Veterinary Technician Program Information
VETERINARY
TECHNICIAN
PROGRAM
For general program information call or email:
School of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology
Madison Area Technical College
1701 Wright Street
Madison, WI 53704
ASET@madisoncollege.edu
1 (800) 628-6282 ext 6800 or (608) 246-6800
Student Development Center
Academic Advisors
Room 159AA
(608) 246-6076
For more specific information about program content, course content, or
customized training programs call or email:
Dr. CC Sheldon, Program Director
(608) 246-6763
csheldon@madisoncollege.edu
NOTE: The contents of this booklet are provided solely for informational purposes and were accurate at
the time of printing. Terms, conditions of service, course location and duration, and eligibility criteria,
however, may be altered from time to time. Madison Area Technical College reserves the right to make
changes in curricula, rules, and fees whenever such changes are deemed necessary. Nothing written or
implied in this brochure is to be considered binding.
Last Updated January 2013
1
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
2
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1)
Introduction .................................................................................................5
2)
Overview …What is a Veterinary Technician?
a.
b.
c.
d.
3)
What is Veterinary Technician training?...................................................6
What are the objectives of this training? ..................................................7
What are the duties of a Veterinary Technician?. ....................................7
Is the Veterinary Technician career field for both men and women? .......8
Qualifications for the Program…. Are you ready?
a. What High School courses are required? ................................................9
b. Is animal experience necessary? .............................................................9
c. Can I take Veterinary Technician training online or on a part-time
basis? ....................................................................................................10
4)
Finances….What are the Costs?
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
5)
What is the tuition? ................................................................................11
Is Financial Aid available? .....................................................................11
Can I hold a part-time job while attending Madison College? ................12
Can I live at home and/or commute to school? ......................................13
What about housing? .............................................................................13
Applying to the Program….How and When?
a. How do I apply for the Veterinary Technician program? ........................14
b. Can I start the Program in spring or fall? ...............................................15
c. Can I be accepted for the Program if I don’t live in Wisconsin? .............15
d. Are there any articulation agreements with 4-year colleges? ...............15
e. How soon will I know if I have been accepted into the program?...........16
f. What are the admission guidelines for the Veterinary Technician
program? .................................................................................................17
g. Checklist for Veterinary Technician program application .......................19
6)
College credits…How do they transfer?
a. Can I transfer credits from other institutions of higher learning? ............20
b. What other training or experience can receive credit? ...........................20
c. Can I transfer credits from the Veterinary Technician program towards
a degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine? .......................................21
3
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
7)
Acceptance to the Program…..What’s next?
a.
b.
c.
d,
e.
f.
g.
8)
What is the Veterinary Technician Curriculum? .....................................22
What are the courses about? .................................................................23
Can I take college transfer courses instead?..........................................26
Are there related courses that can be taken?.........................................26
Who teaches the Veterinary Technician classes? .................................26
When do the classes meet?...................................................................26
Are uniforms required? ..........................................................................27
Internship….What is it?
a. What about summer internship - Do I get paid? .....................................28
b. What are the requirements for the Veterinary Technician
Internship? .............................................................................................28
9)
Completing the Program….What’s in the future?
a. Are Veterinary Technicians “licensed”? .................................................30
b. Will MATC assist me in locating a position as a Certified Veterinary
Technician when I graduate? .................................................................31
10). Miscellaneous
a. Is the Veterinary Technician program at Madison College accredited? .31
b. What other agricultural programs are offered by Madison College? ......32
11) Where can I get more information? .........................................................32
12) Appendix A: Certification for Veterinary Technicians ...........................34
4
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Introduction
THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM
As you plan to start your college life, you are naturally concerned with what the
future may hold for you. You, your parents, counselors, and others have probably
spent some time discussing the costs involved in pursuing a college education, the
program of study you might take and, most importantly, your hopes and plans after you
receive your training. Making plans and decisions along these lines should include a
consideration of all factors. This booklet has been designed to help provide information
to you about the Veterinary Technician program at Madison Area Technical College.
Please let us know if there is any other information we can provide.
We urge you to read this booklet completely before you
apply for the Veterinary Technician program.
This will be helpful to you after you are accepted as a student. It is also suggested that, if
possible, you visit with a veterinary technician in your home area.
*The names Madison College (MC) and MATC are abbreviations for Madison Area Technical
College throughout this booklet.
5
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Overview – What is a Veterinary Technician?
A. WHAT IS VETERINARY TECHNICIAN TRAINING?
The Veterinary Technician Program at Madison College is a two-year associate
degree program in applied science conducted under the direction of licensed
veterinarians and certified veterinary technicians as well as instructors in the General
Studies areas. It emphasizes hands-on animal skills and the technical information
necessary to perform certain duties under the supervision of a veterinarian. The
courses were developed to follow the guidelines of the American and Wisconsin
Veterinary Medical Associations. This program is accredited by the American Veterinary
Medical Association (AVMA). At the end of two semesters of training, students are
required to spend the summer interning under the supervision of a Wisconsin licensed
veterinarian for 288 or more hours in a period of eight or more weeks. This program
was developed and is advised in cooperation with a committee of the Wisconsin
Veterinary Medical Association. The Board of the Wisconsin Technical College System
(WTCS) has approved it as an associate degree program.
Veterinary medicine needs well-trained personnel who are as capable as nurses,
surgery and laboratory technicians as well as dental hygienists in human medicine.
Well-trained veterinary technicians can function in a great number of areas in today's
active veterinary practices including the laboratory, anesthetic monitoring, patient
restraint, and intensive care. Responsibilities include administration and maintenance
of anesthesia, use of monitoring equipment (ECG, pulse oximetry, blood pressure, etc.),
administration of fluids, surgical assistance, post-operative observation, post-operative
splints and bandages, radiology, performing laboratory test procedures and in-hospital
treatment. Technicians also function in the reception and examination rooms taking
histories, filling out records, explaining medication usage and instructing the owner
about follow-up examinations and treatment. The list of duties could go on and will
grow longer as the technician becomes more experienced.
6
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
B. WHAT ARE THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS TRAINING?
3.
5.
10.
11.
12.
1.
Participate in facility management utilizing traditional and electronic
media and appropriate Veterinary Medical Terminology and abbreviations.
2.
Communicate in a professional manner in all formats, written, oral,
nonverbal and electronic.
Read and follow protocols and procedures accurately and within time
constraints.
4.
Work as a team member demonstrating initiative, and applying
time and stress management techniques.
Identify and manage stressful and emotional work situations.
6.
