VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM

Transcription

1 VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM For general program information call or School of Applied Science, Engineering, and Technology Madison Area Technical College 1701 Wright Street Madison, WI (800) ext 6800 or (608) Student Development Center Academic Advisors Room 159AA (608) For more specific information about program content, course content, or customized training programs call or Dr. CC Sheldon, Program Director (608) NOTE: The contents of this booklet are provided solely for informational purposes and were accurate at the time of printing. Terms, conditions of service, course location and duration, and eligibility criteria, however, may be altered from time to time. Madison Area Technical College reserves the right to make changes in curricula, rules, and fees whenever such changes are deemed necessary. Nothing written or implied in this brochure is to be considered binding. Last Updated January

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3 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1) Introduction...5 2) Overview What is a Veterinary Technician? a. What is Veterinary Technician training?...6 b. What are the objectives of this training?...7 c. What are the duties of a Veterinary Technician?....7 d. Is the Veterinary Technician career field for both men and women?...8 3) Qualifications for the Program. Are you ready? a. What High School courses are required?...9 b. Is animal experience necessary?...9 c. Can I take Veterinary Technician training online or on a part-time basis? ) Finances.What are the Costs? a. What is the tuition? b. Is Financial Aid available? c. Can I hold a part-time job while attending Madison College? d. Can I live at home and/or commute to school? e. What about housing? ) Applying to the Program.How and When? a. How do I apply for the Veterinary Technician program? b. Can I start the Program in spring or fall? c. Can I be accepted for the Program if I don t live in Wisconsin? d. Are there any articulation agreements with 4-year colleges? e. How soon will I know if I have been accepted into the program? f. What are the admission guidelines for the Veterinary Technician program? g. Checklist for Veterinary Technician program application ) College credits How do they transfer? a. Can I transfer credits from other institutions of higher learning?...20 b. What other training or experience can receive credit? c. Can I transfer credits from the Veterinary Technician program towards a degree as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine?

4 7) Acceptance to the Program..What s next? a. What is the Veterinary Technician Curriculum? b. What are the courses about? c. Can I take college transfer courses instead? d, Are there related courses that can be taken? e. Who teaches the Veterinary Technician classes? f. When do the classes meet? g. Are uniforms required? ) Internship.What is it? a. What about summer internship - Do I get paid? b. What are the requirements for the Veterinary Technician Internship? ) Completing the Program.What s in the future? a. Are Veterinary Technicians licensed? b. Will MATC assist me in locating a position as a Certified Veterinary Technician when I graduate? ). Miscellaneous a. Is the Veterinary Technician program at Madison College accredited?. 31 b. What other agricultural programs are offered by Madison College? ) Where can I get more information? ) Appendix A: Certification for Veterinary Technicians

5 Introduction THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM As you plan to start your college life, you are naturally concerned with what the future may hold for you. You, your parents, counselors, and others have probably spent some time discussing the costs involved in pursuing a college education, the program of study you might take and, most importantly, your hopes and plans after you receive your training. Making plans and decisions along these lines should include a consideration of all factors. This booklet has been designed to help provide information to you about the Veterinary Technician program at Madison Area Technical College. Please let us know if there is any other information we can provide. We urge you to read this booklet completely before you apply for the Veterinary Technician program. This will be helpful to you after you are accepted as a student. It is also suggested that, if possible, you visit with a veterinary technician in your home area. *The names Madison College (MC) and MATC are abbreviations for Madison Area Technical College throughout this booklet. 5

