nurse in lab

Veterinary Technology A.A.S.

Designed to meet the needs of the regional veterinary community, this program provides you with both the classroom and field instruction to become a Veterinary Technician. Learn animal anatomy and physiology, and animal nutrition, as well as skills in radiology, anesthesia, large and small animal handling, pathology, pharmacology, microbiology, parasitology, and behavioral medicine.
You’ll also gain laboratory experience in a clinical setting and attend a mandatory four-day Farm Camp at SUNY Delhi to gain large animal laboratory experience. Students must also participate in a two-and-a-half-day Research Animal Technology (RAT) Camp at SUNY Delhi as their laboratory animal experience. For those who love animals, this program will set you up for a rewarding career. This program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
Associate of Applied Science

After SUNY Ulster

Upon satisfactory completion of the program, graduates will have all the required AVMA clinical skills to enter the workforce as a Vet Tech. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) allowing them to receive their New York State license and to use the title of Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT).

Reporting Data

January 1, 2023- December 31, 2025 Reporting Data

Data

Rates

Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE within one year of graduation

42 first time test takers
25 passed

Three-year VTNE pass rate percentage

62.04%

National Average

64.05%

Annual Graduate Rate

40%

Annual Job Placement Rate

95%

 

woman looking into microscope

Course Info

65-66 Credits Courses by Semester

The Veterinary A.A.S. program consists of 65 credits (not including VTS 147, which can be taken as an elective course) if students take BIO 101. Transferring in or taking BIO 105 will lead to the student taking 66 credits.

Paying For College

Tuition & Fees Financial Aid Scholarships

Employment Potential for Animal Office Assistants

 
  • Safely restrain animals during exams and procedure
  • Feed, bathe, groom, and exercise animals
  • Clean cages, kennels, and exam rooms
  • Observe animal behavior and report concerns to the veterinarian or technician
  • Prepare exam rooms 
  • Sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
  • Hand tools and supplies to the veterinarian or veterinary technician
  • Hold animals during exams, blood draws, or X-ray

(They do not diagnose illnesses, prescribe medications, or perform surgery.)

  • Administer medications as directed (oral or topical, depending on state laws)
  • Collect samples (urine, feces) for testing
  • Schedule appointments
  • Answer phone calls and greet clients
  • Maintain medical records
  • Explain basic care instructions to pet owners
  • Handle billing and payments
  • Disinfect equipment and surfaces
  • Stock medical supplies
  • Ensure the clinic meets cleanliness and safety standards

Veterinary assistants often work in:

  • Private animal clinics
  • Emergency veterinary hospitals
  • Animal shelters
  • Research facilities
  • Boarding facilities

They often work closely with veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians to ensure animals receive proper care.

Explore More Programs

Delve into more programs in the Health Sciences Pathway until you find the one right for you.

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Get in Touch

Reach out to our Enrollment & Success team today if you have any questions.

(845) 687-5022
Graduating students with faculty at graduation

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