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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Veterinary Technology

Veterinary Technology

Overview

The Cosumnes River College Veterinary Technology program does not provide veterinary medical services to the public.

CRC's Veterinary Technology Associate of Science Degree program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). The program offers a rigorous and rewarding academic curriculum along with ample hands-on experience.

Veterinary Technicians work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian assisting in a variety of tasks including collection of laboratory specimens and performing laboratory procedures; providing specialized nursing care; preparing animals, instruments, and equipment for surgery; assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures; exposing and developing radiographs (X-rays); advising and educating animal owners; supervising and training practice personnel; and performing dental prophylaxes. Most veterinary technicians work in private veterinary practices, but they may also work in biomedical research, military service, food safety inspection, teaching, zoo animal and wildlife care, diagnostic laboratory support, veterinary supply sales, animal control and humane society animal care, and drug and feed company technical service and sales. (source: AVMA.org) RVTs are trained professionals who have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and who have subsequently obtained licensure. The CRC Veterinary Technology program is not intended to be a pre-veterinary program for students who want to pursue a doctorate degree to become a veterinarian. CRC counselors are available to help students navigate their choice of program.

CRC's Veterinary Technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and upon earning an A.S. degree in Veterinary Technology, graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).

Most states, including California, require official licensing or certification of veterinary technicians. To become a licensed RVT in California, graduates earning the A.S. degree must:

  • Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination
  • Obtain fingerprint clearance (Live scan) and pass a background check
  • Pay licensing fees to the California Veterinary Medical Board. (More information can be found at vmb.ca.gov)

AVMA
1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100
Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360
(800) 248-2862
AVMA Accredited Programs

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.S. in Veterinary Technology
  • Veterinary Technology Certificate

Associate Degree

A.S. in Veterinary Technology

CRC's Veterinary Technology Associate of Science Degree program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). The program offers a rigorous and rewarding academic curriculum along with ample hands-on experience.


Veterinary Technicians work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian assisting in a variety of tasks including collection of laboratory specimens and performing laboratory procedures; providing specialized nursing care; preparing animals, instruments, and equipment for surgery; assisting in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures; exposing and developing radiographs (X-rays); advising and educating animal owners; supervising and training practice personnel; and performing dental prophylaxes. Most veterinary technicians work in private veterinary practices, but they may also work in biomedical research, military service, food safety inspection, teaching, zoo animal and wildlife care, diagnostic laboratory support, veterinary supply sales, animal control and humane society animal care, and drug and feed company technical service and sales. (source: AVMA.org) RVTs are trained professionals who have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and who have subsequently obtained licensure. The CRC Veterinary Technology program is not intended to be a pre-veterinary program for students who want to pursue a doctorate degree to become a veterinarian. CRC counselors are available to help students navigate their choice of program.

CRC's Veterinary Technology program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association and upon earning an A.S. degree in Veterinary Technology, graduates are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).

Most states, including California, require official licensing or certification of veterinary technicians. To become a licensed RVT in California, graduates earning the A.S. degree must:

• Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination
• Obtain fingerprint clearance (Live scan) and pass a background check
• Pay licensing fees to the California Veterinary Medical Board. (More information can be found at vmb.ca.gov)

Program highlights include:

• Accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association for over 50 years.
• Long-tenured, approachable, and knowledgeable faculty and staff
• Affordable community college program
• Well-equipped facilities
• Diversity of animal species available for instruction
• Collaboration with UC Davis for large animal instruction
• Outdoor exercise and enrichment area for dogs
• Enthusiastic and supportive student body
• Excellent pass rates on the VTNE


PROGRAM SCHEDULE (A.S. Degree):

Students must follow the program schedule in order and must pass all courses in each semester with a "C" or better to advance to the next semester. Each VT course is offered once per year in either the spring or fall semester. A student's progress will be delayed by one year if a course is missed or must be repeated.