Follow and uphold applicable laws and the veterinary technician’s
ethical code to provide high quality care to patients.
7.
Safely and effectively administer prescribed drugs to patients, and
accurately dispense and explain drugs to clients.
8.
Demonstrate and perform patient assessment techniques,
husbandry, nutrition, therapeutic and dentistry techniques in a variety of
animal species (including laboratory animal species, companion animals,
and food animals).
9.
Safely and effectively manage patients in all phases of anesthetic
procedures, as well as safely and effectively select, utilize and maintain
anesthetic delivery and monitoring instruments and equipment.
Demonstrate and integrate all aspects of patient management for
common surgical procedures in a variety of animal species.
Properly package, handle and store specimens for laboratory analysis,
properly carry out analysis of laboratory specimens. (Blood, urine, feces,
tissues, skin scrapes, discharge, body fluids).
Safely and effectively produce diagnostic images.
The purpose of this training is not to prepare individuals as veterinarians or to train
them to service their own animals. If an individual aspires to be a "Certified Veterinary
Technician" instead of someone who may work with animals without specific skills, it is
absolutely necessary that he/she develop certain traits and abilities to make it so.
These goals are the primary objectives of this program.
C. WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A VETERINARY TECHNICIAN?
Individuals with this type of specialized training assist veterinarians to prepare
animals for diagnosis and care for those under treatment for disease or injury.
Preventive medicine, precise laboratory tests used in diagnosis and proper care of
animals are routine tasks. Typical duties include animal restraint, sterilizing surgical
instruments and equipment using germicides and an autoclave, administering
anesthetics, giving medications and performing prescribed nursing care under the
7
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
direction of a veterinarian, assisting with radiology, grooming, preparing animals for
and assisting in surgery, performing dental prophylaxis, and assisting in the office
receiving clients, answering the telephone, making appointments, keeping inventories,
and accepting payment on client accounts.
D.
IS THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN CAREER FIELD FOR BOTH
MEN AND WOMEN?
Both men and women with specialized training are in demand for the rapidly
growing veterinary technician career field. In the beginning, most students in this
program were women. However, more and more men are now enrolling.
Veterinarians, producers of laboratory animals, research institutions, medical centers,
pharmaceutical manufacturers, and others need specially trained people to care for
animals and to perform laboratory and clerical tasks. Students graduating in this
curriculum can generally expect rapid advancement. Jobs are found in large animal,
small animal, or mixed animal practices, research facilities, animal shelters and zoos.
This new branch of animal science can provide you with an interesting, rewarding, and
challenging career.
8
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Qualifications for the Program…Are you
ready?
A. WHAT HIGH SCHOOL COURSES ARE REQUIRED?
Average or better grades in high school algebra, biology and chemistry (two
semesters or 1 year of each) are very important and are REQUIRED. Applicants
without algebra, biology or chemistry must take these courses prior to being accepted
into the program. These required courses must be passed with a grade of “C” or better
in each semester. Biology and chemistry must include a laboratory and be for students
going into a science field. Other desirable courses include speech, bookkeeping,
physics, office practices, computer keyboarding, Microsoft office software, animal
science, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology and agriculture. No one would
be expected to have all of these. Students are considered for the Veterinary Technician
program on the merits of their total high school and/or college transcripts and ACT,
COMPASS, or other comparable test scores. See “Admission Guidelines for the
Veterinary Technician Program” for more information.
B. IS ANIMAL EXPERIENCE NECESSARY?
Previous work experience with animals can be very beneficial. Experience on a
farm, working with a veterinarian, or other animal jobs will be helpful in attaining the
skills and knowledge necessary for this career, but even more important is the science
and mathematical ability to do laboratory work, radiology and other such tasks. We like
to see a student have some hands-on animal experience and background so he/she is
sure of mastering the working conditions of this career. It takes more than a "lover of
animals" to be a good veterinary technician. Experience with, interest in, and capacity
for working with the type of small and large animals serviced by a veterinarian are very
important. Good physical and emotional health is necessary. Physically you should be
able to lift at least fifty pounds. Certain allergies, poor vision or hearing that isn't
corrected, or being color blind could hamper a student in this career. Desirable
personal traits to work with the public in periods of stress and emergencies as well as in
general clinic relationships are also desired.
9
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
C. CAN I TAKE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN TRAINING ONLINE OR
ON A PART-TIME BASIS?
Veterinary Technician core classes requiring “hands-on” technical skills are only
offered on-site at this time. Some lecture only based courses are offered online as well
as on-site. General Education courses may be taken on-site, over instructional
television, or online. Students must enroll as a full-time student during their first
semester in the program. Students may complete the program on a part-time basis
after they have completed the first semester. Because of the limited number of
spots available for the first semester of the program, students must be concurrently
enrolled in all of the following: 10-091-105 Occupational Prep, 10-091-123 Laboratory
Animal Science 1, 10-091-170 Veterinary Medical Terminology, 10-091-171 Animal Care
& Management 1, and 10-806-105 Animal Biology (unless these classes are completed
elsewhere prior to the student’s first semester in the program).
10
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Finances…What are the Costs?
A. WHAT IS THE TUITION?
These rates vary from year to year as they are based on current instructional costs.
These fees are set by the legislature and change yearly. Student activities and parking
fees are also charged. A higher semester credit fee is charged for college transfer
general education courses a student may choose to take. For information regarding
tuition and fees, go to the Madison College websites:
http://madisoncollege.edu/tuition-fees.
Advance Reservation Fee . . . An advance reservation fee of $50.00 is due
within thirty (30) days after notification of acceptance onto a waiting list.
The receipt of this fee is the student's assurance of a place on the Veterinary
Technician waiting list for future admittance either that semester or the following fall
semester. This fee will apply towards the regular fees at the time of registration. It is
important to pay this fee promptly within the thirty (30) days as requested.
Non-payment will cause the person's application to be cancelled.
Room and Board . . . Expenses for room and board, of course, vary according to
each individual. Madison College does not provide housing facilities. Most students
locate their housing at the time of registration in summer. A college cafeteria offers
well-balanced and complete meals to students. City bus service is available to the
school.
Books, school supplies, and fees . . . Students that are now enrolled find that
books, personal school supplies, and fees are necessary. It is recommended to budget
approximately $700 per semester for these additional costs. Of these items, books are
generally the most expensive item. Our college bookstore sells the necessary textbooks
and school supplies to students. Most textbooks can be ordered online and either
delivered to your home or reserved and picked-up at Truax near the beginning of the
semester.
B. IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?
As in the University of Wisconsin system and at other Wisconsin Technical College
System districts, financial aid is available for those who need it. Financial aid is
designed to supplement the resources of the student and family. The family is
11
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
expected to pay as much as it can realistically handle; financial aid--grants, loans, work
study--then make up the balance. Simply stated, a grant is financial aid that is not
repaid by the student. A loan is temporary assistance (up to ten years) that must be
repaid. Work-study funds are earned through jobs which most often tie in with the
student's classroom study.
To be considered for financial assistance, a student must apply. MATC students
may begin the Financial Aid process online at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov as soon as their
current tax returns are complete. The Financial Aid Office offers federal and state
grants, employment opportunities, scholarships and loan programs to assist students
who would otherwise be unable to afford an education.
For help with filling out the FAFSA, call (608) 246-6170 to register for a FAFSA
Workshop (Wednesday afternoons / Friday mornings). Visit our MATC Website at
www.madisoncollege.edu, go to the homepage, then to the “A-Z” index, to F, search for
Financial Aid and you will find other valuable financial aid information. Before you will
be sent a financial aid award announcement, you must have been accepted for
enrollment in an approved post-secondary program. To determine the extent of a
student's financial need, the financial aid officer takes into account the financial support
which may be expected from the income, assets, and other resources of the student,
the student's parents and, if applicable, the student's spouse. The amount of need is
determined by subtracting the contributions available from the student's total cost of
attending school. The difference between these resources and the school costs, which
are based upon average student costs, constitutes the student's financial need.
It is the philosophy of Madison College that deserving students should not be
denied the opportunity to attend our college because of financial need as long as funds
are available to help them.
C. CAN I HOLD A PART-TIME JOB WHILE ATTENDING MADISON
COLLEGE?
Most students hold part-time employment while attending school. A student may
obtain help finding employment by contacting Madison College’s Career and
Employment Services. Information can be found online at
http://madisoncollege.edu/career-and-employment-services. Whether or not you hold
a part-time job should at least be partially dependent on your scholastic ability and how
well you do in your college courses. About 90 percent of Madison College students
have some part-time employment while attending school. However, working too many
hours at outside employment has been demonstrated to seriously impair student
success in the Veterinary Technician Program.
12
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
D. CAN I LIVE AT HOME AND/OR COMMUTE TO SCHOOL?
Many students enrolled in the post-secondary curriculum at Madison College are
residents of the Madison area and live at home. Others look to the private sector for
housing in the Madison area or commute daily from homes outside the Dane County
area.
E. WHAT ABOUT HOUSING?
A good supply of housing is available in Madison. Nevertheless, students are
advised to make housing arrangements in early summer after they are accepted (late
June to mid-July is a good time). Madison College does not provide housing for
students, however, the Student Life Office has a brochure to use as a guide to assist in
finding housing called “A Guide to Finding Housing in Madison”.
13
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Applying to the Program….How and When?
A. HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN
PROGRAM?
You are required to fill out a Madison College application online. Applications can
be found at our website: www.madisoncollege.edu. At the time of submission of your
on-line application you will be charged a $5.00 access fee plus the $30.00 application
fee.
In addition, you are required to submit by postal mail:
1) Official high school transcripts and/or GED/HSED transcripts;
2) Official post-secondary (college) transcripts, if applicable.
3) ACT or COMPASS assessment current within the last 2 years. The COMPASS
assessment is free and can be taken at Madison College or a technical
college near you. Completed applications will be considered for processing as
of the third Monday in October for the following fall semester. All of
the above items need to be received by the third Monday in October to be
considered a complete “1st Day Applicant”. The Veterinary Technician
Program has historically filled with 1st day applicants. The earliest date
applications may be submitted online is September 1st. If an application is
received prior to September 1st, the application and credentials may be
returned to you.
Your application will not be considered “complete” and ready for review until all the
documents are received by the Enrollment Center. For the best consideration, we
highly recommend that you submit your application online AND we receive all your
accompanying documentation on or before the third Monday in October.
Important: If you applied to Madison College previously, your transcripts may be on
file. However, if your previous application was submitted while you were a high school
senior, you must send a complete four-year high school transcript once you graduate.
If you applied previously and were in the process of taking college courses, you are
now required to submit up-to-date transcripts from that college. Your application will
not be considered complete without the up-to-date transcripts.
Board policy mandates that qualified applicants are accepted on a first-come, first14
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
served basis. However, if the number of qualified applicants (who have applications on
file on the first day of consideration) exceeds the number of spots available in the
program, students will be randomly selected by computer.
Students not selected will be put on a waiting list, and will be notified when space
becomes available in the program. If the waiting list is full, then the program is closed.
Reservation Fee: For high-demand programs, a $50 reservation fee is due within
30 days of being notified of waiting list status. Payment of this fee keeps a student on
the waiting list until such a time there is a place in the program, either for the current
fall semester or the following fall semester. This fee will apply toward tuition at the time
of enrollment.
Cancellation of Acceptance/Application: To cancel your acceptance into a
program, please send written notification (notice is found on the Madison College
website: http://madisoncollege.edu/application-deadlines to the Enrollment Center. If
cancellation is received by July 1 for the fall semester (or December 5th for the spring
semester), fees will be refunded. Additionally, if the applicant cancels their wait list
status, the full $50 is refunded upon written request (if the fee has not been applied to
previous tuition).
B. CAN I START THE PROGRAM IN SPRING OR FALL?
We do not admit students to start in the spring semester unless they are part of
our UW-River Falls articulation agreement or transfer in from another accredited
veterinary technician program.
C. CAN I BE ACCEPTED FOR THE PROGRAM IF I DON’T LIVE IN
WISCONSIN?
Although the program has been designed with Wisconsin residents in mind,
out-of-state persons may be admitted if space permits. Out-of-state applications are
not reviewed until a certain amount of time has elapsed for acceptance of in-state
applicants.
D. ARE THERE ANY ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS WITH 4-YR
COLLEGES?
Madison Area Technical College and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls signed
15
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
an articulation agreement in March 2007 between the Madison Area Technical College
Veterinary Technician Associate Degree Program and the University of Wisconsin-River
Falls Animal Science – Veterinary Technician Emphasis Bachelor of Science Program. A
summary of the agreement follows:
1. Students graduating from Madison College with a 2-year Veterinary Technician
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree are guaranteed admission to UW-River Falls
to obtain the Animal Science – Veterinary Technology emphasis Bachelor of Science
degree (BS).
a. BS can be finished in an additional 2 years with full credit load.
b. Students will be eligible to sit for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National
Exam) upon graduation from Madison College.
c. Majority of credits will transfer, including 100 level general education
courses.