6 Overview What is a Veterinary Technician? A. WHAT IS VETERINARY TECHNICIAN TRAINING? The Veterinary Technician Program at Madison College is a two-year associate degree program in applied science conducted under the direction of licensed veterinarians and certified veterinary technicians as well as instructors in the General Studies areas. It emphasizes hands-on animal skills and the technical information necessary to perform certain duties under the supervision of a veterinarian. The courses were developed to follow the guidelines of the American and Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Associations. This program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). At the end of two semesters of training, students are required to spend the summer interning under the supervision of a Wisconsin licensed veterinarian for 288 or more hours in a period of eight or more weeks. This program was developed and is advised in cooperation with a committee of the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association. The Board of the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) has approved it as an associate degree program. Veterinary medicine needs well-trained personnel who are as capable as nurses, surgery and laboratory technicians as well as dental hygienists in human medicine. Well-trained veterinary technicians can function in a great number of areas in today's active veterinary practices including the laboratory, anesthetic monitoring, patient restraint, and intensive care. Responsibilities include administration and maintenance of anesthesia, use of monitoring equipment (ECG, pulse oximetry, blood pressure, etc.), administration of fluids, surgical assistance, post-operative observation, post-operative splints and bandages, radiology, performing laboratory test procedures and in-hospital treatment. Technicians also function in the reception and examination rooms taking histories, filling out records, explaining medication usage and instructing the owner about follow-up examinations and treatment. The list of duties could go on and will grow longer as the technician becomes more experienced. 6

7 B. WHAT ARE THE OBJECTIVES OF THIS TRAINING? 1. Participate in facility management utilizing traditional and electronic media and appropriate Veterinary Medical Terminology and abbreviations. 2. Communicate in a professional manner in all formats, written, oral, nonverbal and electronic. 3. Read and follow protocols and procedures accurately and within time constraints. 4. Work as a team member demonstrating initiative, and applying time and stress management techniques. 5. Identify and manage stressful and emotional work situations. 6. Follow and uphold applicable laws and the veterinary technician s ethical code to provide high quality care to patients. 7. Safely and effectively administer prescribed drugs to patients, and accurately dispense and explain drugs to clients. 8. Demonstrate and perform patient assessment techniques, husbandry, nutrition, therapeutic and dentistry techniques in a variety of animal species (including laboratory animal species, companion animals, and food animals). 9. Safely and effectively manage patients in all phases of anesthetic procedures, as well as safely and effectively select, utilize and maintain anesthetic delivery and monitoring instruments and equipment. 10. Demonstrate and integrate all aspects of patient management for common surgical procedures in a variety of animal species. 11. Properly package, handle and store specimens for laboratory analysis, properly carry out analysis of laboratory specimens. (Blood, urine, feces, tissues, skin scrapes, discharge, body fluids). 12. Safely and effectively produce diagnostic images. The purpose of this training is not to prepare individuals as veterinarians or to train them to service their own animals. If an individual aspires to be a "Certified Veterinary Technician" instead of someone who may work with animals without specific skills, it is absolutely necessary that he/she develop certain traits and abilities to make it so. These goals are the primary objectives of this program. C. WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A VETERINARY TECHNICIAN? Individuals with this type of specialized training assist veterinarians to prepare animals for diagnosis and care for those under treatment for disease or injury. Preventive medicine, precise laboratory tests used in diagnosis and proper care of animals are routine tasks. Typical duties include animal restraint, sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment using germicides and an autoclave, administering anesthetics, giving medications and performing prescribed nursing care under the 7

8 direction of a veterinarian, assisting with radiology, grooming, preparing animals for and assisting in surgery, performing dental prophylaxis, and assisting in the office receiving clients, answering the telephone, making appointments, keeping inventories, and accepting payment on client accounts. D. IS THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN CAREER FIELD FOR BOTH MEN AND WOMEN? Both men and women with specialized training are in demand for the rapidly growing veterinary technician career field. In the beginning, most students in this program were women. However, more and more men are now enrolling. Veterinarians, producers of laboratory animals, research institutions, medical centers, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and others need specially trained people to care for animals and to perform laboratory and clerical tasks. Students graduating in this curriculum can generally expect rapid advancement. Jobs are found in large animal, small animal, or mixed animal practices, research facilities, animal shelters and zoos. This new branch of animal science can provide you with an interesting, rewarding, and challenging career. 8

