VET100 - Introduction to Veterinary Technology
The Veterinary Technology Program acquaints students with a range of concepts and expectations. Participants are introduced to medical terminology, basic scientific principles, and the various career opportunities available to veterinary technicians within animal healthcare. The program provides a comprehensive overview of different breeds of companion and farm animals, while also exploring the general principles of animal behavior, equipment and management, and legal regulations at the county, state, and federal levels. Furthermore, students are given a fundamental understanding of health and disease concepts through preliminary investigation. The program emphasizes the importance of the human-animal bond, underscoring its significance in the field of veterinary medicine.
Credits: 3
VET116 - Applied Mathematics for Veterinary Technology
This course emphasizes the mathematical concepts and skills used in the practice of Veterinary Technology. Topics include dosage calculations, fractions, percentages, percent solutions, fluid therapy and CRI’s, utilizing metric system, dimensional analysis, scientific notation, unit conversions, equations and graphs as they apply to the health sciences. Emphasis will be placed on how these techniques are used in the administration of medications and treatments for patient use.
Credits: 1
VET120 Introduction to Laboratory Animal Science
Prerequisite: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116 with a C or better
Co- requisites: VET120L
This course provides comprehensive instruction on the responsible and ethical handling, care, and use of laboratory animals. Topics covered include taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, as well as applicable laws and regulations. In addition, the curriculum explores alternatives to animal research. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 120), the laboratory/vivarium (VET 120 L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 2
VET120L Introduction to Laboratory Animal Science Lab
Prerequisite: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116 with a C or better
Corequisite: VET120
The laboratory component of the course focuses on fundamental techniques for handling, restraining, and performing common procedures on small mammals. Recognition of health and disease through the animal care rotation (vivarium) is an important aspect of this course. Note: The animal care rotation will require additional time besides scheduled class and laboratory hours for vivarium duty. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 120), the laboratory (VET 120 L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET126 Parasitology
Prerequisite: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116
Corequisite: VET126L
This veterinary course studies ectoparasites and endoparasites, including their classification, life cycle, pathogenesis, control, and impact on human health and welfare. Laboratory identification and diagnostic procedures are taught in the lab. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 126) and laboratory (VET 126L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 2
VET126L Parasitology Lab
Prerequisite: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116
Corequisite: VET126
This veterinary course studies ectoparasites and endoparasites, including identification and diagnostic procedures. Note: must be registered for lecture (VET 126) and laboratory (VET 126L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET230 Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians
Prerequisites: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116
This course covers foundational chemistry and the use of drugs in veterinary medicine, including maintenance, dispensing, inventory, drug mechanisms of action, dosages, routes of administration, and toxic effects of veterinary-related drugs. Students practice converting weights and calculating drug doses.
Credits: 3
VET177 Clinical Experience I
Prerequisites: BIO116, BIO170/L, VET100 and VET 116
Corequisite: VET120/L
This is the first in a series of three clinical courses. This course will introduce the student to the personnel and operations of a veterinary facility. The student will observe the daily functions including appointments, nursing care, treatment, surgery, and diagnostics including imaging and laboratory procedures. The student will gain a greater understanding of the duties and responsibilities of veterinary technician through the observance of real clinical cases.
This course will require a minimum of 70 clinical hours.
Throughout the program, all Veterinary Technology students will be required to spend at least 234 hours in a clinical atmosphere to practice hands-on essential skills in their chosen sites.
Online students are required to spend additional hours in a clinical setting throughout their clinical lab courses.