2. Students completing 2.0– 3.0 years (depending on credit load) at UW-River
Falls in the Animal Science – Veterinary Technology emphasis program are guaranteed
admission to Madison College’s Veterinary Technician program in the second semester.
a. Veterinary Technician AAS degree completed in additional 1.5 years.
b. Students will be eligible to sit for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National
Exam) upon graduation from Madison College.
c. Advanced standing for most Madison College first semester courses and all
general education courses.
d. BS degree from UW-River Falls will be granted upon completion of Madison
College Veterinary Technician AAS degree.
e. Students will be required to attend an animal restraint mini-course prior to
spring semester entry.
*Note: This transfer agreement is only between the two degrees above and will not
apply to other degrees at Madison College or UW-River Falls.
E. HOW SOON WILL I KNOW IF I HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO
THE PROGRAM?
Official acceptance or denial notices are sent by the admissions counselor to
program applicants as soon as they can be processed. This may require several
months after all of your credentials have been received. Application processing is
expedited by submitting all required application materials together. Generally, we
attempt to send acceptance letters by the end of January.
16
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
F. WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION GUIDELINES FOR THE
VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM?
Assessment Needed: ACT OR COMPASS* assessment. Assessment scores must be
within last two years.
Desired ACT Standard Scores: English: 20, Math: 20,
Social Science: 20, Natural Science: 20, Composite: 20
Desired COMPASS Assessment Test Scores:
Reading: 85, Writing: 78, e-Write: 6, Algebra: 40
*The COMPASS assessment will also be required in the review process for all
incoming students if the ACT test has not been taken within the last two years.
High School Courses Required: Grades of “C” or better are required for all courses
(Note: Grades of C- and below are not acceptable.)



Algebra - two semesters, each with a grade of “C” or better
Biology - two semesters, each with a grade of “C” or better. Biology must be
with a laboratory, designed for students who will go into a science field.
Chemistry - two semesters, each with a grade of “C” or better.



Chemistry must be math based, with a laboratory, designed for
students who will go into a science field. We will not accept the
following high school chemistry classes: Chem Com, Chemistry in
the Community, or Conceptual Chemistry. If you have questions
about your chemistry class, please call our Academic Advisor at
(608) 246-6232.
Reading ability - preferably at or near 12th grade level
2.0 cumulative GPA in high school studies
Program Prerequisite Courses for students without high school required
courses:
The following college courses are required for persons who have not had high school
algebra, chemistry, or biology and/or need more reading and/or writing skills, all with a
grade of “C” or better. . An applicant does not have to take all of the following courses,
only the ones they need to satisfy entrance requirements or to achieve qualifying
assessment scores.
17
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
10-808-101
10-831-103
10-804-110
10-804-107
10-806-134
10-836-113
College Reading Strategies
Introduction to College Writing
Elementary Algebra with Applications
College Mathematics
General Chemistry
Prep for Basic Biology
3
3
3
3
4
2
credits
credits
credits
credits
credits
credits
Aptitude or Interest Desired: Students should have knowledge of, interest in, and
capacity for working with animals as serviced by a veterinarian. Individuals should like
animals, but that alone is not enough. Students must be willing to perform routine
laboratory and diagnostic tests, office duties, assist with surgery, perform dental
cleanings and cage cleaning as well as be interested in the many duties performed by a
veterinarian. Prospective students should not be afraid of any kind of animal, large or
small. Prospective students should not have been convicted of a felony involving
controlled substance drugs, since handling drugs will be involved and it may prohibit
licensure. Students must be willing to spend some weekends and extended day hours
during the week upon demand. Must be able to spend the first summer after
completion of all first year courses away from home for Internship, which is a required
part of the curriculum.
Desired Physical Characteristics: Have good physical and emotional health, free
from allergies, be able to stand for long periods of time, be able to handle delicate
instruments and equipment, have good vision and hearing, and be able to distinguish
colors. Students should be able to lift at least 50 pounds unassisted. Reasonable
accommodations/modifications will be made for persons with disabilities. Functional
abilities required to perform the job of veterinary technician (and to complete our
program) can be found online on the Veterinary Technician webpage.
Personal Characteristics Desired: A good student in all classes, accuracy in work,
attention to detail, and a studious, inquiring mind in mathematical, science, and animal
subjects. Must be conscientious, reliable and dedicated and have the ability to work
with the public calmly and efficiently during periods of stress, emotional anxiety, patient
in emergencies and in general clinic relationships.
Individual Most Likely to Succeed: An individual who shows maturity and has had
experience in working with large animals (cattle, swine, sheep, horses, etc.) and small
animals (dogs, cats, etc.) prior to enrolling. Individuals who show accuracy in their
work, who have demonstrated academic success based upon grades and testing, and
who have a pleasing appearance and personality, and who will be dedicated to a
lifetime career are most likely to succeed in this profession.
18
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
G. CHECKLIST FOR VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM
APPLICATION
Please note: Only completed applications will be considered for
admissions to the Veterinary Technician program.
Keep this checklist to be sure your application is complete.
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
( )
Completed application online with the non-refundable application fee,
Official copy of your high school transcript regardless of your present status,
(grades 9-11 if a senior in high school, grades 9-12 if you are a graduate),
List of senior subjects if you are a senior in high school,
ACT or COMPASS* assessment,
An official transcript of any post-secondary (college) education you have
completed beyond high school if you are a high school graduate,
A permanent home address and telephone number where you can be
reached should be included on your application form. College or short-term
addresses may not enable us to reach you if needed.
Additional information is not required but may be added to your application as you
see fit. Such materials may include letters of recommendation (especially from
veterinarians), work experience records, explanations of any special situations, etc.
Applicants with complete credentials listed above are considered on a first-come,
first-serve basis starting with the first day of admissions (third Monday of October for
the following fall term).
If additional help or information is needed, please write the above address or
telephone (608) 246-6232.
*COMPASS assessment will also be required in the review process for all incoming
students who have not taken the ACT test within the last two years.
19
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
COLLEGE CREDITS – HOW DO THEY
TRANSFER?
A. CAN I TRANSFER CREDITS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS OF
HIGHER LEARNING?
Students transferring from other institutions of higher learning may have their
records evaluated by the Program Director or Academic Advisor of the School of
Agriscience and Technologies and may receive permission to waive certain
requirements provided the courses being transferred are equivalent in material content,
credit value, and science course laboratory hours. It is also necessary that you receive
a grade of "C" or above in these courses to be transferred. Because of certain
prerequisites in the Veterinary Technician program, this will generally not reduce the
two years for the training but will lower your credit load while you are here.