9 Qualifications for the Program Are you ready? A. WHAT HIGH SCHOOL COURSES ARE REQUIRED? Average or better grades in high school algebra, biology and chemistry (two semesters or 1 year of each) are very important and are REQUIRED. Applicants without algebra, biology or chemistry must take these courses prior to being accepted into the program. These required courses must be passed with a grade of C or better in each semester. Biology and chemistry must include a laboratory and be for students going into a science field. Other desirable courses include speech, bookkeeping, physics, office practices, computer keyboarding, Microsoft office software, animal science, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology and agriculture. No one would be expected to have all of these. Students are considered for the Veterinary Technician program on the merits of their total high school and/or college transcripts and ACT, COMPASS, or other comparable test scores. See Admission Guidelines for the Veterinary Technician Program for more information. B. IS ANIMAL EXPERIENCE NECESSARY? Previous work experience with animals can be very beneficial. Experience on a farm, working with a veterinarian, or other animal jobs will be helpful in attaining the skills and knowledge necessary for this career, but even more important is the science and mathematical ability to do laboratory work, radiology and other such tasks. We like to see a student have some hands-on animal experience and background so he/she is sure of mastering the working conditions of this career. It takes more than a "lover of animals" to be a good veterinary technician. Experience with, interest in, and capacity for working with the type of small and large animals serviced by a veterinarian are very important. Good physical and emotional health is necessary. Physically you should be able to lift at least fifty pounds. Certain allergies, poor vision or hearing that isn't corrected, or being color blind could hamper a student in this career. Desirable personal traits to work with the public in periods of stress and emergencies as well as in general clinic relationships are also desired. 9

10 C. CAN I TAKE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN TRAINING ONLINE OR ON A PART-TIME BASIS? Veterinary Technician core classes requiring hands-on technical skills are only offered on-site at this time. Some lecture only based courses are offered online as well as on-site. General Education courses may be taken on-site, over instructional television, or online. Students must enroll as a full-time student during their first semester in the program. Students may complete the program on a part-time basis after they have completed the first semester. Because of the limited number of spots available for the first semester of the program, students must be concurrently enrolled in all of the following: Occupational Prep, Laboratory Animal Science 1, Veterinary Medical Terminology, Animal Care & Management 1, and Animal Biology (unless these classes are completed elsewhere prior to the student s first semester in the program). 10

11 Finances What are the Costs? A. WHAT IS THE TUITION? These rates vary from year to year as they are based on current instructional costs. These fees are set by the legislature and change yearly. Student activities and parking fees are also charged. A higher semester credit fee is charged for college transfer general education courses a student may choose to take. For information regarding tuition and fees, go to the Madison College websites: Advance Reservation Fee... An advance reservation fee of $50.00 is due within thirty (30) days after notification of acceptance onto a waiting list. The receipt of this fee is the student's assurance of a place on the Veterinary Technician waiting list for future admittance either that semester or the following fall semester. This fee will apply towards the regular fees at the time of registration. It is important to pay this fee promptly within the thirty (30) days as requested. Non-payment will cause the person's application to be cancelled. Room and Board... Expenses for room and board, of course, vary according to each individual. Madison College does not provide housing facilities. Most students locate their housing at the time of registration in summer. A college cafeteria offers well-balanced and complete meals to students. City bus service is available to the school. Books, school supplies, and fees... Students that are now enrolled find that books, personal school supplies, and fees are necessary. It is recommended to budget approximately $700 per semester for these additional costs. Of these items, books are generally the most expensive item. Our college bookstore sells the necessary textbooks and school supplies to students. Most textbooks can be ordered online and either delivered to your home or reserved and picked-up at Truax near the beginning of the semester. B. IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE? As in the University of Wisconsin system and at other Wisconsin Technical College System districts, financial aid is available for those who need it. Financial aid is designed to supplement the resources of the student and family. The family is 11