Credits: 1
VET202 Small Animal Diseases and Nutrition
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET202L
Proper restraint and care for dogs and cats are covered, including physical and chemical methods. The course also covers common diseases, nutrition for both healthy and ill pets, and procedures for raising orphan puppies and kittens and administering proper vaccinations. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 202) and laboratory/Kennel (VET 202L) in the same semester. Additional student time and assignments may be required outside of scheduled class and laboratory hours. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 3
VET202L Small Animal Diseases and Nutrition Lab
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET202
Proper restraint and care for dogs and cats are covered, including physical and chemical methods. The course also covers common diseases, nutrition for both healthy and ill pets, and procedures for raising orphan puppies and kittens and administering proper vaccinations. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 202) and laboratory/Kennel (VET 202L) in the same semester. Additional student time and assignments may be required outside of scheduled class and laboratory hours. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET204 Veterinary Clinical Laboratory Techniques
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET204L
This course covers the analysis of blood, urine, and feces for the DVM to diagnosis and prognosis. Lectures will focus on the physiological responses to disease and the effects of disease on measurable substances produced by the body. The course will also discuss the collection, storage, and handling of laboratory specimens, as well as general laboratory management procedures including safety and quality control. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 204) and laboratory (VET 204L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 3
VET204L Veterinary Clinical Laboratory Techniques Lab
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET204
The course will focus on laboratory specimen collection, storage, handling, management procedures, safety, and quality control. It will also emphasize on common analytical procedures used in veterinary medicine for diagnostic and prognostic purposes, such as blood, urine, and feces examination. Additionally, uncommon procedures will be discussed and demonstrated. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 204) and laboratory (VET 204L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET208 Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET208L
Students will learn about x-ray production theory, the x-ray machine, and how to produce high-quality diagnostic images. Students will learn about NYS Radiation Safety regulations, contrast media and special techniques, producing and interpreting electrocardiograms, and using ultrasonography in veterinary medicine. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 208) and laboratory (VET 208L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 2
VET208L Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging Lab
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET208
Students will learn about x-ray production theory and practical aspects of producing diagnostic radiographs. Emphasis will be placed on correcting common problems in technique and positioning to produce high-quality images. NYS radiation safety regulations will be followed. Additionally, students will gain experience with contrast media, special techniques, electrocardiograms (ECG), and ultrasonography in veterinary medicine. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 208) and laboratory (VET 208L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET237 Dentistry for Veterinary Technicians
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177, and VET230
Corequisite: VET237L
In this comprehensive course on veterinary dentistry, students will learn practical techniques that are essential for recognizing and treating dental problems in animals. The course places a strong emphasis on developing a thorough understanding of dental and paradental anatomy, which is critical for identifying and addressing a wide variety of dental issues. Through a range of clinical applications, students will gain valuable insights into dental pathology, radiology, extractions, and periodontal disease, all of which are key areas of responsibility for veterinary technicians. By the end of this course, students will have acquired a deep and practical knowledge of veterinary dentistry that will serve them well in their future professional endeavors. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 237) and laboratory (VET 237L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 2
VET237L Dentistry for Veterinary Technicians Lab
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177 and VET230
Corequisite: VET237
This veterinary dentistry course teaches practical techniques for recognizing and treating dental problems in animals. Students gain expertise in dental anatomy, radiology, extractions, and periodontal disease, all critical areas for veterinary technicians. By the course end, students have acquired practical knowledge of veterinary dentistry for use in their professional careers. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 237) and laboratory (VET 237L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET277 Clinical Experience II
Prerequisites: VET120/L, VET126/L, VET177 and VET230
Corequisite: VET204/L
This is the second in a series of three clinical courses. The student will focus in the areas of small animal handling, laboratory procedures, treatment, diagnostic imaging, and dentistry. Students will develop practical skills as they actively participate in the care of actual cases in a clinical setting.
This course will require a minimum of 70 clinical hours. The primary objective is to introduce the concepts of veterinary medicine and the duties and responsibilities of a Veterinary Technician by seeing and participating in actual cases. Familiarization with and appreciation for the role of the Veterinary Technician in a practical, applied atmosphere.
Throughout the program, all Veterinary Technology students will be required to spend at least 234 hours in a clinical atmosphere to practice hands-on essential skills in their chosen sites.
Online students are required to spend additional hours in a clinical setting throughout their clinical lab courses.