Courses taken at any accredited university that are transferable if taken within the
past 5 years are: Animal Biology or Zoology and Chemistry (inorganic and organic
components). Exceptions can be made for applicants who use animal biology, zoology
or chemistry in their daily work (i.e. job). Courses transferable at any time, regardless
of how long ago they were completed, include: English Composition 1 and 2,
Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, and Speech or the equivalent.
B. WHAT OTHER TRAINING OR EXPERIENCE CAN RECEIVE
CREDIT?
In addition to transferring credits from other institutions of higher learning, a
student may be granted other credit toward the Veterinary Technician Associate Degree
by making application to the Academic Advisor. Such credit may be given for previous
work experience, previous military education or experience, and advanced high school
courses comparable in content and level (if an articulation agreement exists). At the
discretion of the Academic Advisor, the evaluation of such credit shall be oral, written,
performance testing, or by a combination of these.
Acknowledging that learning may take place anywhere, MATC awards credit for
experiential learning that contributes directly to an associate degree program.
Experiential learning refers especially to learning that occurs outside the classroom, in
work settings, communities, or self directed accomplishments. It emphasizes
performance over concept. This type of learning might be applicable towards
20
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Internship.
C. CAN I TRANSFER CREDITS FROM THE VETERINARY
TECHNICIAN PROGRAM TOWARDS A DEGREE AS A DOCTOR OF
VETERINARY MEDICINE?
This isn't the primary objective of veterinary technician training, but if you plan to
continue your education beyond our two-year Veterinary Technician program, some of
the credits could be transferable. It is recommended you take college transfer level
general education courses (200 level - Science, English, Mathematics) instead of the
associate degree (100 level) general education level courses the Veterinary Technician
students take (which are not always transferable.) There is an additional cost to the
student for each college transfer semester credit and, of course, acceptance of such
credits is dependent upon the school to which you wish the credits transferred. Also,
some four-year institutions accept some associate degree general education courses.
Check with the school that you intend to enroll in to see which courses are transferable.
If you plan to take college transferable credits in lieu of those required in the
curriculum, steps to do this should be completed at or prior to the time you register
after being accepted.
21
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Acceptance to the Program….What’s next?
A. WHAT IS THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN CURRICULUM?
Course No.
Course Name
Credits
FIRST YEAR
1st Semester
10-091-105
10-091-123
10-091-170
10-091-171
10-801-195
10-806-105
Occupational Preparation
Laboratory Animal Science 1
Veterinary Medical Terminology
Animal Care & Management 1
Written Communications
Principles of Animal Biology
2nd Semester
10-091-107 Animal Disease 1
10-091-109
Pharmacology 1
10-091-120
Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1
10-091-131
Veterinary Office Procedures 1
10-091-172
Animal Care & Management 2
10-806-178
Life Science Chemistry
1
2
2
3
3
4
2
3
15
2
1
Summer Semester
10-091-158
Internship (8 wks/288 hours)
3
5
16
4
SECOND YEAR
3rd Semester
10-091-108
Animal Disease 2
10-091-124 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2
10-091-127
Surgical Nursing 1
10-091-128
Animal Nursing 1
10-091-132
Veterinary Office Procedures 2
10-091-140
Animal Anatomy and Physiology 1
10-801-197
Technical Reporting
4th Semester
10-091-110
10-091-121
10-091-122
10-091-152
10-091-153
10-809-197
10-809-199
Pharmacology 2
Veterinary Clinical Pathology 3
Advanced Topics in Clinical Pathology
Surgical Nursing 2
Diagnostic Imaging
Contemporary American Society
Psychology of Human Relations
Total Program Credits 70
3
2
2
4
3
3
3
1
3
18
2
3
1
2
3
17
22
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
B. WHAT ARE THE COURSES ABOUT?
Course descriptions in the Veterinary Technician program:
10-091-105 Occupational Preparation
1 credit
This course is designed to acquaint new students with the general competencies necessary
to be employed as veterinary and laboratory animal technicians. Addresses the student=s
personal safety, health and stress management. Discusses memberships in professional
organizations, certification, licensing and internship preparation. Briefly discusses animal
loss and bereavement.
10-091-107 Animal Disease 1
2 credits
Covers etiology, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, prevention and control of diseases
that are transmissible from animals to humans as well as animals to animals. Reporting
requirements and handling of diagnostic samples involving high-exposure diseases are also
discussed. Prerequisite: 10-091-170 Veterinary Medical Terminology.
10-091-108 Animal Disease 2
2 credits
Covers etiology, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, prevention and control of common
diseases in a wide variety of animal species. Toxic plants and other substances, as well as
reporting and monitoring of federally regulated diseases will also be discussed.
Prerequisites: 10-091-107 Animal Disease 1 and completion of or concurrent enrollment
in 10-091-171 Animal Care & Management 1 and 10-091-123 Laboratory Animal Science 1.
10-091-109 Pharmacology 1
2 credits
Introduction to drugs and other substances used in veterinary medicine. Emphasizes drug
usage, client education, measurement, administration, and safe storage of antiparasitics,
antiinflammatories, antibiotics and nervous system drugs. Prerequisites: 10-091-170
Veterinary Medical Terminology and 10-091-171 Animal Care and Management 1.
10-091-110 Pharmacology 2
2 credits
Introduction to drugs and other substances used in veterinary medicine. Emphasizes drug
usage, client education, measurement, administration, and safe storage of cardiac,
respiratory, gastrointestinal, chemotherapy, ophthalmic and other drugs. Prerequisite:
10-091-109 Pharmacology 1 and 10-091-158 Internship.
10-091-120 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1
3 credits
First in sequence of three courses. Students are introduced to laboratory equipment,
elementary laboratory procedures and the principles of microscopy, parasitology, urine
analysis, hematology and bacteriology. Prerequisites: 10-091-170 Veterinary Medical
Terminology, and 10-091-171 Animal Care and Management 1.
10-091-121 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 3
3 credits
Third in sequence of three courses. Continues to expand upon the principles, procedures
and skills learned in Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1 & 2, including hematology,
parasitology, urine analysis, microbiology, cytology, mycology, cirology, serology,
immunology and blood chemistries. Will continue to expand upon the use of automated
23
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
laboratory procedures for hematology and clinical chemistries. Prerequisite: 10-091-124
Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2 , 10-091-158 Internship, and 10-806-178 Life Science
Chemistry.
