Mar 28, 2024  
2021-22 Gaston College Catalog 
    
2021-22 Gaston College Catalog [THIS CATALOG IS OUT-OF-DATE. USE THE CURRENT CATALOG TO FIND CURRENT PROGRAMS.]

Veterinary Medical Technology, A.A.S. (A45780)


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The Veterinary Medical Technology (Vet Tech) Curriculum prepares the graduate to assist veterinarians in preparing animals, equipment, and medications for examination and surgery; collecting specimens; performing laboratory, radiographic, anesthetic, dental procedures; assisting in surgery; and providing proper husbandry of animals and their environment. Course work includes instruction in veterinary anatomy, nutrition, parasitology, pathology, physiology, radiology, terminology, zoology, office practices, laboratory techniques, dentistry, and small and large animal clinical practices. Graduates of accredited programs may be eligible to take state and national examinations. Graduates may be employed in veterinary clinics; diagnostic, research, or pharmaceutical laboratories; zoos; academic institutions; or other areas associated with animal care.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates will:

  1. Prepare animals and equipment for examination and surgery.
  2. Safely prepare and administer medications in a veterinary setting.
  3. Correctly collect specimens for laboratory analysis.
  4. Safely perform laboratory, radiographic, anesthetic and dental procedures in a veterinary setting.
  5. Competently assist the veterinarian in surgical procedures.
  6. Provide proper husbandry of animals and their environment.
  7. Demonstrate an understanding of common veterinary diseases and diagnostic procedures.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge of veterinary regulatory issues and veterinary office procedures.
Curriculum Information

The Vet Tech Program is a two-year, full time, six (6) semester course of study (71 semester credit hours) leading to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The program is designed to provide both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a professional career as a veterinary technician.

Course Selection Information

Students, to help you progress in your degree program, take prerequisite courses along with English and Math early in your academic career. This will align you for greater success in completing your program of study. Click on the courses listed below to ensure you are aware of prerequisites. The order shown below under the student program priorities is a guide.

Student Program Priorities:

  1. CHM 130 CHM 130A  

Admissions Requirements


Students applying for admission to this program MUST meet all Gaston College admission requirements for General Admission to the College. In addition, students will need to demonstrate college readiness for English and math as exhibited through the college placement test, a placement test waiver, or completion of the acceptable coursework. Your academic advisor will be able to assist you in determining your college readiness. 

For students interested in applying to this program at Gaston College, please note that there is limited enrollment and participates in a selective admission criteria process to select the most qualified applicants for admission. Students will need to make an appointment with their Admissions Specialist/Advisor in order to review admission requirements and to verify if the student has met selective admission criteria in order to submit an application by the deadline. Students interested in participating in the selective admission process for this program can find additional information and program admission requirements under the subheading “limited enrollment/selective admission” in the College Catalog. 

Lab/Clinical Fee


Level 1: $6 per lab hour for Art, Business, Health, Languages, and Math
Level 2: $12 per lab hour for Computer Information, and Natural Sciences
Level 3: $18 per lab hour for Engineering and Industrial, Central Sterile Processing, Health & Fitness Science/Physical Education, Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technology, and Nurse Aide
Level 4: $24 per lab hour for Cosmetology, Esthetics, Veterinary Medical Technology, Practical Nursing, EMS, Associate Degree Nursing, and Health Information Technology
Malpractice Insurance (required for nursing and allied health services programs students): $13 per year

FIRST YEAR


SECOND YEAR


Total Program Hours: 71


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