Veterinary Technicians, also known as Vet Techs, are licensed veterinary professionals who have graduated from a veterinary technology program, have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination, have applied for licensure with the state veterinary board or legislative body, and who achieve continuing education hours annually (depending on the state). Vet Techs perform veterinary tasks under various levels of supervision at the direction of a veterinarian. With the exceptions of performing surgery, diagnosing and prescribing, Licensed Veterinary Technicians (LVTs) are trained to perform many of the same skills as Veterinarians and are most similar to Registered Nurses (RN) in the field of human medicine. Vet Techs are veterinary professionals that serve as indispensable members of the veterinary healthcare team and have been formally educated in the science and clinical nursing care of animals.

Southern Union’s Veterinary Technology Program curriculum is a rigorous two-year program aimed at providing an excellent educational foundation for a career as a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Our curriculum will prepare students to enter into the field of veterinary medicine and expose them to the limitless career opportunities within it. The program will require an average of 25 hours per week engaging students in the classroom and laboratory in addition to providing opportunities for clinical hands-on experiences off campus. Upon completion of the program, our students will be awarded an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in Veterinary Technology, should be eligible to apply for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and, upon satisfactory passing of the exam, state licensure as a Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).

Our Vet Tech Program is one of three programs in Alabama and is the only on-campus program in the State. On-campus paired with off-campus clinical site learning uniquely prepares students to be qualified veterinary professionals by the time they graduate.

Program graduates will be equipped with the skills and education necessary to be leaders in practice management, animal behavior, veterinary technology education, specialized and general veterinary practice, companion and farm animal medicine, wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, zoo and shelter medicine, industry sales and business, research, military and government service, public health and safety and beyond.