10-091-122 Advanced Topics in Clinical Pathology
1 credit
Current topics and advanced diagnostic procedures in clinical pathology. Prerequisites: 10091-124 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in 10091-121 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 3.
10-091-123 Laboratory Animal Science 1
2 credits
This course includes the history of laboratory animal technology and laboratory animal
uses. It emphasizes the Animal Welfare Act and other regulations pertaining to the care of
laboratory animals. It covers laboratory animal husbandry in depth as students provide
care and treatment for a colony of laboratory animals. Prerequisites: Completion or
concurrent enrollment in 10-091-105 Occupational Preparation, 10-091-170 Veterinary
Medical Terminology and 10-091-071 Animal Care and Management 1.
10-091-124 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2
3 credits
Second in sequence of three courses. Students utilize laboratory equipment, including the
microscope and complete selected laboratory procedures, including parasitology, mycology,
urine analysis, hematology, serology, bacteriology, cytology and blood chemistries.
Prerequisite: 10-091-158 Internship and 10-091-120 Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1.
10-091-127 Surgical Nursing 1 3 credits
This introductory course to surgical nursing covers surgical instruments, package prep,
patient prep, anesthesia, monitoring and post-op care. Prerequisites: 10-091-158
Internship and concurrent enrollment or completion of 10-091-140 Animal Anatomy and
Physiology 1.
10-091-128 Animal Nursing 1
2 credits
Designed to build on nursing skills learned in 10-091-172 Animal Care & Management 2
with emphasis on large animal anesthetic techniques, surgical preparation and monitoring.
Prerequisites: 10-091-158 Internship; 10-091-127 Surgical Nursing 1 or concurrent
enrollment.
10-091-131 Veterinary Office Procedures 1
1 credit
Covers development of appropriate public, client and staff relations; telephone etiquette,
making appointments, managing records, client services and education, and personal
grooming and attire. Legal requirements for record keeping as well as an introduction to
the rules and regulations governing the veterinary and laboratory animal technician will
also be discussed. Prerequisites: 10-091-170 Veterinary Medical Terminology and 10091-105 Occupational Preparation
10-091-132 Veterinary Office Procedures 2
1 credit
A computer based course covering office documents, patient records, billing, estimates,
etc...using veterinary office software. Prerequisites: 10-091-131 Veterinary Office
Procedures 1 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in 10-091-171 Animal Care and
24
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Management 1.
10-091-140 Animal Anatomy and Physiology I
4 credits
In this course, lectures will emphasize terminology, functions, location, identification and
organization of anatomical structures that are parts of body systems. Students dissect and
study cadavers and tissue specimens from common domestic species. Prerequisite: 10806-105 Animal Biology; completion of or concurrent enrollment in 10-091-171 Animal Care
and Management 1.
10-091-152 Surgical Nursing 2
2 credits
Focuses on the continuation of basic surgical nursing and anesthesia skills. Also covers
basic dental prohylaxis, dental radiography and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Prerequisite: 10-091-127 Surgical Nursing 1.
10-091-153 Diagnostic Imaging
3 credits
Covers radiology, electrocardiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, and other special imaging
procedures and technologies. Prerequisites: 10-091-127 Surgical Nursing 1 and 10-091140 Animal Anatomy and Physiology 1.
10-091-158 Internship
4 credits
Internship (work experience) is a very important phase of practical training for students
enrolled in the program. It generally follows the second semester of classwork in the
college summer recess and is conducted during a period of eight weeks (or 288 hours).
The student=s work is supervised by assigned instructors. Prerequisite: Completion of all
first-year program courses except for 10-091-123 Laboratory Animal Science 1.
10-091-170 Veterinary Medical Terminology
2 credits
This course teaches acceptable veterinary medical terminology for common clinically
recognizable diseases, operations, systems and procedures, as well as common medical
signs, abbreviations and colloquial vocabulary.
10-091-171 Animal Care and Management 1
3 credits
This course focuses on handling and husbandry of animals most commonly seen in
veterinary medicine. Includes animal behavior, nutrition and healthcare. Prerequisites:
Completion or concurrent enrollment in 10-806-105 Animal Biology, 10-091-170 Veterinary
Medical Terminology, and 10-091-105 Occupational Preparation.
10-091-172 Animal Care and Management 2
3 credits
Focuses on handling, medical nursing and disease processes of animals most commonly
seen in veterinary medicine. Prerequisites: 10-091-170 Veterinary Medical Terminology,
10-091-171 Animal Care and Management 1 and 10-091-105 Occupational Preparation.
25
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
C. CAN I TAKE COLLEGE TRANSFER COURSES INSTEAD?
Students may wish to take the general education (200 numbered) courses at the 4-year
college transfer level in place of the AAS degree general education (100 numbered) courses.
This is recommended for students without bachelor degrees who may want to pursue a 4-year
degree in the future.
MATC AAS
MATC Courses taken in lieu of AAS
Degree Courses
Courses for possible Transfer
10-801-195
Written Communications .....20-801-201 English 1
10-801-197
Technical Reporting ............20-801-260 Technical Communications OR
.............................................................. 20-801-202 English 2
10-806-105
Principles of Animal Biology .20-806-203 Introduction to Zoology
10-809-197
Cont. American Society .......20-809-203 Introduction to Sociology
10-809-199
Psych. Of Human Relations .20-809-231 Introduction to Psychology
10-806-178 Life Science Chemistry.........20-806-201 General Organic & Biological Chemistry
................................................. 20-806-209. College Chemistry 1
D. ARE THERE RELATED COURSES THAT CAN BE TAKEN?
The following courses are available to enhance Bachelor of Science degree
opportunities but are not part of the veterinary technician degree curriculum:
20-804-201
20-806-212
20-806-273
Intermediate Algebra
College Chemistry II
Microbiology
3 credits
5 credits
4 credits
E. WHO TEACHES THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN COURSES?
All courses that are directly related to the Veterinary Technician program are taught
by licensed veterinarians and by certified veterinary technicians who have worked in
veterinary practices with both large and small animals. Other courses in science,
mathematics, communication, etc., are taught by the general education and business
faculty. Outside of the college, internships provide additional clinical experience and
are supervised by either a Wisconsin licensed veterinarian or a Wisconsin certified
veterinary technician.
F. WHEN DO THE CLASSES MEET?
The Madison College day class schedule is conducted from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.,
Monday through Friday. However, classes for this program have been grouped as
26
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
much as possible to generally meet from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Several "free periods"
follow classes in this schedule within a given week allowing students time for lunch,
studying, and free time.
