Offering Campus
Argosy University, Twin Cities
Program Overview
Argosy University offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Veterinary Technology degree program. This program is dedicated to producing high quality, entry level veterinary technicians instilled with the nursing, technical, critical thinking, and communication skills necessary to perform effectively in the veterinary community.
Veterinary technicians provide critical and ongoing care to all types of animals, from companion animals such as dogs, cats, and horses to farm animals and exotic species. Veterinary technicians may choose to specialize or participate in a general practice, serving the healthcare needs of all types of animals.
The AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program requires the satisfactory completion of 69 semester credit hours that includes 21 credit hours of general education, 42 credit hours of program-specific courses, and 6 credit hours of clinical training. Full-time students following the recommended course sequence can complete the program in as little as 21 months. The maximum allowable time frame to complete this program based upon full-time status is 30 months.
Program Learning Outcomes
There are four major end of program learning outcomes for the AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program curriculum. They encompass the acquisition of knowledge, technical skills, critical thinking and communication skills. They are identified as follows:
The AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program graduate will be able to:
- Demonstrate entry-level competency in animal nursing and laboratory skills.
- Employ critical thinking skills in the decision making process of animal nursing and laboratory work.
- Effectively communicate and interact with patients, clients and colleagues.
- Achieve personal development and demonstrate positive relationship skills via effective communication, respect for others, and awareness of their impact on others.
Each of these learning outcomes is further defined by the specific skills identified below:
Outcome One
Demonstrate entry-level competency in animal nursing and laboratory skills.
1.1 Record data; maintain and file clinical records, logbooks and radiographs using methods appropriate for clinical settings.
1.2 Provide a well-maintained, sanitary, and safe environment for animals and humans.
1.3 Handle and restrain animals of various species and health status.
1.4 Collect and handle laboratory samples to obtain reliable lab results.
1.5 Administer medication using various routes.
1.6 Calculate and prepare drug dosages and fluids.
1.7 Properly place and maintain an indwelling catheter and administer fluids consistent with a clinical setting.
1.8 Apply and remove bandages, splints and devices used for patient treatment and procedures.
1.9 Provide life supportive measures for animal medical emergencies.
1.10 Maintain medical instruments and equipment found in a clinical setting.
1.11 Perform all lab procedures with accuracy and precision. This includes complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis (UA), parasitology, blood chemistries, immunological tests, microbiology and cytology.
1.12 Anesthetize and monitor patients using anesthetic delivery systems and monitoring equipment.
1.13 Provide surgical assistance anticipating the surgeon’s needs and ensuring the use of aseptic techniques.
1.14 Perform a routine dental prophylaxis.
1.15 Produce diagnostic radiographs.
Outcome Two
Employ critical thinking skills in the decision making process of animal nursing and laboratory work.
2.1 Synthesize, evaluate, and analyze observations and lab results relating to a patient’s health status and respond properly.
2.2 Evaluate and analyze the needs of patients, clients and coworkers to anticipate, prioritize and respond appropriately.
2.3 Evaluate and analyze work duties to formulate and carry out an organized, timely and effective work plan.
Outcome Three
Effectively communicate and interact with patients, clients and colleagues.
3.1 Demonstrate an understanding and effectively communicate animal medical issues to clients and veterinary health professionals.
3.2 Interact with the general public and the veterinary community in a professional and ethical manner.
3.3 Critically evaluate personal knowledge and abilities and demonstrates the desire to continually improve.
Outcome Four
Achieve personal development and demonstrate positive relationship skills via effective communication, respect for others, and awareness of their impact on others.
4.1 Apply effective listening communication skills in interpersonal and organizational scenarios to establish empathetic and professional relationships.
4.2 Analyze the importance of effective nonverbal communication skills in interpersonal and organizational relationships.
4.3 Solicit and utilize feedback to build and maintain interpersonal and organizational relationships.
4.4 Apply self-assessment skills to prepare for life-long learning and professional growth.
4.5 Demonstrate professional conduct, acceptance of constructive criticism, and interpersonal communication skills with patients, health care professionals and the general public.
4.6 Practice within legal and ethical boundaries and demonstrate responsibility to meet the healthcare needs of patients.
4.7 Develop self-reliance, personal integrity, responsibility and independent problem-solving abilities to adapt to changing environments and demonstrate flexibility when encountering new, unusual, or stressful situations.
4.8 Demonstrate the skills, attributes and behaviors necessary to function as an effective health care provider and as a member of the professional medical community.
Admission Requirements
Students who have successfully completed a program of secondary education or equivalent (GED) are eligible for admission to the AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program. Entrance requirements include one of the following:
- Proof of high school graduation or equivalent (GED)
- ACT composite score of 18 or above, or
- Combined Math and Critical Reading SAT score of 850 or above, or
- Passing score on Argosy University Entrance Exam
- A minimum score on an Argosy University pre-approved English language proficiency test is required for all applicants whose native language is not English or who have not graduated from an institution at which English is the language of instruction as specified in Section Five, Admission Policies, “English Language Proficiency Policy.”
All applications for admission to the AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program must be submitted to the Admissions Department. An admissions representative will help interested applicants complete the following required documentation:
- Student Information Form
- Personal interview
- Completed Application for Admission Form
- Proof of high school graduation or GED
- SAT, ACT, or Argosy University Entrance Exam score and pre-approved English language proficiency exam score (if applicable)
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary schools attended
- Clinical Training Agreement
- Technical Standards Form
- Health forms
Allied health professionals perform a wide range of physical tasks and assignments, and they must accept certain risks that are inherent in healthcare delivery. In applying for admission to Argosy University, prospective students are given information regarding these tasks, and applicants agree that they are capable of and willing to perform these tasks and assume these risks.
Graduation Requirements
- Satisfactory completion of all requirements in the program of study
- Completion of all General Education courses with a grade of 70%or better and completion of all program specific courses with a minimum of 75%.
- Successful completion of all clinical competencies
- Completion of five animal care rotations
- A completed Petition to Graduate submitted to campus administration
- Students must also be current on all financial obligations in order to receive official final transcripts.
AAS in Veterinary Technology Degree Program Requirements
The AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program requires the satisfactory completion of 69 semester credit hours according to the sequence outlined below.
Program Credit Hour Distribution
- General Education (21)
- Program-Specific (42)
- Clinical Training (6)
Clinical Training Requirement
Clinical Veterinary Training (VET 290 ) is a three-month, full-time internship. Students are in-residence at a veterinary facility during this phase of training. A sample list of clinical training sites is available upon request. All didactic coursework MUST be completed prior to clinical training.
AAS in Veterinary Technology Degree Program Optional Additional Courses:
Students in the AAS in Veterinary Technology degree program may take additional optional courses that provide instruction in specific areas of veterinary technology. These courses are not included in the total number of courses required for graduation. The optional veterinary technology courses do not satisfy the general education elective requirements.
Optional Additional Courses
Notes:
VET electives do not fulfill the General Education electives requirements.
† VET 250 , 260 , and 270 denotes a wildlife track. Completion of two of the three courses will qualify students to receive a letter of recognition stating that they have successfully completed additional studies in wildlife.
