Several veterinary technology schools operate in Missouri.
A veterinary technologist or technician is an assistant to a veterinarian, much as a nurse is an assistant to a doctor. Veterinary technician training is two years long; a veterinary technologist goes through four years of training. Though traditional jobs are available at private veterinary clinics or animal hospitals, technologists can also find jobs in research facilities. Students can learn this craft at several Missouri colleges.
Crowder College
Crowder College puts students through an intense course in veterinary technology to earn their associate's degree in applied science. Students have many opportunities to work in a hands-on environment thanks to the college's barns, 300 acres of farmland, dog kennel and small animal kennel. Students also learn work with surgery techniques, lab diagnostics and X-rays and in field care. All animals used for training have been abandoned or are obtained from shelters; once students have rehabilitated them, they are adopted in the community. Financial aid is available through the school and from federal and state sources.
Jefferson College
Jefferson College offers associate's degrees for those wishing to become a veterinary assistant or veterinary technician. Students work both in practice and studying animal health. Admission to the veterinary technology program is competitive. Jefferson College has several locations in Missouri. School-specific scholarships are available, in addition to state and federal financial aid.
Maple Woods Community College
Maple Woods Community College's associate in applied science program trains students in anesthesia, dentistry, surgical assistance, nursing care for animals and lab work. Students learn technical skills that can be used in research and clinical facilities. The college offers students the opportunity to work with several animals over the course of the program and encourages students to work part time in a veterinary setting for additional training. Federal and state financial aid is available, as are several scholarships through the college.
Sanford Brown College
Sanford Brown College offers an associate of applied science degree at its campuses in Fenton and St. Peters. Students learn to assist with surgeries, take patient histories and communicate empathetically with pet owners. Students are eligible for federal and state financial aid. Many campuses also have scholarships available. Those interested in the program can apply online or in person.
Tags: applied science, Jefferson College, Students learn, veterinary technology, associate applied, associate applied science