This diploma program, formerly known as Animal Health Technology, produces a competent graduate who is an integral part of the veterinary health care team. Extensive handson experience during the two-year program allows students to fully develop skills such as anesthetic monitoring, surgical prepping, radiology, and laboratory analysis in hematology, clinical chemistry and urinalysis. The College farm is also used extensively to teach large animal skills such as obstetrics, treating and handling large animals, and blood collection and pathology.
Students may go on field trips or attend conferences which will expose them to professionals in their chosen field and allow them to network and make contacts within the industry.
The blended option consists of a combination of on-line lectures and mandatory on-campus labs. This combined delivery method is not a self-paced program. Students should expect to spend between 10 to 15 hours per week on lectures and 5 to 7 hours per week on course assigned work. This may include work sheets, quizzes and reading material. Part-time employment in a veterinary practice during this time is encouraged and may be beneficial in helping understand course content but is not a requirement.
Career possibilities are constantly changing and expanding. Second year culminates in a six-week practicum placement in an approved facility with placements ranging all over Canada. A student’s practicum may allow them to gain further exposure to their area of special interest which may include emergency and critical care, oncology, equine medicine or lab animal/wildlife care. Employment opportunities are available in all of these diverse areas.
Admission Requirements:
High school diploma with a minimum of:
- 50% in English 30-1 or 65% in English 30-2
- 50% in Chemistry 30
- 60% in Biology 30
- 60% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2
Out-of-province students or those not meeting the admission requirements should refer to the Admissions section of the website.
Note: Competitive entrance for on-site delivery is in effect and will be based on a combination of academics and a work experience evaluation. Applicants meeting admission requirements will be sent forms to complete the work experience (40 hours). Work experience must be completed at a veterinary clinic prior to the middle of July and within the past two years.
Graduation Requirements:
Students completing the requirements with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 will be awarded a Veterinary Technology diploma.
Accreditation:
This program is fully accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. Active membership with the Alberta Association of Animal Health Technologists (AAAHT) is mandatory for employment as an Animal Health Technologist in Alberta. Students would need to successfully pass the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) after graduation.
Opportunities for Further Study:
- Athabasca University
- University of Lethbridge
Students wishing to transfer to another institution must ensure that they meet the admission requirements of that institution.
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