Animal Health Technology

If you care about animals and enjoy working with people, Douglas College's Animal Health Technology program can open the door to a rewarding career.

You'll become a valued member of the veterinary medical profession, working to aid animals as part of a health care team. You'll develop knowledge and skills in many areas of animal health care, animal management and laboratory procedures.

Unique and specialized training

You'll study in the only program of its kind in Greater Vancouver, learning real-world skills with practicing veterinarians. This two-year diploma program provides both theoretical and practical training in animal nursing, assisting veterinarians and performing laboratory, radiology and anesthesia procedures. You'll also train in large animal health technology, qualifying you for work in farming, dairy and animal-breeding settings.

The program is ideal whether you're new to the field or someone with experience who wants a credential to upgrade their career options. Graduates will be eligible to write the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and thus qualify for registration in Canada and in many parts of the United States.

What will I learn?

Developed under the guidelines of the CVMA and BCVMA in consultation with experienced practitioners, Animal Health Technology is an intensive full-time program. Many courses will include both classroom and lab components. You'll study practical skills needed on the job ranging from veterinary anesthesia, radiology and dentistry to administration procedures and workplace communications. Later, you can practice your new skills in optional Co-op placements within worksite settings.

Limited spaces - apply now

This program accepts new students in the Fall semester, but spaces are limited, so it's smart to apply early.

Career Opportunities

With a rising animal population and shortage of local programs, the demand for trained Animal Health Technologists is high. As a graduate of this program, you'll be ready for jobs in:

• Veterinary clinics and hospitals
• Animal shelters and wildlife parks
• Dairy, breeding and large-animal settings
• Zoos and aquariums
• Research facilities

How do I find out more?

Entry into the Animal Health Technology program will include specific prerequisites in Math, Sciences and English. For detailed information on our program, requirements and curriculum, click here or to contact a departmental assistant, call 604-777-6272 or email parfeniuk@douglas.bc.ca.

See the program details and course descriptions in the Douglas College Calendar.