12 expected to pay as much as it can realistically handle; financial aid--grants, loans, work study--then make up the balance. Simply stated, a grant is financial aid that is not repaid by the student. A loan is temporary assistance (up to ten years) that must be repaid. Work-study funds are earned through jobs which most often tie in with the student's classroom study. To be considered for financial assistance, a student must apply. MATC students may begin the Financial Aid process online at as soon as their current tax returns are complete. The Financial Aid Office offers federal and state grants, employment opportunities, scholarships and loan programs to assist students who would otherwise be unable to afford an education. For help with filling out the FAFSA, call (608) to register for a FAFSA Workshop (Wednesday afternoons / Friday mornings). Visit our MATC Website at go to the homepage, then to the A-Z index, to F, search for Financial Aid and you will find other valuable financial aid information. Before you will be sent a financial aid award announcement, you must have been accepted for enrollment in an approved post-secondary program. To determine the extent of a student's financial need, the financial aid officer takes into account the financial support which may be expected from the income, assets, and other resources of the student, the student's parents and, if applicable, the student's spouse. The amount of need is determined by subtracting the contributions available from the student's total cost of attending school. The difference between these resources and the school costs, which are based upon average student costs, constitutes the student's financial need. It is the philosophy of Madison College that deserving students should not be denied the opportunity to attend our college because of financial need as long as funds are available to help them. C. CAN I HOLD A PART-TIME JOB WHILE ATTENDING MADISON COLLEGE? Most students hold part-time employment while attending school. A student may obtain help finding employment by contacting Madison College s Career and Employment Services. Information can be found online at Whether or not you hold a part-time job should at least be partially dependent on your scholastic ability and how well you do in your college courses. About 90 percent of Madison College students have some part-time employment while attending school. However, working too many hours at outside employment has been demonstrated to seriously impair student success in the Veterinary Technician Program. 12

13 D. CAN I LIVE AT HOME AND/OR COMMUTE TO SCHOOL? Many students enrolled in the post-secondary curriculum at Madison College are residents of the Madison area and live at home. Others look to the private sector for housing in the Madison area or commute daily from homes outside the Dane County area. E. WHAT ABOUT HOUSING? A good supply of housing is available in Madison. Nevertheless, students are advised to make housing arrangements in early summer after they are accepted (late June to mid-july is a good time). Madison College does not provide housing for students, however, the Student Life Office has a brochure to use as a guide to assist in finding housing called A Guide to Finding Housing in Madison. 13

14 Applying to the Program.How and When? A. HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM? You are required to fill out a Madison College application online. Applications can be found at our website: At the time of submission of your on-line application you will be charged a $5.00 access fee plus the $30.00 application fee. In addition, you are required to submit by postal mail: 1) Official high school transcripts and/or GED/HSED transcripts; 2) Official post-secondary (college) transcripts, if applicable. 3) ACT or COMPASS assessment current within the last 2 years. The COMPASS assessment is free and can be taken at Madison College or a technical college near you. Completed applications will be considered for processing as of the third Monday in October for the following fall semester. All of the above items need to be received by the third Monday in October to be considered a complete 1 st Day Applicant. The Veterinary Technician Program has historically filled with 1 st day applicants. The earliest date applications may be submitted online is September 1st. If an application is received prior to September 1st, the application and credentials may be returned to you. Your application will not be considered complete and ready for review until all the documents are received by the Enrollment Center. For the best consideration, we highly recommend that you submit your application online AND we receive all your accompanying documentation on or before the third Monday in October. Important: If you applied to Madison College previously, your transcripts may be on file. However, if your previous application was submitted while you were a high school senior, you must send a complete four-year high school transcript once you graduate. If you applied previously and were in the process of taking college courses, you are now required to submit up-to-date transcripts from that college. Your application will not be considered complete without the up-to-date transcripts. Board policy mandates that qualified applicants are accepted on a first-come, first- 14