* SEMESTER 1 (Fall): VT 100, VT 111
* SEMESTER 2 (Spring): VT 110, VT 113, VT 152
* SEMESTER 3 (Summer): VT 298**
* SEMESTER 4 (Fall): VT 120, VT 122, VT 126, VT 298**
* SEMESTER 5 (Spring): VT123, VT 130, VT 131, VT 134


**VT 298 Work Experience: All students must complete 300 hours of work experience at a program-approved veterinary facility. VT 298 is only offered in the summer and fall semesters and is open to students progressing into their second year of the program.


All students are required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts will be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
First Year (Fall):
VT 100 Introduction to Veterinary Technology 31
VT 111 Anatomy-Physiology of Animals 42
First Year (Spring):
VT 152 Introduction to Laboratory Animals and Caged Birds 23
VT 110 Veterinary Office Practice 34
VT 113 Clinical Laboratory Techniques for Veterinary Technicians 45
Second Year (Fall):
VT 120 Pharmacology and Anesthesiology for the Veterinary Technician 46
VT 122 Animal Disease: Pathology 37
VT 126 Dentistry for the Veterinary Technician 1.58
Second Year (Spring):
VT 123 Large Animal Disease: Pathology 39
VT 130 Advanced Veterinary Technology 410
VT 131 Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging 311
VT 134 Large Animal Nursing 1.512
Summer Between First and Second Year; and Second Year (Fall):
VT 298 Work Experience in Veterinary Technology 0.5 -413
Total Units: 36.5 - 40

1Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

2Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

3Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

4Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

5Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

6Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

7Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

8Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

9Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

10Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

11Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

12Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

13All students must complete a minimum of 300 hours (4-5 total units) of work experience. Students in a paid work experience earn one unit per 75 hours worked. Students in an unpaid work experience earn one unit per 60 hours worked. VT 298 may be repeated when there is new or expanded learning on the job.

The Veterinary Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See CRC graduation requirements.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Completion of BIOL 400 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of BIOL 440 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of the online application.
  • Submission of a copy of high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of official transcripts reflecting pre-requisite completion.
  • Submission of proof of pre-exposure rabies vaccination prior to the first day of the first semester.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Up to 30 eligible students are randomly drawn and admitted to the program only once a year in the fall semester. Final selection is made after the application deadline, and applicants will be notified by email of acceptance or non-acceptance by mid-July.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Use the principles of pharmacology to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 2: Provide veterinary nursing care and surgical assistance in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 3: Use the principles of radiology to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 4: Perform clinical laboratory duties within a veterinary hospital.
  • PSLO 5: Use the principles of veterinary dentistry to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 6: Perform clerical duties within a veterinary hospital.
  • PSLO 7: Provide safe, humane, and effective care for common laboratory animals used in animal research.
  • PSLO 8: Provide safe, humane, and effective care for birds, reptiles, amphibians, rabbits, and guinea pigs.

Career Information

Most veterinary technicians are employed in private practice, but the demand for technicians is rapidly expanding and includes new employment opportunities in human and animal health-related areas and specialties such as biomedical research, military service, food safety inspection, teaching, zoo animal and wildlife care, diagnostic laboratory support, veterinary supply sales, animal control and humane society animal care, and drug and feed company technical service and sales. (source: AVMA.org)

Certificate of Achievement

Veterinary Technology Certificate

CRC's Veterinary Technology Certificate program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue employment as an unlicensed veterinary assistant or to pursue the California Veterinary Medical Board's (VMB) alternate route to licensure as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). The program offers a rigorous and rewarding academic curriculum along with ample hands-on experience.

Unlicensed veterinary assistants support veterinarians and RVTs in their daily tasks. Veterinary assistants' duties include performing kennel work, assisting in the restraint and handling of animals, and performing clerical duties. There is no required credentialing exam for unlicensed veterinary assistants. RVTs are trained professionals who have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and who have subsequently obtained licensure. The CRC Veterinary Technology program is not intended to be a pre-veterinary program for students who want to pursue a doctorate degree to become a veterinarian. CRC counselors are available to help students navigate their choice of program.

