Veterinary Science
Credentials:
Topics:
- Animal anatomy and physiology
- Medical terminology and record-keeping
- Common animal diseases and preventive care
- Veterinary pharmacology and drug administration
- Diagnostic procedures and laboratory techniques
- Animal handling and restraint
- Surgical techniques and anesthesia
- Small animal care and management
- Large animal care and management
- Career exploration and job readiness
- And more!
Program Overview
The Veterinary Science program at Collins Career Technical Center is designed for high school students interested in animal care and veterinary medicine. The program provides students with a comprehensive curriculum that covers animal anatomy and physiology, disease prevention and treatment, medical terminology, and laboratory procedures. Students also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through clinical rotations and internships at veterinary clinics and animal shelters. Graduates of the Veterinary Science program are prepared for entry-level positions in the animal care industry. They can also pursue further education in college to become veterinary technicians or veterinarians.
What Do Veterinary Science Graduates Do?
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers typically do the following:
- Feed, bathe, and exercise animals
- Clean and disinfect cages, kennels, and examination and operating rooms
- Restrain animals during examination and laboratory procedures
- Maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment
- Monitor and care for animals after surgery
- Help provide emergency first aid to sick and injured animals
- Give medication or immunizations that veterinarians prescribe
- Assist in collecting blood, urine, and tissue samples
Veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers also provide nursing care before surgery and other medical procedures.
Careers in this Field
Immediate Careers:
- Veterinary Assistant
- Animal Caretaker
- Kennel Assistant
- Groomer
- Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Assistant
- Animal Control Officer
- Stable Hand
- Horse Trainer Assistant
- Laboratory Animal Caretaker
Careers with an Associate's Degree:
- Veterinary Technician
- Animal Behaviorist
- Research Assistant or Technician
- Zookeeper
- Equine Dental Technician
- Wildlife Biologist or Technician
- Laboratory Animal Technician
- Veterinary Practice Manager
- Pet Adoption Counselor
- Animal Health Educator
Careers with a Bachelor's Degree or Beyond:
- Veterinarian
- Animal Physical Therapist
- Animal Nutritionist
- Animal Breeder
- Animal Behavior Consultant
- Wildlife Veterinarian
- Veterinary Specialist (Dermatology, Surgery, etc.)
- Public Health Veterinarian
- Laboratory Animal Scientist or Researcher
- Animal Welfare Advocate