15 served basis. However, if the number of qualified applicants (who have applications on file on the first day of consideration) exceeds the number of spots available in the program, students will be randomly selected by computer. Students not selected will be put on a waiting list, and will be notified when space becomes available in the program. If the waiting list is full, then the program is closed. Reservation Fee: For high-demand programs, a $50 reservation fee is due within 30 days of being notified of waiting list status. Payment of this fee keeps a student on the waiting list until such a time there is a place in the program, either for the current fall semester or the following fall semester. This fee will apply toward tuition at the time of enrollment. Cancellation of Acceptance/Application: To cancel your acceptance into a program, please send written notification (notice is found on the Madison College website: to the Enrollment Center. If cancellation is received by July 1 for the fall semester (or December 5th for the spring semester), fees will be refunded. Additionally, if the applicant cancels their wait list status, the full $50 is refunded upon written request (if the fee has not been applied to previous tuition). B. CAN I START THE PROGRAM IN SPRING OR FALL? We do not admit students to start in the spring semester unless they are part of our UW-River Falls articulation agreement or transfer in from another accredited veterinary technician program. C. CAN I BE ACCEPTED FOR THE PROGRAM IF I DON T LIVE IN WISCONSIN? Although the program has been designed with Wisconsin residents in mind, out-of-state persons may be admitted if space permits. Out-of-state applications are not reviewed until a certain amount of time has elapsed for acceptance of in-state applicants. D. ARE THERE ANY ARTICULATION AGREEMENTS WITH 4-YR COLLEGES? Madison Area Technical College and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls signed 15

16 an articulation agreement in March 2007 between the Madison Area Technical College Veterinary Technician Associate Degree Program and the University of Wisconsin-River Falls Animal Science Veterinary Technician Emphasis Bachelor of Science Program. A summary of the agreement follows: 1. Students graduating from Madison College with a 2-year Veterinary Technician Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree are guaranteed admission to UW-River Falls to obtain the Animal Science Veterinary Technology emphasis Bachelor of Science degree (BS). a. BS can be finished in an additional 2 years with full credit load. b. Students will be eligible to sit for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam) upon graduation from Madison College. c. Majority of credits will transfer, including 100 level general education courses. 2. Students completing years (depending on credit load) at UW-River Falls in the Animal Science Veterinary Technology emphasis program are guaranteed admission to Madison College s Veterinary Technician program in the second semester. a. Veterinary Technician AAS degree completed in additional 1.5 years. b. Students will be eligible to sit for the VTNE (Veterinary Technician National Exam) upon graduation from Madison College. c. Advanced standing for most Madison College first semester courses and all general education courses. d. BS degree from UW-River Falls will be granted upon completion of Madison College Veterinary Technician AAS degree. e. Students will be required to attend an animal restraint mini-course prior to spring semester entry. *Note: This transfer agreement is only between the two degrees above and will not apply to other degrees at Madison College or UW-River Falls. E. HOW SOON WILL I KNOW IF I HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM? Official acceptance or denial notices are sent by the admissions counselor to program applicants as soon as they can be processed. This may require several months after all of your credentials have been received. Application processing is expedited by submitting all required application materials together. Generally, we attempt to send acceptance letters by the end of January. 16

17 F. WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION GUIDELINES FOR THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM? Assessment Needed: ACT OR COMPASS* assessment. Assessment scores must be within last two years. Desired ACT Standard Scores: English: 20, Math: 20, Social Science: 20, Natural Science: 20, Composite: 20 Desired COMPASS Assessment Test Scores: Reading: 85, Writing: 78, e-write: 6, Algebra: 40 *The COMPASS assessment will also be required in the review process for all incoming students if the ACT test has not been taken within the last two years. High School Courses Required: Grades of C or better are required for all courses (Note: Grades of C- and below are not acceptable.) Algebra - two semesters, each with a grade of C or better Biology - two semesters, each with a grade of C or better. Biology must be with a laboratory, designed for students who will go into a science field. Chemistry - two semesters, each with a grade of C or better. Chemistry must be math based, with a laboratory, designed for students who will go into a science field. We will not accept the following high school chemistry classes: Chem Com, Chemistry in the Community, or Conceptual Chemistry. If you have questions about your chemistry class, please call our Academic Advisor at (608) Reading ability - preferably at or near 12th grade level 2.0 cumulative GPA in high school studies Program Prerequisite Courses for students without high school required courses: The following college courses are required for persons who have not had high school algebra, chemistry, or biology and/or need more reading and/or writing skills, all with a grade of C or better.. An applicant does not have to take all of the following courses, only the ones they need to satisfy entrance requirements or to achieve qualifying assessment scores. 17

