VETERINARY SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY / A.A.S. DEGREE

Veterinary Science Technology is a growing field that offers a variety of careers to individuals interested in working with animals either as technicians or as members of a scientific community. For many people, the study of veterinary technology serves as a starting point for entry into various animal and health-related careers.

A veterinary technician is described by the American Veterinary Medical Association as "a person knowledgeable in the care and handling of animals, in the basic principles of normal and abnormal life processes, and in routine laboratory and clinical procedures. He or she is primarily an assistant to veterinarians, biological research workers and other scientists."

The demand for personnel trained in the area of animal care and management is strong. The large pet animal population requires technical support personnel to assist veterinarians in the clinical practices. The growth of biomedical research and the concern for the humane care of animals used in research require qualified assistants. The anticipated expansion of the biotechnology industry is expected to further increase the need for qualified technical support.

The Veterinary Science Technology program has been designed to graduate well-trained and competent technicians for the veterinary and biomedical research fields. Practical experience with live animals and field experience under typical working conditions form an integral part of the program. The practical experience is achieved by internships with affiliated veterinary animal clinics, biomedical research centers and the college’s animal facilities.

The Veterinary Science Technology program is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to take the New York State Education Department licensure examination for certification as a veterinary technician.

An articulation agreement exists between Suffolk County Community College and Cornell University. Students have the opprotunity to be accepted into the Collge of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University after completing their A.A.S. degree at Suffolk County Community College.

      Small animal hospitals and clinics

      City, state and federal  government agencies

      Research laboratories

      Universities

      Pharmaceutical companies

      Medical and dental schools

      Animal Industry / Sales

      Zoological gardens

      Public health agencies

      Laboratory animal products / sales