G. ARE UNIFORMS REQUIRED?
The type of jacket smock garments worn by veterinary technicians in veterinary
clinics is required in laboratory classes starting with the first semester in the first year of
training. Students' dress and appearance at all times will be expected to be as when
they become employed as veterinary technicians. Smocks are purchased by the
students early in the first semester and are of a style and type prescribed by the
college. These will be ordered at New Student Orientation. Students are also required
to wear coveralls and boots first semester, and surgical scrubs and safety glasses in
later courses.
27
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Internship ….. What is it?
A. WHAT ABOUT SUMMER INTERNSHIP – DO I GET PAID?
Summer internship work experience is a required four-credit course. It is
considered to be an essential phase of the two-year Veterinary Technician associate
degree program. It follows the completion of all first year coursework and is conducted
during a period of eight or more weeks (or 288 hours), in the summer between the first
and second years (and for some, during the academic year). This will allow you
approximately three to four weeks of vacation time during the summer in addition to
your internship. Placement for this training will be with a cooperating veterinarian who
is licensed to practice in Wisconsin and your work will be supervised by the Madison
College instructors who teach the Veterinary Technician classes. Placement for
internship is the responsibility of the student during his/her first two semesters of
training and he/she should be aware that not all such positions can be found in his/her
home area or in the Madison area. Students are given instruction concerning applying
for Internship in an Occupational Preparation course and then are given an independent
role in their own placement. It is recommended that you be paid for Internship, but it
isn't required. Most veterinary hospital/clinic internships are unpaid. Some employers
opt to donate money towards an intern’s tuition in lieu of wages and this has become
more common in recent years.
B. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE VETERINARY
TECHNICIAN INTERNSHIP?
Internship is a four-credit course (10-091-158) in the Veterinary Technician
curriculum at Madison Area Technical College shall be performed under the following
conditions:
1.
Students must complete all first year courses in the Veterinary Technician
program before enrolling in Internship (with the exception of Laboratory
Animal Science 1).
2.
Students must be present and participate in the one-day (8 hours total)
pre-internship training period conducted by the veterinary instructors. This
eight-hour training session is part of the Internship course (10-091-158) and
students will be graded for their participation. These 8 hours are credited
towards your internship hours. Pre-internship is usually conducted
immediately following the second semester (spring) final examination period.
Students failing to participate in this training will receive an incomplete grade
for the Internship course and will not be allowed to intern until later.
28
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
3.
Students will be registered for the Internship course (10-091-158) with fees
paid prior to the start of pre-internship orientation day. Students should
register for Internship at the same time they register for fall semester.
4.
Internship will be at an approved location in Wisconsin or a close location in a
bordering state. Other locations may be approved under special conditions.
The specific practice and type of practice must be approved. Approval will be
made by the Employer, Internship Instructor-of-Record, the Program
Director, and the Dean.
5.
Students are required to intern:
a. 288 hours in a mixed practice, OR
b. 144 hours in small animal practice and 144 hours in mixed or large animal
practice, OR
c. 144 hours in laboratory animal facility, zoo, or specialty practice and
remainder (144 hours) in a mixed animal practice.
6.
Internship duties must include those normally performed as a Veterinary
Technician in a veterinary clinic. Performance only as kennel help or
receptionist is not acceptable. A practice or referral facility, having no
previous experience with Madison College Veterinary Technician interns, will
have an on-site visit near the start of the internship period as well as the two
regular visits at a later time in the training period. This is done to assure that
the student intern will receive the proper on-the-job training.
7.
A time span of 288 or more hours of internship are required during an eight
or more week time period. If 288 hours are completed prior to a span of
eight weeks, the student must continue until eight weeks are completed.
8.
The student must keep track of and report the days and number of internship
hours worked, and any telephone or address changes. The very high cost of
mileage does not allow scheduling instructor visits to students who are not on
the job that day. The student intern must also agree to arrange for a
student-instructor-employer consultation at the time of the visit. Students
will be informed of the dates for instructor visits by mail, email, or telephone.
9.
All Internship reports and the Internship Workbook are due in the School of
Agriscience and Technologies office on a specific pre-scheduled basis
regardless of when internship is started for the individual. Students will
receive a schedule showing when each report is due. Adequate sized
envelopes with proper postage should be used in sending reports.
29
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
10. The cooperating veterinarian where you intern does not issue you a course
grade although their evaluation of your performance is considered. Individual
student grades are issued following an "exit conference" with the Veterinary
Technician instructors in the fall semester following internship. Not
participating in the exit conference may be cause for a failing grade.
11. Grades for Internship other than "incomplete" will not be issued to any
student until all internship requirements are met. This includes all reports,
workbook, employer evaluations, and an exit conference.
12. Arrangements for pay (if any) are between the student intern and the
cooperating veterinarian. Students shall understand they are not employed
but are interning to learn vital Veterinary Technician skills. It is the
prerogative of the cooperating veterinarian(s) to pay you a sum for mileage,
housing, etc., while you are interning, contribute towards fall tuition, or pay
wages.
13. Some credit may be given for hours of experience worked prior to the
internship period. A maximum of 1 credit (72 hours) of advanced standing
may be granted, reducing the required eight-week time span to six weeks
(216 hours). To gain such credit, requests must be made in writing to the
Veterinary Technician Program Director. Such requests must include place
worked, time span, hours, and specific duties performed. The request must
be signed by the employer(s) and the student. A written and/or oral test
may be utilized to determine whether specific skills have been learned. The
Veterinary Technician Program Director will make approval of Internship
advanced standing after consultation with and recommendation by the
Veterinary Technician Internship instructors.
30
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Completing the Program …What’s in the
future?
A. ARE VETERINARY TECHNICIANS “LICENSED”?
Under Wisconsin law, veterinary technicians working for veterinarians are
"Certified". This involves passing a rules and regulations examination administered by
the Wisconsin Department of Regulation & Licensing Veterinary Examining Board and
the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). There are fees involved to take these
examinations. Most other states utilize similar procedures. Almost all graduates of
Madison Area Technical College can and have met the qualifications of Wisconsin and
other states. Historically we have had a greater than 95% pass rate on the VTNE. See
Appendix A: Certification for Veterinary Technicians.
B. WILL MADISON COLLEGE ASSIST ME IN LOCATING A
POSITION AS A VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WHEN I
GRADUATE?
