dzyban

Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	M	11:00 AM-12:00 PM	Dzyban
	01/04/2023-03/24/2023	T	9:00 AM-3:00 PM	Dzyban

Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	Th	9:00 AM-11:00 AM	Dzyban
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	Th	12:00 PM-2:00 PM	Dzyban

Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	M	1:00 PM-3:00 PM	Dzyban
	04/05/2023-06/23/2023	T	9:00 AM-3:00 PM	Dzyban

BTC is open for normal operations

BTC is open for normal operations today and classes will be on time. Please travel safely.

Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician

Veterinary Technician - AAS-T

Vet Tech Helpful Links:

Employment Information

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) v.6

Early Program Course Requirements

Physical Requirements

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 157

Current Students: Learn how to use this page to register for classes

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

Quarter 7

View past class requirements for this program.

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Lisa Dzyban

Degrees and Credentials

Ashley Meadows

Sarah Birch