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Veterinary Technology Program

Carrington College’s Veterinary Technology program prepares graduates to work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian, performing various medical tests and treating animal medical conditions and diseases. Veterinary technologists and technicians perform a variety of clinical, care, and laboratory tasks.(1)

Carrington's Veterinary Technology Hero

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Veterinary Technology Program Details

Program Details

Upon completion of the Veterinary Technology program, graduates will be able to:

  • Outline the essential skills as defined by the AVMA required for the practice of veterinary technology in a wide range of practice settings.
  • Understand procedures to engage in a safe work environment for clients, animals, and staff.
  • Demonstrate ethical behavior consistent with state laws and regulations.
  • Effectively communicate with the veterinary healthcare team and clients.
  • Illustrate preparedness for taking the Veterinary Technology National Licensing Exam (VTNE).

Your education is an investment in your future, and Carrington College is here to help. We offer a variety of financial aid options, including federal, state, and private programs, as well as student loans, grants, and scholarships are available for those who qualify. Each program has different requirements and application instructions. Our team is here to guide you through the options and application process.

Academic Cost

For complete details on current tuition costs, please refer to the Academic Catalog.

Carrington College’s accredited Veterinary Technology program is available at multiple locations in California and culminates in an Associate of Science degree:

Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, 428 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814; 415 506 0234 an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Additional information about accreditation, including the filing of complaints against member institutions, can be found at accjc.org.

For comprehensive information on Carrington College’s accreditation and approvals, visit carrington.edu/accreditation-and-approvals/.

The Veterinary Technology programs at the Ontario, Pleasant Hill, Sacramento, San Jose, San Leandro and Stockton campuses are accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. 1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360; 800 248 2862, http://www.avma.org/professionaldevelopment/education/accreditation/programs/pages/default.aspx.

MISSION

The mission of the Veterinary Technology program is to provide local and global veterinary communities with ethical graduates committed to lifelong learning and professional development. Graduates will have the entry-level skills and knowledge required for contemporary veterinary practice. The core program focus is companion animal practice, but all facets of veterinary medicine, including large animal medicine, biomedical research, and industry-related topics are emphasized. This program prepares graduates to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).

Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)

Carrington College Veterinary Technology Program Outcomes for 2025

Carrington College prepares students to take appropriate certification and licensure exams related to their individual majors. The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

REAL WORLD SKILLS

With many classes to guide you, you’re certain to be prepared for your career.

START YOUR PATH

You can get an Associate Degree in as few as 19 months.

FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS

Conveniently available at multiple campuses across California.

AFFORDABLE TUITION

Affordable tuition varies by program and location.
I liked that Carrington is reputable. Once I found out that they had a Veterinary Technology program, I set up an appointment to discuss everything. After meeting with an advisor that day, I was sold. I enrolled that day, and the rest is history.

Sarah K.

2021 Veterinary Technology Graduate

Veterinary Technician Career Opportunities

Veterinary technicians work under the supervision of licensed veterinarians and may be employed in a variety of settings. They typically work in private clinics and animal hospitals, but may also find opportunities in laboratories, colleges and universities, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and humane societies.(2)

Veterinary technicians may work alongside veterinarians who focus on areas of veterinary medicine such as:

  • Anesthesia and analgesia
  • Behavior
  • Clinical pathology
  • Clinical practice
  • Dentistry
  • Dermatology
  • Emergency and critical care
  • Equine nursing
  • Internal medicine
  • Laboratory animals
  • Nutrition
  • Ophthalmology
  • Surgery
  • Zoological medicine

For more information on the tasks performed by veterinary technicians, check out our vet tech career guide.

 

What Will I Learn?

Surgical Assisting

Anesthesia for Veterinary Technicians

Basic Anatomy and Physiology

Large Animal Medicine

Why Become a Veterinary Technician?

Veterinary technicians work with animals every day while supporting their care, treatment, and overall well-being. The profession offers opportunities to gain experience in a variety of veterinary settings and areas of animal healthcare.

For those interested in animal health and veterinary medicine, veterinary technology provides the opportunity to build the skills and knowledge used in contemporary veterinary practice. You can complete Carrington College’s Veterinary Technology program in as few as 19 months and earn an Associate of Science degree in Veterinary Technology.

Is a Vet Tech Career Right for You?

A vet tech career may be the right choice for you if:

  • You’re passionate about animal care.
  • You’re emotionally resilient and willing to help pet owners deal with sadness and loss.
  • You enjoy a fast-paced work environment.
  • You have a strong interest in biology and science.
  • You enjoy working directly with animals and communicating with pet owners.

Learn about the skills needed to become a veterinary technician.

Inside the Veterinary Technology Program at Carrington College

Carrington College’s Vet Tech programs in California combine classroom work with practical, hands-on labs. Our vet tech laboratories are realistic veterinary work environments that allow you to practice skills such as surgical assisting, taking blood samples, and analyzing samples. Students gain hands-on experience working with animals and participate in clinical and field experiences during an externship.

Veterinary Technology Program FAQs

Sources:

  1. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Veterinary Technologists and Technicians, at www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-technologists-and-technicians.htm#tab-2 (visited May 26, 2026).
  2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Veterinary Technologists and Technicians, at www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinary-technologists-and-technicians.htm#tab-3 (visited May 26, 2026).
  3. O*NET Online. (May 19, 2026). Veterinary Technologists and Technicians. 29-2056.00 – Veterinary Technologists and Technicians. https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-2056.00

*Carrington College prepares students to take appropriate certification and licensure exams related to their individual majors. The College does not guarantee students will successfully pass these exams or be certified or licensed as a result of completing the program.

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