Personnel at Madison Area Technical College cannot promise anyone a job, but it is
the college policy to assist each graduate in finding suitable and profitable employment
if such help is requested. While there is no guarantee of job placement, the student
who acquires adequate training and develops the necessary initiative can be more
readily assisted in locating employment commensurate with his/her training. You will
be given the opportunity to be interviewed by a number of individuals in geographic
areas and positions where you might like to be employed. In recent years Madison
College's Placement Office has received job listings that outnumber the graduates by a
4 to 1 ratio. You, of course, will make the final decision of where you would like to
work, but not all students can be placed in their home areas or in the Madison area.
Surveys that have been conducted indicate that there will be more than ample
employment opportunities. Placement in recent years has been at or near 100%. In
addition to veterinarians, small animal laboratories, medical laboratories, research
institutions, pharmaceutical manufacturers, animal shelters and zoos are interested in
individuals with veterinary technician training.
31
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Miscellaneous
A. IS THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM AT MADISON
COLLEGE ACCREDITED?
The Veterinary Technician program at Madison Area Technical College has been
accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association after a study of curriculum,
facilities, and equipment which involve an on-site visitation by the accreditation
committee. The AVMA reviews accreditation of the program on a biannual basis (every
2 years) and with an on-site visit and comprehensive review (every 6 years) to ensure
minimal standards are maintained.
The North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools accredit Madison
College as a college. The Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) Board accredits
the technical associate degree programs and has approved the veterinary technician
program curriculum. The coordinating Committee for Higher Education and the WTCS
Board approved the liberal arts curriculum; therefore the college is authorized to offer
collegiate transfer courses. The University of Wisconsin and other four-year institutions
accept many college transfer courses for transfer credit.
B. WHAT OTHER AGRICULTURAL PROGRAMS/CERTIFICATES ARE
OFFERED BY MADISON COLLEGE?
10 week Certificate:
● Laboratory Animal Caretaker Training (half-days)
Information on the above certificate can be found at our website:
www.madisoncollege.edu, on the homepage go to the “A-Z” listing to locate the
Laboratory Animal Caretaker Certificate.
Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) for Laboratory Animal Technician Training:
Coming Soon! A new ATC is in development to assist with training veterinary
technicians as laboratory animal technicians. Look on our website for further
details.
32
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Where can I get more information?
For answers to other questions you may have about enrolling in the Veterinary
Technician program contact:
School of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology
Madison Area Technical College
1701 Wright Street
Madison, WI 53704
ASET@madisoncollege.edu
1 (800) 628-6282 ext 6800 or (608) 246-6800
For more specific information about the Veterinary Technician program content, course
content, or customized training programs, call or email:
Dr. CC Sheldon, Program Director
(608) 246-6763
csheldon@madisoncollege.edu
33
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704
Veterinary Technician Program Information
Appendix A. Certification for Veterinary Technicians
VETERINARY EXAMINING BOARD
VE 8.04
Unofficial Text (See Printed Volume). Current through date and Register shown on Title Page.
Chapter VE 8
CERTIFICATION FOR VETERINARY TECHNICIANS
VE 8.01 Definitions.
VE 8.03 Application procedures for veterinary technician
applicants.
VE 8.02 Qualification for certification.
VE 8.04 Certification.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
VE 8.01 Definitions. As used in this chapter:
board at least 30 days prior to the date of the scheduled
(1)“Board approved technical school or college” means a
examination. All supporting documents shall be in English. An
technical school or college which the board approves at its annual
application is not complete until the board receives all of the
review of technical schools or colleges.
following:
Note: The board shall consider for approval all schools which
(a) An application form provided by the board and
are accredited or approved by the American veterinary medical
completed by the applicant which includes the applicant’s
association.
notarized signature.
(2) “Certificate” means a document issued to a person by
Note: Applications are available upon request to the board
the board, after the person has met the requirements of s. 453.06
office located at 1400 East Washington Avenue, P.O. Box 8935,
(3), Stats., signifying that the person has met the statutory
Madison, Wisconsin 53708
requirements to practice veterinary technology in Wisconsin.
(c) The fees required under s. 440.05 (1), Stats.
History: Cr. Register, September, 1989, No. 405, eff. 10-1Note: A list of all current examination fees may be obtained at
89; am. (2), Register, December, 1998, No. 516, eff. 1-1-99.
no charge from the Office of Examinations, Department of
Regulation and Licensing, 1400 East Washington Avenue, P.O.
VE 8.02 Qualification for certification. The board may
Box 8935, Madison, WI 53708.
issue a certificate to practice as a veterinary technician to an
(d) Verification of licensure records and status which has
applicant who does all of the following:
been sent directly to the board by every state or country in
(1) Meets the age and training requirements of s. 453.06
which the applicant has ever held a license or certificate to
(3), Stats..
practice veterinary technology.
(2) Has passed an examination consisting of a national
(e) A certificate of completion of the 4 semester program in
written examination and an examination on state laws and rules
veterinary technology at a board approved technical school or
under ch. VE 2. Proof that an applicant has passed the national
college shall be provided by presentation of certification signed
written examination and the examination on state laws and rules
and sealed by the dean of the school submitted directly to the
shall be submitted directly to the board by the department’s office
board by the school, or the applicant shall provide evidence of
of examinations or the interstate reporting service.
meeting the employment requirement under s. 453.06 (3) (b),
(3) Has successfully completed an examination on state
Stats.
laws and rules related to the practice of veterinary technology.
History: Cr. Register, September, 1989, No. 405, eff. 10-1(4) Does not have a conviction record or pending criminal
89; am. (1) (c), Register, June, 1994, No. 462, eff. 7-1-94; am. (1)
charge relating to an offense the circumstances of which
(intro.), (a), (c), (d) and (e), r. (1) (b), Register, December, 1998,
substantially relate to the practice of veterinary technology. An
No. 516, eff. 1-1-99.
applicant who has a conviction record or pending criminal charge
shall request appropriate authorities to provide information directly
VE 8.04 Certification. The board shall review its records
to the board to enable the board to make its determination.
to determine eligibility of the applicant. Within 30 business days
History: Cr. Register, September, 1989, No. 405, eff. 10-1of determining an applicant is eligible for certification, the board
89; am. Register, December, 1998, No. 516, eff. 1-1-99
shall issue a certificate to the applicant.
.
History: Cr. Register, September, 1989, No. 405, eff. 10-1VE 8.03 Application procedures for veterinary
89.
technician applicants. (1) An applicant for a veterinary
Register, August, 2005, No. 5
technician certificate shall file a completed application with the
34
Madison Area Technical College, 1701 Wright St, Madison, WI 53704