Students who wish to pursue an RVT license through the California VMB's alternate route are encouraged to research the requirements on the VMB's applicant website: https://vmb.ca.gov/applicants/rvt_forms.shtml

In summary, the alternate route to California licensure includes:

• Extensive practical experience as an unlicensed veterinary assistant and submission of a comprehensive task list and proof of experience form.
•Proof of required educational coursework including official transcripts, certificates of completion, course descriptions or outlines, and hours completed.
•Verification of passing the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
Fingerprint clearance (Live scan) and background check.
Payment of licensing fees to the California Veterinary Medical Board.
•Most students who are seeking a career as a licensed RVT find it easiest to complete the CRC Veterinary Technology A.S. degree.


Veterinary Technology Program highlights include:

• Accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association for over 50 years.
• Long-tenured, approachable, and knowledgeable faculty and staff
• Affordable community college program
• Well-equipped facilities
• Diversity of animal species available for instruction
• Collaboration with UC Davis for large animal instruction
• Outdoor exercise and enrichment area for dogs
• Enthusiastic and supportive student body
• Excellent pass rates on the VTNE


PROGRAM SCHEDULE (Certificate):

Students must follow the program schedule in order and must pass all courses in each semester with a "C" or better to advance to the next semester. Each VT course is offered once per year in either the spring or fall semester. A student's progress will be delayed by one year if a course is missed or must be repeated.

* SEMESTER 1 (Fall): VT 100, VT 111
* SEMESTER 2 (Spring): VT 110, VT 113, VT 152
* SEMESTER 4 (Fall): VT 120, VT 122, VT 126
* SEMESTER 5 (Spring): VT123, VT 130, VT 131, VT 134


All students are required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts will be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
VT 100 Introduction to Veterinary Technology 31
VT 111 Anatomy-Physiology of Animals 42
VT 110 Veterinary Office Practice 33
VT 113 Clinical Laboratory Techniques for Veterinary Technicians 44
VT 152 Introduction to Laboratory Animals and Caged Birds 25
VT 120 Pharmacology and Anesthesiology for the Veterinary Technician 46
VT 122 Animal Disease: Pathology 37
VT 126 Dentistry for the Veterinary Technician 1.58
VT 123 Large Animal Disease: Pathology 39
VT 130 Advanced Veterinary Technology 410
VT 131 Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging 311
VT 134 Large Animal Nursing 1.512
Total Units: 36

1Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

2Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

3Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

4Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

5Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

6Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

7Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

8Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

9Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

10Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

11Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

12Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Enrollment Eligibility

To be eligible for enrollment in the program, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Completion of BIOL 400 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of BIOL 440 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Completion of the online application.
  • Submission of a copy of high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Submission of official transcripts reflecting pre-requisite completion.
  • Submission of proof of pre-exposure rabies vaccination prior to the first day of the first semester.

Enrollment Process

Eligible students are selected for the program according to the following steps:

  • Up to 30 eligible students are randomly drawn and admitted to the program only once a year in the fall semester. Final selection is made after the application deadline, and applicants will be notified by email of acceptance or non-acceptance by mid-July.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • PSLO 1: Use the principles of pharmacology to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 2: Provide veterinary nursing care and surgical assistance in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 3: Use the principles of radiology to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 4: Perform clinical laboratory duties within a veterinary hospital.
  • PSLO 5: Use the principles of veterinary dentistry to assist the veterinarian in a clinical setting.
  • PSLO 6: Perform clerical duties within a veterinary hospital.
  • PSLO 7: Provide safe, humane, and effective care for common laboratory animals used in animal research.
  • PSLO 8: Provide safe, humane, and effective care for birds, reptiles, amphibians, rabbits, and guinea pigs.

Career Information

Most veterinary assistants and technicians are employed in private practice, but the demand for technicians is rapidly expanding and includes new employment opportunities in human and animal health-related areas and specialties such as biomedical research, military service, food safety inspection, teaching, zoo animal and wildlife care, diagnostic laboratory support, veterinary supply sales, animal control and humane society animal care, and drug and feed company technical service and sales. (source: AVMA.org)

Veterinary Technology (VT) Courses

VT 100 Introduction to Veterinary Technology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must be a high school graduate or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This orientation course reviews the history, training and career opportunities pertaining to Registered Veterinary Technicians. Animal behavior, handling, training and restraint will be presented and discussed in the lecture periods. Laboratories will provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with domestic, farm, laboratory and non-domestic animal species (when they are available). Students will be introduced to the medical terminology common to the animal health care field. Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks. Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 110 Veterinary Office Practice

