Veterinary Technology

Beautiful female veterinarian examining a young Maine Coon cat.

Veterinary Technology At MWCC

Becoming a veterinary technician is a deeply rewarding career path that allows you to turn your passion for animals into a profession. Each day, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring animals receive the care they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

A Professional Path In Animal Healthcare

Veterinary technicians are the backbone of modern veterinary medicine. They combine medical knowledge, technical expertise, and compassionate care to support both patients and clients. At Mount Wachusett Community College, our Veterinary Technology Program prepares students to enter this challenging and rewarding profession with confidence.

Veterinary Surgeon working on computer

Accreditation And Certification

The Veterinary Technology Program at MWCC received accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) on September 13, 2019.  Graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). Upon passing the VTNE, individuals may apply for credentialing through their state’s veterinary technician association.

Sample Job Titles                                                                                

  • Credentialed Veterinary Technician (CrVT): Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT), or Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

  • Veterinary Technician / Veterinary Nurse

  • Veterinary Laboratory Technician

  • Specialty Technician

Two professional veterinarians take a blood for test of cat of the breed Maine Coon in veterinary clinic. Health of pet. Care of animal. Pet checkup, tests and vaccination in vet office.

Career Outlook

The career outlook for veterinary technicians is strong, with employment projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034—much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates into more than 14,300 new positions opening each year nationwide.

As more households welcome pets and spending on animal care continues to rise, the demand for veterinary technicians is expected to remain strong. Advances in veterinary medicine and expanded treatment options will further contribute to job growth in the decade ahead.

Veterinarian-image

Hands-On Veterinary Technology Training At MWCC

Veterinarian and Technician Managing Dog on Operating Table

What Can I Do With A Veterinary Technology Degree?

A degree in Veterinary Technology opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in animal healthcare and science. Most veterinary technicians work in animal hospitals, specialty practices, or private clinics, where they provide essential nursing care and technical support under the supervision of licensed veterinarians.

Graduates may also pursue positions in research laboratories, assisting scientists and ensuring the humane treatment and welfare of animals used in studies. Other opportunities can be found in emergency and specialty practices, public health, shelter medicine, wildlife rehabilitation, and pharmaceutical or diagnostic companies.

In addition, veterinary technicians can focus on specialized disciplines such as anesthesia, dentistry, nutrition, behavior, or emergency and critical care by pursuing advanced training and specialty certification.

Wherever their path leads, veterinary technicians are in demand for their expertise, compassion, and ability to bridge the gap between animal patients, their owners, and the veterinary team.

Big and small furry friends at the vet

What Do Veterinary Technicians Do?

Veterinary technicians work side by side with veterinarians to deliver high-quality medical care. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Conducting laboratory tests such as urinalysis, blood counts, and cytology.

  • Collecting and processing blood and tissue samples.

  • Preparing and administering vaccines and medications.

  • Monitoring anesthesia and assisting during surgery.

  • Performing diagnostic imaging.

  • Maintaining medical equipment and sterilizing surgical instruments.

Technicians are also trained to observe, evaluate, and report on patient status, ensuring that animals receive the best possible care at every stage of treatment.

Veterinarian life

What Makes A Great Veterinary Technician?

Successful veterinary technicians bring together a unique blend of skills and personal qualities, including:

  • Compassion and empathy – caring for patients and supporting clients through difficult moments.

  • Technical competence – performing diagnostics, anesthesia monitoring, imaging, and laboratory work with precision.

  • Communication and teamwork – collaborating effectively with veterinarians, staff, and pet owners.

  • Critical thinking – recognizing subtle changes in patient health and responding quickly to evolving situations.

  • Professionalism and resilience – thriving in fast-paced, sometimes emotionally demanding environments.

Veterinarian-image

Why Choose MWCC?

  • AVMA-accredited program recognized for quality and rigor

  • Small class sizes with dedicated faculty support

  • Affordable and accessible with Free Community College for eligible Massachusetts residents, with financial aid and scholarship opportunities for all students

  • Hands-on training through labs and externships with real-world experience

  • Strong community connections with veterinary hospitals, research facilities, and animal care organizations

  • Experienced Faculty – learn from professionals with years of veterinary practice.

Veterinary Technology Program Outcomes

 

  • Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE within one year of graduation = 29
  • Three Year VTNE Pass = 68.97%
  • Annual job placement = 100% (2025)
  • Annual graduation rate = 50% (2023)
Veterinarian and Technician Managing Dog on Operating Table
Two professional veterinarians take a blood for test of cat of the breed Maine Coon in veterinary clinic. Health of pet. Care of animal. Pet checkup, tests and vaccination in vet office.
Veterinary Team Caring for a Cat in a Clinical Environment

Affordable, Hands-On Training

Our Veterinary Technology associate degree program is a cost-effective way to gain the essential skills needed to care for animals while receiving hands-on training with real patients. Please note: this is a selective admissions program and requires additional application components.

Testimonials

Your Journey Starts Here

EntelaRoba-e1505217449638
“I feel comfortable and well prepared with what I learned at the Mount, and I’m proud to say that I graduated from this program.”
EntelaRoba-e1505217449638

Entela Roba

Physical Therapy Assistant, Class Of 2010

0115-1-scaled-1-cropped
“Mount Wachusett Community College pushed me out of my comfort zone or, should I say, gently nudged me with their guidance and assistance in completing my first degree at the age of 61. I am not your typical undergraduate. I am not the typical age, not the typical student, and I certainly did not take the typical amount of time to complete this degree.”
0115-1-scaled-1-cropped

Paula Morgan

Liberal Arts & Sciences, Class Of 2024

Elzbieta-Solimeno-Dental-Assisting-Student
“The Dental Assisting program at MWCC offers a hands-on training by faculty in the dental field. The professors are very helpful and knowledgeable, and the clinic is beautiful. If you enjoy helping people, wanting to make a difference in patients’ oral health and working in a professional environment then I really recommend Dental Assisting program at MWCC.”
Elzbieta-Solimeno-Dental-Assisting-Student

Elzbieta Solimeno

Dental, Class Of 2019

William-Boudreau-e1722010007953
“MassReconnect has helped me to pay for the college education that I never thought I’d earn, and show my four boys that its never too late.”
William-Boudreau-e1722010007953

William Boudreau

Engineering Physics

Ricardo-Scarello-cropped
“For those who are battling a disability, MWCC encouraged me and gave me a solid foundation to achieve my educational and career goals. There were times that I felt like giving up, but I kept moving forward and soon I will start a PhD program. It is all up to you.”
Ricardo-Scarello-cropped

Ricardo Scarello

Computer Information Systems, Class Of 2007

mackenzie-christensen-e1516390578539
“I am currently working towards my bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music Online and would not have been able to do it without the knowledge and skills I learned at MWCC.”
mackenzie-christensen-e1516390578539

Mackenzie Christensen

Media Arts & Technology, Class Of 2017

Ready To Take The Next Step?

Your journey starts with a single step. We have all the information you need to move forward with confidence. Reach out today to learn more about life at The Mount and how to get started.