Washington State has one the best veterinary medicine colleges in the United States, according to its website, which credits the school's high-tech equipment and renowned scientific research program for its reputation. Students can choose to pursue their studies in one of four departments: Veterinary Clinical Sciences; Veterinary and Comparative Anatomy, Pharmacology and Physiology; Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology; and the School for Global Animal Health. WSU also has the only veterinary college in the state that offers a four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree, along with a host of graduate and postgraduate studies.
Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine
Bustad Hall, Room 110
Grimes Way
Pullman, WA 99164
509-335-9515
wsu.edu
Pierce College offers a two-year associate's degree in veterinary technology, which prepares students for the exams required to obtain a license as a veterinary technician. Applicants must have completed college courses in biology, chemistry, algebra, English and medical terminology, have at least a 2.0 GPA and submit an application, references, Health Occupations Basic Evaluation Test scores and proof of experience in a vet hospital. The program begins each fall and offers small class sizes, affordable admission and transfer credits.
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
9401 Far West Drive SW
Lakewood, WA 98498
253-964-6708
pierce.ctc.edu
Yakima Valley offers a two-year associate's degree in applied science in veterinary technology that provides students the clinical and laboratory experience needed to pass exams to become a licensed veterinary technician. Students use hospital equipment, practice medical record-keeping, assist with surgical procedures and help administer medications. Prerequisites include an application with recommendations; a high school diploma or GED; proven knowledge of basics in biology, chemistry, math, reading and English; and at least 50 hours of experience assisting a veterinarian.
Yakima Valley Community College
S. 16th Ave. & Nob Hill Blvd.
Yakima, WA 98902
509-574-4759
yvcc.edu
Carrington College, formerly Apollo College as of July 1, 2010, offers classes in various aspects of medical, dental and health care. The veterinary assistant's program teaches skills that vet assistants will need to care for animals under a veterinarian's supervision. Studies include treating illnesses and injuries, animal nutrition, routine care and animal behavior.
Carrington College
10102 E. Knox, Suite 200
Spokane, WA 99206
509-532-8888
apollocollege.edu
PMI is a medical training college that offers certificates and associate's degrees in various areas of medical, veterinary and dental care, in addition to two online bachelor's degree programs. Its two Washington locations both offer an associate's degree for veterinary technicians and a veterinary assistants program. The more advanced technician program takes approximately 16 months to complete, compared to the estimated 9 months for the assistants program.
Pima Medical Institute
555 S. Renton Village Place, Suite 110
Renton, WA 98057
425-228-9600
pmi.edu
Pima Medical Institute
9709 Third Ave. NE, Suite 400
Seattle, WA 98115
206-322-6100
pmi.edu