Veterinary Technology

Associate in Applied Science Code: 5017
Contact: Janet Johnson, CVT, Director 309-854-1985; or email agriculture@bhc.edu for information.

New students applying to Black Hawk College should select the AAS/General Occupational and Technical Studies (GOTS) until such time as they have been officially accepted by the department into this program.

The Associate in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology prepares students to perform veterinary procedures under the supervision of a veterinarian. Veterinary technicians are primarily employed in veterinary clinics and hospitals.

Admission Requirements:

1. High school graduation or equivalent.
2. A physical examination prior to any clinical coursework.
3. The applicant will shadow a CVT, LVT, or RVT for a minimum of 40 hours in an animal care facility under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. A completion form must be signed by the CVT, LVT, or RVT and veterinarian prior to application.
4. VT Application Process: students are strongly encouraged to get their application in early, as this selection process begins in January and is very competitive. Applications will be accepted starting September 1st. Applicants are interviewed and reviewed for selection in the order in which the program received their application. The program admits up to 32 students each fall. Applications are available online.
5. Students wishing to apply after March 1st should contact the program director.
6. Interview with VT selection committee: the interview is part of a written and oral selection process.
7. A rabies vaccination is required prior to admission and required by many clinical sites.
8. All students much achieve grades of “C” or above in all courses required for the Veterinary Technology program.
9. Students must achieve a grade of “C” or above in all VT courses to continue in the program. Final grades below a “C” will result in dismissal from the program.

Readmission is at the discretion of the program director and as space permits.

Students must also successfully document all job shadowing, health and background checks required by academic departments and/or clinical sites prior to admission to program and/or courses.