Why This Matters
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26% HAVE ASSOCIATE DEGREES
Just over one-fourth of those employed as veterinary technicians report having an associate degree, according to data from O*NET. Another 15% have certificates in the field.
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DEMAND FOR VET TECHS TO INCREASE BY 16%
The demand for techs is expected to rise faster than the average for all occupations — 16% from 2019 to 2029 — as veterinarians continue to rely on vet techs to administer general care and medicine to household pets.
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EARN $36,260 AS A VET TECH
Entry-level vet techs earn a median annual wage of $36,260. The lowest 10% earned less than $25,520, and the highest 10% earned more than $52,410 per year.
Our Research
Certified vet techs must have formal training from a vocational school, hands-on job experience, or a two-year associate degree. Depending on where you live, you will need to become licensed, certified, or registered to work as a vet tech.
The online vet tech programs we reviewed on this list are offered by regionally accredited schools, which promise to meet high academic standards and prepare students for the demands associated with animal healthcare. Most of these two-year degrees require 60 to 80 credit hours to complete. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) accredits vet tech associate programs that promote high standards of achievement in animal health care training. This list also includes regionally accredited schools.
- 71 hours to write this article
- 48 universities and colleges we assessed
- 75 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Associate in Vet Tech Programs
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What You Should Know About This Degree
When considering this career path, it’s important to note the difference between a veterinary technician and a veterinary assistant. While both work together, they are two different occupations with distinct requirements.
Vet assistants don’t require formal training or certification and typically handle clerical duties such as scheduling appointments, caring for animals, and managing the office staff. A vet assistant typically earns less money than a vet tech. The median wage for veterinary assistants is $29,930 per year, and the position requires a high school diploma or equivalency.
After you complete your two-year associate degree, you can take the three-hour Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) provided by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). This certification shows potential employers you have the necessary skills to administer medication and perform complex procedures on household pets.
The job market for vet techs is bright, with employment expected to rise significantly through 2029.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online associate in vet tech programs:
- Are courses offered synchronously or asynchronously? Many online programs typically have two course delivery options. Synchronous courses are designed for students who like to attend class at a designated time from a remote location. Asynchronous classes are suited for students who prefer to access the course materials, lectures, and notes at a time that fits their schedule.
- How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most vet tech students can earn the required credit hours for their online associate degree in two years. Once they earn their degree, they can apply for the Veterinary Technician National Exam.
Once you decide on a vet tech educational program, you must keep track of your admissions application and all necessary deadlines. If you need to finance your vet tech associate degree, you should find out if you qualify for any scholarships, grants, and employer-based tuition repayment plans.
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