College Diploma - Veterinary Technology

Program Overview

The Veterinary Technology program at NAIT prepares students to become vital members of the animal health-care team. This program focuses on providing nursing care, performing diagnostic procedures, and engaging in client interactions to assist veterinarians in diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases in animals. Students will gain hands-on experience in both small and large animal practices, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle a variety of situations in the veterinary field.

Program Structure

The Veterinary Technology program is designed to be completed in 2 years of full-time study. The program structure includes:

• In-person classes held on weekdays during the daytime.
• Hands-on training in NAIT’s Animal Health Clinic, where students will practice basic veterinary services.
• Opportunities for work experience through a 15-week paid co-op position for students in good academic standing.
• Exposure to a variety of animal care situations, including lab work, anesthesia, and medical and surgical nursing.

This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in real-world settings, preparing them for successful careers in veterinary technology.

Featured Experiences

• Hands-on training in NAIT’s Animal Health Clinic, providing basic veterinary services for dogs and cats.
• Participation in a 15-week paid co-op position, allowing students to gain valuable workplace experience while earning a salary.
• Involvement in the Canine Animal Blood Bank project, which has been providing necessary blood products for dogs in need of transfusions for over 10 years.
• Field experiences that include traveling to farms and animal hospitals to treat a variety of animals beyond just dogs and cats.

Career Options

Graduates of the Veterinary Technology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

• Veterinary Technician: Assists veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals, performing lab tests, and providing nursing care.
• Animal Health Technologist: Works in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or research facilities, focusing on animal care and health management.
• Wildlife Rehabilitator: Cares for injured or orphaned wildlife, providing medical treatment and rehabilitation to return them to their natural habitat.
• Laboratory Animal Technician: Manages and cares for laboratory animals, ensuring their health and well-being during research studies.
• Veterinary Practice Manager: Oversees the operations of a veterinary clinic, managing staff, finances, and client relations.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a significant impact in the field of animal health care.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.