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Advisory:Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CISC 302.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A veterinary practice-oriented course that explores hospital and clinic management procedures, business and professional aspects of practice, ethical and legal considerations for the Registered Veterinary Technician and their employer, and veterinary medical terminology. Students will be introduced to OSHA requirements and regulations as they pertain to veterinary medical settings.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 111 Anatomy-Physiology of Animals

  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in VT 100 (may be taken previously)
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a study of the basic anatomy and physiology of common domestic animals, including dogs, cats, horses, swine and ruminants. The information will be organized according to body systems. Within each system, the variation between species will be explored. Whenever possible, topics will be related to pertinent veterinary situations. Laboratory sessions will include dissection of animal cadavers.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts in the care of the colony animals. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 113 Clinical Laboratory Techniques for Veterinary Technicians

  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 100 and 111 with grades of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

In this course, students will develop knowledge and skills related to clinical laboratory concepts including specimen collection, parasitology, cytology, urinalysis, microbiology, hematology, serology and record keeping. Selection, use and maintenance of laboratory equipment will be discussed. Students will perform a variety of diagnostic sampling techniques. Laboratory safety will be discussed.
Laboratories will include using live animals and equipment for student learning and demonstration of hands-on skills.



Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 120 Pharmacology and Anesthesiology for the Veterinary Technician

  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 110, 113, and 152 with grades of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

In this course, students will develop knowledge and skills related to pharmacology, veterinary anesthesiology and surgical assisting. Veterinary pharmacology concepts including drug classification, mechanisms of action, methods of administration, prescribing and dispensing will be introduced. Prescription, over-the-counter and scheduled drugs will be discussed. Students will learn how to perform and monitor veterinary anesthesia and practice related skills in the laboratory setting. Students will learn about veterinary surgical instrumentation, aseptic technique, surgical assisting and patient care. Application of knowledge will take place in surgical assisting labs where students demonstrate hands-on skills under the direct supervision of a licensed program veterinarian and Registered Veterinary Technician. Laboratories will include using live animals and equipment for student learning and demonstration of hands-on skills.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts in the care of the colony animals. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this is course limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 122 Animal Disease: Pathology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:VT 110, 113, 152, and 298 with grades of "C" or better; A minimum of 1 unit of VT 298 (Work Experience in Veterinary Technology) with a grade of "C" or better is required. Prior to taking VT 122, students should have experience in a clinical setting, animal handling, client communication, collecting samples and basic diagnostic modalities including auscultation, radiology, sample preparation, etc.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information. If the course is offered online, all colony animal care will occur in person.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A course of study designed to acquaint students with common animal diseases of companion animals. Students will be introduced to body defense systems and how the body responds to disease. Each disease is presented according to the body system(s) affected and topics covered include clinical signs, diagnostic laboratory work-up, treatment options, and client information. This course focuses on diseases of dogs and cats but will include some discussion of diseases in rabbits, rodents, ferrets, birds and reptiles. Necropsy demonstrations may be provided as visual aids to the textbook study.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts in the care of the colony animals. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 123 Large Animal Disease: Pathology

  • Units:3
  • Hours:54 hours LEC
  • Prerequisite:VT 113 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information. If the course is offered online, all colony animal care will occur in person.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is designed to acquaint students with various diseases and conditions affecting large animal species including cattle, horses, sheep, goats and pigs. An overview of health and disease including the relationships between the disease agent, host and environment will be discussed. Students will learn about proper animal husbandry and management of large animal facilities including disease prevention strategies. Herd health concepts will be a focus of this course. Public health issues including emerging diseases, foreign animal diseases, zoonotic diseases and food safety will be discussed.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 126 Dentistry for the Veterinary Technician

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 110 and 113 with grades of "C" or better
  • Corequisite:VT 120; VT 120 (May have been taken previously)
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305, BIOL 400, and BIOL 440 with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course will prepare the student for all aspects of veterinary dental care in dogs and cats appropriate to the veterinary technician. It will include instruction in oral examination, periodontal disease, dental radiology, dental scaling and polishing, and extractions techniques. Laboratories will include using live animals and equipment for student learning and demonstration of hands-on skills. Students will perform dental radiography and prophylaxis on anesthetized animals under the direct supervision of licensed program faculty and staff.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts in the care of the colony animals. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 130 Advanced Veterinary Technology

