A postsecondary veterinary technology program is a requirement for veterinary technologists and technicians. Technicians typically require a 2-year associate’s degree, while technologists typically require a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Typically, depending on the requirements of the state in which they work, both technologists and technicians must pass a credentialing exam in order to become registered, licensed, or certified.
What is a veterinary technologist?
Veterinary technologists are specialists who can work in both research and animal care facilities. These specialists typically carry out tasks that are comparable to those of veterinary technicians, but they are typically also qualified to work in a laboratory environment. As a result, veterinary technologists working in animal clinics can perform tests alongside scientists or researchers in addition to providing nursing care alongside a licensed veterinarian.
What is a veterinary technician?
The health of pets, farm animals, and animals housed in zoos, sanctuaries, and shelters is greatly promoted by veterinary technicians, who are specialists in animal science and care. In clinics, these people frequently perform nursing duties in conjunction with qualified veterinarians. They could carry out health examinations, diagnostic procedures, and immediate first aid. Under the direction of a veterinarian, they may also give medications or vaccinations.
Veterinary technician vs. technologist
Due to the similarities in their job responsibilities, working conditions, and pay, veterinary technicians and technologists may appear to have similar roles, but there are some aspects that set these two professions apart. To help you better understand these roles, here is a summary of the main distinctions and affinities between technicians and technologists:
Job duties
The roles of veterinary technicians and technologists frequently overlap, but technologists may be able to handle more difficult tasks and take on extra responsibilities. Many technologists follow the instructions of veterinarians, scientists, or researchers while working in a lab setting. The following are some typical responsibilities of a veterinary technician:
Licensed veterinarians frequently supervise veterinary technicians as they carry out a range of diagnostic procedures. Additionally, these professionals frequently interact with pet owners directly while working in animal clinics. Here are some examples of the tasks technicians might perform on a daily basis:
Training and education requirements
Veterinary technologists and technicians have different training and education requirements. Candidates typically need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology or a related field in order to become veterinary technologists. Candidates may be able to specialize their knowledge and skills in systemic thinking and research through a four-year degree program. From here, aspiring technologists can pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to earn their certification and become licensed in the state where they plan to work.
Comparatively, aspirants to become veterinary technicians usually pursue an associate’s degree in the field. Although some states do distinguish between credentialed veterinary technicians and technologists, veterinary technician candidates can pursue certification after earning their associate degree in the same manner as veterinary technologists. Consequently, despite the fact that licensing requirements for technologists and technicians are frequently similar, these professionals typically have varying levels of education.
Work environment
Veterinary technologists and technicians can work in similar environments. Both types of professionals can work in zoos, aquariums, veterinary offices, animal shelters, and wildlife refuges. Additionally, both of these professionals are frequently in direct contact with animals on a regular basis and work full-time jobs. Due to their level of education and specialized training, however, veterinary technologists may also work in a laboratory or research environment, whereas technicians may not have this opportunity.
Therefore, depending on the preferences of their employers, technicians and technologists may assume the same duties and work in an interchangeable capacity when working in similar environments. But in a laboratory setting, technologists frequently have duties connected to particular research projects or initiatives that technicians may not encounter in their roles.
Salary and job outlook
Vet Technician And Technologist Careers Overview
FAQ
What type of vet tech makes the most money?
Emergency com, where the national average pay for veterinary technicians working in emergency and critical care at organizations like Ethos Veterinary Health was $91,979.
What is a step below a vet?
Last but not least, the position of Veterinary Technologist is the one below the licensed veterinarian. To become a veterinary technologist, you must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree. You’ll need to find internships or other types of hands-on programs, just like with technician programs.
Is it better to be a vet tech or a vet?
Veterinarians earn significantly more money than veterinarian technicians because they undergo much more training and have much greater responsibilities. A career as a veterinary technician can be a stepping stone to one as a veterinarian, according to Careers in Healthcare.
What is the difference between veterinary science and veterinary technology?
A list of accredited veterinary colleges may be found here. You’ll receive a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree after completing veterinary school. On the other hand, veterinary technicians are required to complete a minimum two-year associate of applied science program.