Credits: 1
VET222 Large Animal Diseases and Nutrition
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET222L
This course will cover the states of wellness and disease in large animals regarding nutrition, anatomy, physiology, treatment, prevention, and control. It will also explore reproductive physiology and management, herd management, and the husbandry of equine, bovine, porcine, and small ruminants, as well as present common procedures and vaccination protocols for large animals. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 222) and laboratory (VET 222L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 3
VET222L Large Animal Diseases and Nutrition Lab
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET222
This course will cover the states of wellness and disease in large animals regarding nutrition, anatomy, physiology, treatment, prevention, and control. It will also explore reproductive physiology and management, herd management, and the husbandry of equine, bovine, porcine, and small ruminants, as well as present common procedures and vaccination protocols for large animals. Common procedures and vaccination protocols for large animals will be presented and practiced in the lab. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 222) and laboratory (VET 222L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET224 Surgical Nursing and Anesthesia
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET224L
This course covers surgical theory, pre-operative and post-operative patient care, aseptic technique, sterilization processes, and anesthesiology. Students will also learn about monitoring patients while under anesthesia and will be required to complete assignments outside of class and lab hours. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 224) and laboratory/animal care (VET 224L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 3
VET224L Surgical Nursing and Anesthesia Lab
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET224
This course covers surgical theory, pre-operative and post-operative care, aseptic technique, surgical instruments, sterilization processes, and anesthesiology with an emphasis on patient monitoring. Students will have additional assignments outside of class hours. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET 224) and laboratory/animal care (VET 224L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET206 Exotics & Pathology
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET206L
This course introduces students to the handling, husbandry, and diseases of exotic pets such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Additionally, the examination of cells, tissues, organs, and cadavers is essential in veterinary medicine. The course explains the role of necropsy as a learning experience and explores reproductive and diagnostic cytology and histology as well as topics of toxicology and epidemiology. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET206) and laboratory (VET206L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 2
VET206L Exotics & Pathology Lab
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET206
This course introduces students to common exotic pets, covering handling, husbandry, diseases, immobilization techniques, and laboratory procedures, including specimen collection. Class experiences may involve birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Additionally, the course covers necropsy techniques for small animals and avian species, as well as reproductive and diagnostic cytology and histology. Note: Must be registered for lecture (VET206) and laboratory (VET206L) in the same semester. Must pass both lecture and lab to progress in the program, if one portion is failed, the failed course will need to be repeated and successfully passed to progress in the program.
Credits: 1
VET226 Practice Management
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
The veterinary hospital is a multifaceted institution, serving both medical and business purposes. One key player in this setting is the veterinary technician, who can perform a pivotal role in ensuring smooth operations. This involves various areas of expertise, such as managing human relations with clients and colleagues, applying basic business principles, maintaining medical records, handling financial transactions, overseeing ordering and inventory, supervising staff, and providing optimal care for animals in the hospital setting. Additionally, the utilization of computerization and its application in the veterinary office is subject to investigation. All of these topics will be covered in this course.
Credits: 2
VET271 VTNE Review
Prerequisite: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET222/L, VET 224/L
This course is designed to provide a comprehensive review of the program by incorporating hands-on clinical experiences with prior clinical case coursework. The main objective is to assess the proficiency of skills and knowledge obtained from previous courses and clinical experiences by reviewing actual medical situations encountered during clinical rotations. The primary emphasis will be on understanding the role and responsibilities of a licensed Veterinary Technician, with a focus on the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) domains. The final assessment will be a cumulative exam designed to simulate the VTNE.
Credits: 2
VET278 Clinical Experience III
Prerequisites: VET 202/L, 204/L, 208/L, 237/L, 277
Corequisite: VET222/L, VET224/L
This is the third and final course in a series of three clinical experiences where observation and performing the tasks of a Veterinary Technician at an animal facility in such areas as surgery, anesthesia, treatment, radiology, laboratory, and general facility operations are continued. The student will focus in the areas of surgical nursing, anesthesia, and emergency medicine.
This course will require a minimum of 94 clinical hours. The primary objective is to introduce the concepts of veterinary medicine and the duties and responsibilities of a Veterinary Technician by seeing and participating in actual cases. Familiarization with and appreciation for the role of the Veterinary Technician in a practical, applied atmosphere.
Throughout the program, all Veterinary Technology students will be required to spend at least 234 hours in a clinical atmosphere to practice hands-on essential skills in their chosen sites.
Online students are required to spend additional hours in a clinical setting throughout their clinical lab courses.
Credits: 1
**Clinical Experience Seminar
All students will be assigned to the seminar in their first semester.
Seminar Description: This seminar is designed to introduce the student to the responsibilities and expectations of participating in the care of live animals in both private practice facilities and on-campus laboratories. The course will cover the essential skills that must be completed in order to be eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) and become credentialed. Additional topics will include the student’s role in the clinical setting, the scope of practice of the veterinary technician, and licensing/certification procedures. Successful completion of this seminar is required in the first semester.