Degree in Veterinary Technology
Degree & Certificate Programs
Program Details
The Veterinary Technology Program at Massasoit Community College is a 2-year comprehensive program leading to an associate degree in applied science. The program aims to prepare students to excel in a career as a veterinary technician in a variety of animal healthcare fields by instilling comprehensive knowledge, technical, and critical thinking skills. It also prepares students to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE). The VTNE is a computer-based exam required for veterinary technician credentialing in most states and provinces.
Graduates earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree.
Program Outcomes
Upon completion of the Veterinary Technology Program at Massasoit Community College, students will be knowledgeable in:
- Anatomy and physiology of various animal species
- Veterinary medical terminology
- Proper animal handling and restraint
- Husbandry of various animal species
- Patient assessment
- Sample collection and analysis
- Diagnostic testing and equipment
- Administration of medications via several routes
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
- Emergency protocols
- Basic nursing and critical care skills
- Dental prophylaxis
- Anesthesia administration and maintenance
- Pain assessment and management
- Knowledge of drugs and medical calculations
- Use of monitoring equipment
- Surgical preparation, assistance, and nursing care
- Knowledge of surgical equipment and supplies
- Knowledge of disease processes
- Preventative care
- Nursing care
- Knowledge of veterinary parasites and microbes
- Diagnostic imaging, equipment use, and safety measures
- Laboratory animal procedures
- Avian, exotic, and small mammal procedures
- Written, oral, and electronic communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Client service
- Teamwork
- Routine office procedures
- Animal health care law and ethics
- Achieve a passing score on the Veterinary Technician National Exam
Academic Map
Degree in Veterinary Technology
A minimum of 23 classes and 69 credits is required. At least 18 credits of your program must be taken at Massasoit. Note: Each course completed and passed can only fulfill one program requirement. The same course cannot be used to satisfy multiple program requirements. Students must receive a C or higher in all courses in this program. Students receiving a grade below a C in any of the program courses will not be allowed to continue in the program.
Semester 1
3 Credits in VTSC 101
Introduction to Veterinary Technology
4 Credits in BIOL 170
Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology I
4 Credits in VTSC 232
Veterinary Microbiology
3 Credits in VTSC 233
Veterinary Parasitology
3 Credits in ENGL 101
English Composition I
3 Credits in Math elective - College Algebra or higher
Semester 2
4 Credits in VTSC 211
Veterinary Clinical Methods I
3 Credits in VTSC 226
Veterinary Pharmacology
3 Credits in VTSC 224
Veterinary Imaging
4 Credits in BIOL 171
Vertebrate Anatomy and Physiology II
3 Credits in ENGL 102
English Composition II
Semester 3
4 Credits in VTSC 212
Veterinary Clinical Methods II
3 Credits in VTSC 235
Large Animal Medicine and Management
4 Credits in VTSC 236
Laboratory Animals and Exotics
4 Credits in VTSC 240
Veterinary Anesthesia and Surgery
Semester 4
2 Credits in VTSC 201
Veterinary Management
2 Credits in VTSC 221
Veterinary Internship I
2 Credits in VTSC 222
Veterinary Internship II
3 Credits in VTSC 238
Veterinary Pathology
3 Credits in PSYC 101
General Psychology
This academic map is a suggested semester-by-semester guide to keep you on a clear path to program completion. Please note that some classes are offered only in certain semesters, have prerequisites, or minimum passing grades. Winter and/or Summer Session classes may be available for some classes. Your academic advisor will provide you with clear direction needed to stay on course and discuss scheduling options with you. Taking courses not reflected on this map may result in courses not counting toward the completion of your requirements.
Advisory Committee
This committee is comprised of veterinary professionals, educators, and industry partners who work collaboratively to ensure the program remains aligned with current standards of veterinary care, credentialing requirements, and the evolving needs of animal health services. By offering expert input on curriculum development, clinical training, and workforce trends, the committee plays a vital role in preparing students to become skilled, compassionate, and credentialed veterinary technicians. Together, we are committed to advancing veterinary education and supporting the well-being of animals and the communities we serve.
- Roda Motta, MSc, BSEd, AS, CVT
Chair, Advisory Committee
Director, Veterinary Technology Program
Massasoit Community College - Paul Chamberlain, Jr., CVT, LAT
Lab Animal and Exotics Adjunct Faculty
Massasoit Community College
Manager of Technical Services
Mispro
- Patrick Welch DVM, MBA, DACVO
Chief Knowledge Officer
Ethos Veterinary Health - William Snell, DVM, DACVS-SA, ACVS Fellow (Surgical Oncology)
Medical Director, VCA - Colleen Gallagher, CVT
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University student
Veterinary Technology program graduate
Class of 2023 - Peg Wheeler, MS, LVT, VTES, FVTE, CVBP
Career Coach
Student Recruitment Liaison
Rarebreed Veterinary Partners - Amanda Cloutier, BsVT, CVT
Tufts Vet ER Services - Jen-Chi Yao, CVT
MSPCA Angell, Neurology - Bridget Hatch, CVT, LVT
Contura Vet - Serena Forte
Massasoit Vet Tech Student