18 College Reading Strategies 3 credits Introduction to College Writing 3 credits Elementary Algebra with Applications 3 credits College Mathematics 3 credits General Chemistry 4 credits Prep for Basic Biology 2 credits Aptitude or Interest Desired: Students should have knowledge of, interest in, and capacity for working with animals as serviced by a veterinarian. Individuals should like animals, but that alone is not enough. Students must be willing to perform routine laboratory and diagnostic tests, office duties, assist with surgery, perform dental cleanings and cage cleaning as well as be interested in the many duties performed by a veterinarian. Prospective students should not be afraid of any kind of animal, large or small. Prospective students should not have been convicted of a felony involving controlled substance drugs, since handling drugs will be involved and it may prohibit licensure. Students must be willing to spend some weekends and extended day hours during the week upon demand. Must be able to spend the first summer after completion of all first year courses away from home for Internship, which is a required part of the curriculum. Desired Physical Characteristics: Have good physical and emotional health, free from allergies, be able to stand for long periods of time, be able to handle delicate instruments and equipment, have good vision and hearing, and be able to distinguish colors. Students should be able to lift at least 50 pounds unassisted. Reasonable accommodations/modifications will be made for persons with disabilities. Functional abilities required to perform the job of veterinary technician (and to complete our program) can be found online on the Veterinary Technician webpage. Personal Characteristics Desired: A good student in all classes, accuracy in work, attention to detail, and a studious, inquiring mind in mathematical, science, and animal subjects. Must be conscientious, reliable and dedicated and have the ability to work with the public calmly and efficiently during periods of stress, emotional anxiety, patient in emergencies and in general clinic relationships. Individual Most Likely to Succeed: An individual who shows maturity and has had experience in working with large animals (cattle, swine, sheep, horses, etc.) and small animals (dogs, cats, etc.) prior to enrolling. Individuals who show accuracy in their work, who have demonstrated academic success based upon grades and testing, and who have a pleasing appearance and personality, and who will be dedicated to a lifetime career are most likely to succeed in this profession. 18

19 G. CHECKLIST FOR VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM APPLICATION Please note: Only completed applications will be considered for admissions to the Veterinary Technician program. Keep this checklist to be sure your application is complete. ( ) Completed application online with the non-refundable application fee, ( ) Official copy of your high school transcript regardless of your present status, (grades 9-11 if a senior in high school, grades 9-12 if you are a graduate), ( ) List of senior subjects if you are a senior in high school, ( ) ACT or COMPASS* assessment, ( ) An official transcript of any post-secondary (college) education you have completed beyond high school if you are a high school graduate, ( ) A permanent home address and telephone number where you can be reached should be included on your application form. College or short-term addresses may not enable us to reach you if needed. Additional information is not required but may be added to your application as you see fit. Such materials may include letters of recommendation (especially from veterinarians), work experience records, explanations of any special situations, etc. Applicants with complete credentials listed above are considered on a first-come, first-serve basis starting with the first day of admissions (third Monday of October for the following fall term). If additional help or information is needed, please write the above address or telephone (608) *COMPASS assessment will also be required in the review process for all incoming students who have not taken the ACT test within the last two years. 19

