The associate's degree program in veterinary technology at Argosy University consists of 69 credit hours and can be completed in just under two years on a full-time basis. Applicants must meet minimum score requirements on the ACT or SAT, along with Argosy University's entrance exam. Prospective students submit an essay, high school transcripts and a high school diploma or GED. The curriculum includes courses in medical terminology, English and algebra, along with training in animal care, veterinary diseases, pharmacology, anesthesiology, and small and large animal medicine. Upon completion of required courses, students are placed at a veterinary clinic for a three-month internship. Elective courses are also available in emergency care, veterinary dentistry, animal behavior and wildlife handling.
Argosy University, Twin Cities
1515 Central Parkway
Eagan, MN 55121
651-846-2882
argosy.edu
Ridgewater College is home to Minnesota's longest-running public vet tech program, according to the college's website. Students are taught by two licensed veterinarians and seven veterinary technicians. They have access to surgical and X-ray facilities, a dental lab and a kennel. Vet tech students work with small, large and exotic animals and can complete an internship at a veterinary clinic, zoo or laboratory. The program is open to high school graduates who have taken biology, algebra and chemistry with a minimum grade of C. Prior experience with animals is a plus, and applicants should spend one week working with or observing a vet tech at a veterinary clinic. The curriculum includes training in veterinary nursing, anesthesia, kennel management and pharmacology.
Ridgewater College
Willmar Campus
2101 15th Avenue NW
Willmar, MN 56201
320-222-5200
ridgewater.edu
The veterinary technician program at Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) can be completed in two years and includes core courses in surgical and animal nursing, pharmacology, animal nutrition, anatomy, pathology and diagnostic imaging. During the first semester, students take courses in writing and humanities as a prerequisite to core courses. RCTC admits 36 students to the veterinary technician program each year, and acceptance is dependent on successful completion of the prerequisites.
Rochester Community and Technical College
851 30th Avenue SE
Rochester, MN 55904-4999
507-285-7210
rctc.edu
Students in the Globe University/Minnesota School of Business associate's program in veterinary technology begin working with animals during their first quarter. They are trained in a variety of skills, such as performing diagnostic tests, assisting in surgery on small animals and horses, and administering vaccinations to cats and dogs. Students develop these skills while taking courses in animal anatomy, veterinary pharmacology, imaging and anesthesiology. Prospective students meet in person or online with a Globe University admissions representative, who will assist them in the application process.
Globe University/Minnesota School of Business
8089 Globe Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
651-714-7360
msbcollege.edu