Can you Advance from a Vet Technician to a Veterinarian?
Have you ever wondered if a career as a veterinary technician could serve as a stepping stone to becoming a veterinarian? Transitioning from a veterinary technician to a veterinarian is common for vet techs who are passionate about animal care. While the journey requires further education and commitment, it’s a rewarding path that opens doors to more advanced roles in veterinary medicine.
What a Vet Tech Does (A Recap)
A veterinary technician (also referred to as a vet tech) assists veterinarians in caring for animals. Job duties and responsibilities can include conducting initial exams, administering medications under supervision, assisting in surgeries, taking X-rays, and providing compassionate care.
What a Veterinarian Does (A Recap)
A veterinarian is a licensed medical professional who diagnoses, treats, and prevents illnesses and injuries in animals. Veterinarians perform physical examinations, administer vaccinations, prescribe medications, perform surgeries, and give advice on animal care to owners. Veterinarians can work in private clinics as well as research facilities, zoos, and even government agencies, focusing on animal health and welfare.
The Benefits of Going from Vet Tech to Veterinarian
Because of their hands-on experience and industry knowledge, many vet techs are excellent candidates for veterinary school. Here are some of the specific benefits that help vet techs make the transition from vet tech to veterinarian:
Previous Experience Working With Animals and Clients
Not only does a vet tech have hands-on experience helping and caring for animals, but vet techs also have previous experience working with and communicating with animals’ owners and caregivers.
Industry Connections
Because vet techs have already been working in the veterinary industry, they will already have connections within the industry. These connections can include everyone from veterinarians and clients to vendors and specialized professionals such as surgeons, oncologists, behavior specialists, and more.
Familiarity With the Business
Vet techs already have knowledge and experience with the ins and outs of the veterinary business. For example, veterinary technicians may already have hands-on experience with laboratory techniques and practices, understanding different diagnostic imaging such as MRIs and CT scans, and emergency critical care.
Educational Requirements to Become a Veterinarian
The path to becoming a veterinarian does require commitment and further educational training. Here is an overview of the steps in the process:
A Bachelor’s Degree
Most veterinary schools require applicants to have completed a bachelor’s degree. While a specific major isn’t usually required, veterinary schools do look for coursework in math and sciences such as biology, chemistry, and physics.
A Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine
Aspiring veterinarians will apply to veterinary school using the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), which is a centralized application service for most U.S. veterinary schools. Once accepted into veterinary school, the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program typically lasts four years and includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, animal behavior, surgery, and clinical skills training.
Other Requirements for Veterinarians
In addition to veterinary school, there are some additional requirements for aspiring future veterinarians:
Experience in Animal Care
The more experience, the better: every opportunity to treat and care for animals will make you a stronger veterinary student and a better veterinarian.
Take the NAVLE
The NAVLE (North American Veterinary Licensing Examination) is a comprehensive exam that is required to practice veterinary medicine in both the United States and Canada. The NAVLE is offered twice a year – in April and November – and is a computer-based exam consisting of 360 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers a wide range of topics in veterinary medicine, including small and large animals, surgery, anesthesia, diagnostic imaging, and more.
Choose a Veterinary Specialty
There are many veterinary specialties within veterinary medicine, including:
- Internal medicine
- Surgery
- Emergency and critical care
- Dermatology
- Radiology
- Anesthesiology
- Behavior
- Pathology
- Zoological Medicine
- Ophthalmology
Transitioning from vet tech to a veterinarian involves dedication, additional education, and meeting specific requirements for admission to veterinary school. Many vet techs choose this path because their experience provides a solid foundation for pursuing a career as a veterinarian.
Ready to find a new job or looking for a great way to take charge of your veterinarian career? Find out how Suveto is committed to helping veterinarians own their careers or explore job opportunities online.