  • Units:4
  • Hours:54 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 120 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course includes instruction in advanced veterinary technology concepts including abnormal hematology, erythropoiesis, bone marrow analysis, coagulation testing, clinical chemistry and serology, emergency/critical care, toxicology and nutrition. Emergency topics will include triage, cardiopulmonary arrest, ECG, shock, IV fluids and transfusion medicine, neonatal care, wound management, bandaging, splinting and casting techniques. Laboratory activities will allow students to develop skills such as fluid therapy and blood transfusion, cardiopulmonary resuscitation on dogs and cats, blood and urine collection techniques, performing ophthalmic tests and skin scraping, orogastric intubation, medication administration, and therapeutic grooming techniques.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.


VT 131 Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 120 and 122 with grades of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is designed to meet the needs of the veterinary technician who will be working for veterinarians in private practice, animal research laboratories, and/or private and state industrial or educational institutions. The course covers radiology safety procedures, laws, and regulations. Students learn how to use radiographic equipment to produce diagnostic radiographs. The course includes positioning techniques for various animal species as well as radiograph developing techniques and basic x-ray theory. Alternate imaging modalities, including diagnostic ultrasound, are introduced and their use in veterinary medicine is described. A local field trip to a facility that offers the opportunity to perform large animal radiographic techniques may be required. Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 134 Large Animal Nursing

  • Units:1.5
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 113 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

A course in restraint, behavior, anesthesia and nursing care of domestic large animal species. Species covered will include horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and swine. Students will learn and have hands-on practice in basic restraint, physical examination, oral and injectable medication administration, and blood and urine collection techniques. In this course students will receive instruction through in-person lectures and/or online modules and discussions followed by hands-on practice and skills demonstrations at off-campus facilities. Students will also receive instruction in the use of restraint equipment and techniques for obstetrical examination and dystocia, administration of and complications associated with large animal anesthesia, tail and leg wrapping, intravenous catheterization, and common husbandry practices including disbudding, tail docking, and castration.

Laboratories will provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with horses, cattle, small ruminants and swine.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.
Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 152 Introduction to Laboratory Animals and Caged Birds

  • Units:2
  • Hours:27 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 100 and 111 with grades of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. To be considered for admission, a student must have a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed CHEM 400 or CHEM 305 and BIOL 400, and BIOL 440, with grades of "C" or better. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course expands upon introductory concepts pertaining to birds and laboratory animals that students learned in previous veterinary technology courses. Laws and regulations governing the use of animals in research will be discussed. Course topics also include handling, medical procedures, anesthesia, and euthanasia in laboratory animals and caged birds. Students will gain knowledge and handling skills that can help them prepare for American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) certification.

Laboratories will provide opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience with rats, mice, hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, companion birds and reptiles. A field trip to a research facility may be required.

Students will also be required to spend a minimum of 6 hours per week during assigned shifts to care for the colony animals on campus. Shifts are scheduled outside of regular class time. Animal care shifts may be scheduled on weekends and holidays as well as semester breaks.

Enrollment in this course is limited to students admitted to the Veterinary Technology program via the pre-enrollment process. See the course catalog or a counselor for more information.

VT 295 Independent Studies in Veterinary Technology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

An independent studies project involves an individual student or small group of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses. See the current catalog section of "Special Studies" for full details of Independent Studies.

VT 298 Work Experience in Veterinary Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:VT 111 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can enroll or participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s worksite. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals in the field of Veterinary Technology and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. High School students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses.
  • General Education:Local GE L7B (effective Summer 2026)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment in their major field of study or advancement within their career. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in associate degree level or certificate occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce; completion of required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. Appropriate level learning objectives are established by the student and the employer. During the semester, the student is required to participate in a weekly orientation and complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings. This course may be taken up to four times when new or expanded learning objectives are introduced. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

VT 299 Experimental Offering in Veterinary Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog