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The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in the Veterinary Medical Technology Program (VMTP) is designed for students who wish to become certified veterinary technicians (CVTs). The program combines classroom learning with hands-on laboratory and clinical experience. The VMTP offers both full and part time options as well as day and evening sections. All vet tech courses must be completed within 4 years of the date of entry into the program.
The Joliet Junior College Veterinary Medical Technology Program is fully accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Upon completion of the VMTP, graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) for licensure in Illinois. The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) administers the examination. Certification requirements may vary from state to state. The A.A.S. in veterinary technology is not intended to meet the requirements for application to veterinary school to become a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM).
The VMTP has special admissions criteria and limited enrollment. After admission to JJC, the student must also apply to the veterinary technology program. Please view our Admissions criteria (under the Health & Occupational Science Students section).
What Will I Learn?
Through a combination of classroom learning, hands-on laboratories, and two externship experiences in veterinary medicine, students receive a solid foundation in the areas of Veterinary Nursing, Anatomy & Physiology, Behavior Analysis, Pharmacology, Clinical Pathology, Surgical Methods & Anesthesia, and Client Education.
Common responsibilities of a CVT include:
- Taking client histories and performing physical exams
- Diagnostic testing
- Dispensing and administering medication and vaccines
- Performing medical procedures to prepare patients for surgery
- Monitoring anesthesia, surgical assisting and recovering patients
- Performing dental prophylaxes on anesthetized patients
- Nursing hospitalized patients
- Client education, training and supervision, and medical record keeping
What is Unique About Our Veterinary Technology Program?
The Veterinary Medical Technology Program is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). After completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the national certification exam.
What Degree Will I Receive?
What are my Career Opportunities?
An AAS in Veterinary Medical Technology and certification through VTNE testing will provide unique career opportunities, including:
- Private practice
- Humane societies & animal control facilities
- Veterinary medical technology programs
- Medical research & biomedical facilities
- Governmental agencies & food safety inspection
- Diagnostic laboratories & laboratory assistants
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Veterinary supply & pet food manufacturers
- Wildlife rehabilitation & zoological institutions
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VTNE 3 Year Pass Rate
July 1, 2017 - June 30, 2020 Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE 57 Three-year VTNE pass percentage 92% -
Sponsor an animal
Give a gift and support JJC Vet Tech animals in need.
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Department Advisors
Dr. Scott Keller
815-280-2775
skeller@jjc.eduMs. Eileen McKee, MS, CVT
815-280-2752
emckee@jjc.edu -
VTNE Application Instructions
Review the JJC Vet Tech VTNE Application Instructions here:
Adopt a Pet
Cats and dogs from local animal shelters are brought to campus each semester, where they are cared for by vet tech students and faculty, until they are adopted out to good homes.
