Frequently Asked Questions
Veterinary Technician AAS
What do veterinary technicians actually do?
Veterinary technicians are essential members of the veterinary team, providing skilled nursing care, assisting in diagnostics, surgery, anesthesia, radiology, and laboratory testing, and ensuring the well-being of animals. They work in clinics, hospitals, research, zoos, and industry, applying medical knowledge across multiple species. Beyond technical expertise, vet techs are compassionate caregivers, supporting both animals and their owners in times of need. At PCC, students train hands-on with experts to develop the skills needed for a rewarding and impactful career in veterinary medicine.
Is there a Demand for Veterinary Technicians?
The need for veterinary technicians is rapidly increasing nationwide, including in Southern Arizona, due to rising pet ownership, advancements in veterinary medicine, and a growing demand for quality care. Vet techs play a crucial role in supporting veterinarians, expanding access to medical services, and ensuring efficient, compassionate care for animals. As the demand for veterinary services continues to rise, skilled technicians are more essential than ever.
What ways are veterinary technicians different from veterinarians?
Veterinarians are doctors, responsible for diagnosing conditions, creating treatment plans, and performing complex procedures. Becoming a veterinarian requires years of advanced education, including a bachelor’s degree and acceptance into a highly competitive DVM program.
Veterinary technicians, often compared to nurses, are the ones providing hands-on care—placing IV catheters, administering anesthesia, performing venipuncture, and assisting in treatments. If you’re passionate about direct animal care and want to be the one on the front lines, our Veterinary Technician program is the perfect fit!
How do I know if Vet Tech is right for me?
If you love animals and are passionate about their care and well-being, veterinary technology could be the perfect path for you! Vet techs combine medical knowledge and hands-on skills to diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate animals while educating their owners. If you're intrigued by science, enjoy solving medical challenges, and find fulfillment in helping animals heal, then this career is a great fit. Dedicated, compassionate, and driven? Our program will help you turn your passion into a rewarding profession!
How do the programs compliment each other?
The veterinary service specialist certificate (link to the program page for this) (16 credits) stacks into the veterinary technology degree. The certificate can stand as its own credential and provide learners an advantage when looking for clinical employment. Learners wishing to pursue a career as a veterinary technician (veterinary nurse) will want to apply to the veterinary technology program after (or while enrolled to complete) the certificate.
Can I work while completing this program?
Yes! Our program is hybrid, meaning students complete their hands on lab skills in person with our dedicated instructors, but have more flexibility with their lecture material as it is available online. Most of our students work part or full time, many work in the industry, as they complete their degree!
Are Internships Available?
Yes, degree-seeking students will take part in two 144-hour internships that involve real-world experience in clinical settings.
Are there other program requirements?
This is a limited admissions program, meaning only selective candidates applying for the AAS degree are admitted. In addition, students accepted must document other unique eligibility requirements outlined on the program requirements page here.