Veterinary Technology & Assistant Program FAQs

Admission requirements can vary, but students should have a high school diploma or equivalent and a strong interest in working with animals.

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At MetroVet Academy, our admissions process is designed to ensure you’re prepared for success in a hands-on learning environment. For full details, visit our admissions page or contact our team directly.

MetroVet Academy offers career-focused training designed to prepare students for employment in the veterinary field. The Veterinary Technology program can be completed in 18 months, while the Veterinary Assistant program is designed to be completed in under a year.

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Both programs emphasize efficient, hands-on training to help students build the practical skills and experience employers expect while preparing for a rewarding career in veterinary medicine.

This is one of the most common questions—and an important one.

Veterinary Assistants:

• No degree required

• Not licensed

• Perform supportive, hands-on tasks

• Focus on patient care, cleaning, prep, and assisting staff

Veterinary Technicians:

• Must complete a 2-year accredited degree

• Must pass the VTNE and obtain licensure

• Can perform advanced clinical tasks under supervision

Veterinary assistants play a critical role in supporting the veterinary team, while technicians have expanded medical responsibilities. Both are essential to animal care.

The requirements are different for Veterinary Assistants and Veterinary Technicians.

Veterinary Assistants are not required to be licensed in the United States. Completing a formal training program can help students develop the knowledge and hands-on skills employers look for when hiring veterinary assistants.

Veterinary Technicians follow a different credentialing pathway. MetroVet Academy’s 18-month Veterinary Technology program prepares students to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), an important step toward becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). Graduates must meet applicable Ohio requirements for registration and credentialing.

Yes. Both MetroVet Academy programs are designed to prepare students for careers in the veterinary field, but they lead to different career paths.

The Veterinary Assistant program prepares students for entry-level veterinary assistant positions. Veterinary assistants are not required to be licensed in the United States, although completing a structured training program can help demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers.

The Veterinary Technology program provides more advanced training and is designed to prepare students to pursue a career as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). The program can be completed in 18 months and prepares students to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE), which is an important step toward RVT credentialing in Ohio. Graduates must meet applicable state requirements to become registered.

Yes. While employment cannot be guaranteed, MetroVet Academy supports students in their job search through:

• Job placement resources

• Industry connections

• Guidance on resumes and interviewing

We maintain relationships with veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and related employers to help connect graduates with opportunities.

MetroVet Academy focuses on hands-on, career-ready training designed to prepare students for real-world veterinary environments. As a NAVTA-approved program, it aligns with industry standards and emphasizes practical skills, employer expectations, and job readiness.

Students in MetroVet Academy’s programs develop practical, career-focused skills through hands-on training. The skills you learn will vary depending on the program you choose.

Veterinary Assistant students learn skills such as:

• Animal handling and restraint

• Clinic sanitation and preparation

• Assisting with veterinary exams and procedures

• Basic laboratory preparation

• Client communication and support

Veterinary Technology students receive more advanced training in areas such as:

• Animal care and handling

• Veterinary clinical procedures

• Diagnostic and laboratory procedures

• Patient monitoring and nursing care

• Surgical preparation and assistance

• Anesthesia and pain management

• Veterinary pharmacology

• Radiology and diagnostic imaging

MetroVet Academy’s hands-on approach helps students build the practical skills and confidence needed to work in a professional veterinary environment.

Veterinary assistants and veterinary technicians can work in a variety of animal care settings, including:

• Veterinary clinics and animal hospitals

• Specialty and emergency veterinary centers

• Animal shelters and rescue organizations

• Boarding and grooming facilities

• Research and laboratory facilities

• Zoos, wildlife facilities, and other animal care organizations

The specific career opportunities available can vary based on education, experience, and credentials. Veterinary Technology graduates may pursue more advanced clinical roles, while Veterinary Assistant graduates are prepared for entry-level support roles in veterinary settings.

For individuals who enjoy working with animals and want a rewarding career in veterinary medicine, both Veterinary Assistant and Veterinary Technology can offer opportunities to make a difference in the lives of animals and their owners.

MetroVet Academy offers two career-focused pathways:

• Veterinary Assistant: A shorter pathway designed to prepare students for entry-level roles and a quick transition into the veterinary field.

• Veterinary Technology: An 18-month program that provides more advanced clinical training and prepares students to pursue a career as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT).

Both pathways provide hands-on experience and opportunities to build skills that can support long-term growth in the veterinary field.

Salaries in the veterinary field can vary based on job title, experience, location, credentials, and employer.

Veterinary assistants completing MetroVet Academy’s program can typically expect starting wages around $16–$20 per hour, with some experienced veterinary assistants earning up to $22 per hour.

Veterinary technicians may have higher earning potential due to their advanced education, clinical responsibilities, and professional credentials. Actual wages will vary based on experience, location, and employer.