Veterinary Technology
Program Overview
The Jefferson College Veterinary Technology Program is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), ensuring it meets the highest educational standards to prepare students for successful careers in veterinary technology.
This comprehensive program blends college-level general education with in-depth courses in animal health, science, and clinical practice, equipping students with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to excel as registered veterinary technicians.
For more details, view the Veterinary Technology Student Handbook.
The Veterinary Technology Program works with local animal shelters in Jefferson County to provide quality care and prepare animals for lives in new loving homes. If you're interested in learning more about the animals we currently have up for adoption, please check out our page on Petfinder to see everyone we're working with!
Degree Information
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree is designed for entry-level employment through practical and theoretical courses. Please see individual degree plans listed below for specific degree/certificate requirements.
Academic Plan
The Academic Plan is a semester-by-semester plan for the full-time student. Part-time students should work with an advisor to customize the map to fit individual needs.
Course Guides
Jefferson College Institutional Course Guides (ICGs) are found in the Simple Syllabus - Syllabus Library AND/OR within your Canvas class page via the Simple Syllabus link in the Course Navigation Menu.
Career Opportunities
A career as a veterinary technician offers diverse opportunities, promising job growth, and the chance to deeply impact animal healthcare. It requires a solid educational foundation, licensing, and various specialized skills essential for supporting veterinarians in clinical settings.
Veterinary technicians play a crucial role in animal healthcare by assisting veterinarians in various medical procedures. They are involved in tasks such as preparing for surgeries, conducting diagnostic tests, and providing post-operative care. Their duties also include patient monitoring, administering medications, and educating pet owners about animal care
The demand for veterinary technicians is robust, with a projected job growth of 21% from 2022 to 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics15. This growth is attributed to the increasing emphasis on preventive care and advanced medical procedures for animals, highlighting the essential role vet techs play in veterinary practices.
Average VTNE Pass Rate, Graduation Rate, and Job Placement Rate for 2025
Veterinary Technology Admission Procedures
- General Application – Submit a Jefferson College Application for Admission and list Veterinary Technology as your major. Apply online or via the Office of Admissions in Student Services.
- Supplemental Application – Complete the Veterinary Technology Supplemental Application and return it to:
Jefferson College, Veterinary Technology
1000 Viking Drive, Hillsboro, MO 63050
or email to dnevois@jeffco.edu. - Application Fee – Pay the $30 Veterinary Technology application fee at the Student Center cashier or by phone at (636) 481-3123. Include the receipt with your supplemental application.
- Prerequisites – High school-level biology and chemistry with labs or college-level biology, completed within the last 5 years with a grade of C or better.
- Transcripts – Submit official high school and college transcripts, if applicable.
- Clinical Experience – Complete 16 hours of veterinary shadowing or employment at a practice with at least one Registered Veterinary Technician. Submit the observation form from the supplemental packet by March 31, 2027.
- Recommendations – Submit two professional or academic recommendation letters to the Veterinary Technology department.
Application Timeline
- General applications: Accepted anytime
- Supplemental Applications: October 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027
- Admissions Committee reviews complete applications in April. Only 36 students are admitted annually. Applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision.
