Accreditation
American Veterinary Medical Association,
Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (AVMA-CVTEA)
1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360
800-248-2862
https://www.avma.org/education/center-for-veterinary-accreditation/accreditation-veterinary-technicians
The Committee on Veterinary Technical Education and Activities (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) granted initial accreditation to Westchester Community College’s Veterinary Technology program, effective March 14, 2014. The program was elevated to full accreditation, effective April 2020. Accreditation will remain in effect as long as the program continues to meet AVMA CVTEA Standards of Accreditation.
Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE)
A passing grade on the Veterinary Technician National Exam, is required for licensure in New York State. Students within 6 months of graduation and graduates of an AVMA-accredited Veterinary Technology Program (or a program registered by the New York State Education Department) can register to take this exam. The following chart displays the pass/success rate, of first-time test takers for the past three academic years (from July through June of each year):
Pass Rates for 2021–2024
| Number of eligible first-time candidates that took the VTNE |
40 |
| Three-year pass percentage on VTNE |
60% |
Program Description
Veterinary technology is the art and science of using an understanding of basic animal science, biological testing, and animal behavior to assist the veterinarian in the care of animals. The program prepares graduates to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) and seek employment in animal/veterinary-related fields. In the state of New York, individuals who complete a Veterinary Technology program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), achieve a passing grade on the VTNE and are of good moral standing are eligible to apply for licensure.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, a student will:
- Demonstrate the ability to apply theoretical concepts to veterinary care decisions consistently.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the design of modern nursing technologies and its application to veterinary care.
- Demonstrate professionalism in dealing with patients and clients.
- Demonstrate the ability to function as a member of a veterinary care team.
- Demonstrate the ability to communicate well, orally and in writing, in veterinary care situations.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply critical and analytic thinking in veterinary care situations.
- Demonstrate the competency needed to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
Program Note
Pre-requisites: The following four courses need to be completed to be considered for acceptance into the Veterinary Technology program. (Transfer credits earned prior to attendance at Westchester Community College may also be considered if they meet acceptable equivalency.)
Required Pre-exposure Rabies Vaccination: Students in the Veterinary Technology program are required to obtain pre-exposure rabies vaccination prior to the beginning of their curriculum. Immunization for rabies consists of a series of three vaccinations administered over a three week period. The estimated cost for the series of rabies vaccinations is approximately $1500 (price varies year to year based on the supplier). https://www.sunywcc.edu/CMS/wp-content/documents/Mandatory-Rabies-Vaccination-Letter.pdf
Required Screening: Following acceptance and prior to admittance, students must complete a successful criminal background check. Drug screening is also required prior to admittance into any clinical experience. Screening is mandatory, and all expenses are the responsibility of the student. Any screening may be required to be repeated at the request of the Department Chair at any point during the program.
Clinical Experiences: Some laboratory classes, and clinical externships and experiences, are held off campus at affiliated animal-related facilities. Travel to and from these facilities is an expectation of this program and is the student’s responsibility. Faculty/staff are not permitted to transport students.
Educational Progress: Students are expected to obtain a “C” in all non-Veterinary Technology coursework, and a “C+” in all Veterinary Technology coursework. A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required at the end of each semester.
A grade below a “C+” in any Veterinary Technology course is considered failing. Any student who fails or withdraws from a course can apply for re-admittance to the program for one additional attempt. Any student who fails a second course will be subject to academic dismissal from the program.
Professional Conduct: Professional and ethical conduct are an important component of this program and are expected to be upheld to continue in and graduate from this program.
Program Requirements
69 credits are required for the degree:
- General Education - 20 credits
- Required Degree Courses - 49 credits
General Education Requirements - 20 Credits
Where specific courses are not listed within the categories above, courses must be selected from the list of all General Education Courses .
Required Degree Courses - 49 credits
Program Map
The program map is a recommended semester-by-semester schedule of courses based on degree requirements and serve as a general guideline to help students complete their program in two years. Although designed for full-time enrollment, these are easily adaptable for part-time study. For additional, individualized guidance, students should review Degree Works and consult an Academic Counselor or Faculty Advisor to ensure they are on track to complete their program.
Program Prerequisites
These courses must be completed to be considered for acceptance into the program:
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3 (Summer)
Semester 4
Semester 5
Minimum Total Credits: 69
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