20 COLLEGE CREDITS HOW DO THEY TRANSFER? A. CAN I TRANSFER CREDITS FROM OTHER INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING? Students transferring from other institutions of higher learning may have their records evaluated by the Program Director or Academic Advisor of the School of Agriscience and Technologies and may receive permission to waive certain requirements provided the courses being transferred are equivalent in material content, credit value, and science course laboratory hours. It is also necessary that you receive a grade of "C" or above in these courses to be transferred. Because of certain prerequisites in the Veterinary Technician program, this will generally not reduce the two years for the training but will lower your credit load while you are here. Courses taken at any accredited university that are transferable if taken within the past 5 years are: Animal Biology or Zoology and Chemistry (inorganic and organic components). Exceptions can be made for applicants who use animal biology, zoology or chemistry in their daily work (i.e. job). Courses transferable at any time, regardless of how long ago they were completed, include: English Composition 1 and 2, Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to Psychology, and Speech or the equivalent. B. WHAT OTHER TRAINING OR EXPERIENCE CAN RECEIVE CREDIT? In addition to transferring credits from other institutions of higher learning, a student may be granted other credit toward the Veterinary Technician Associate Degree by making application to the Academic Advisor. Such credit may be given for previous work experience, previous military education or experience, and advanced high school courses comparable in content and level (if an articulation agreement exists). At the discretion of the Academic Advisor, the evaluation of such credit shall be oral, written, performance testing, or by a combination of these. Acknowledging that learning may take place anywhere, MATC awards credit for experiential learning that contributes directly to an associate degree program. Experiential learning refers especially to learning that occurs outside the classroom, in work settings, communities, or self directed accomplishments. It emphasizes performance over concept. This type of learning might be applicable towards 20

21 Internship. C. CAN I TRANSFER CREDITS FROM THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM TOWARDS A DEGREE AS A DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE? This isn't the primary objective of veterinary technician training, but if you plan to continue your education beyond our two-year Veterinary Technician program, some of the credits could be transferable. It is recommended you take college transfer level general education courses (200 level - Science, English, Mathematics) instead of the associate degree (100 level) general education level courses the Veterinary Technician students take (which are not always transferable.) There is an additional cost to the student for each college transfer semester credit and, of course, acceptance of such credits is dependent upon the school to which you wish the credits transferred. Also, some four-year institutions accept some associate degree general education courses. Check with the school that you intend to enroll in to see which courses are transferable. If you plan to take college transferable credits in lieu of those required in the curriculum, steps to do this should be completed at or prior to the time you register after being accepted. 21

22 Acceptance to the Program.What s next? A. WHAT IS THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN CURRICULUM? Course No. Course Name Credits FIRST YEAR 1st Semester Occupational Preparation Laboratory Animal Science Veterinary Medical Terminology Animal Care & Management Written Communications Principles of Animal Biology nd Semester Animal Disease Pharmacology Veterinary Clinical Pathology Veterinary Office Procedures Animal Care & Management Life Science Chemistry 5 16 Summer Semester Internship (8 wks/288 hours) 4 SECOND YEAR 3rd Semester Animal Disease Veterinary Clinical Pathology Surgical Nursing Animal Nursing Veterinary Office Procedures Animal Anatomy and Physiology Technical Reporting th Semester Pharmacology Veterinary Clinical Pathology Advanced Topics in Clinical Pathology Surgical Nursing Diagnostic Imaging Contemporary American Society Psychology of Human Relations 3 17 Total Program Credits 70 22

23 B. WHAT ARE THE COURSES ABOUT? Course descriptions in the Veterinary Technician program: Occupational Preparation 1 credit This course is designed to acquaint new students with the general competencies necessary to be employed as veterinary and laboratory animal technicians. Addresses the student=s personal safety, health and stress management. Discusses memberships in professional organizations, certification, licensing and internship preparation. Briefly discusses animal loss and bereavement Animal Disease 1 2 credits Covers etiology, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, prevention and control of diseases that are transmissible from animals to humans as well as animals to animals. Reporting requirements and handling of diagnostic samples involving high-exposure diseases are also discussed. Prerequisite: Veterinary Medical Terminology Animal Disease 2 2 credits Covers etiology, symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, prevention and control of common diseases in a wide variety of animal species. Toxic plants and other substances, as well as reporting and monitoring of federally regulated diseases will also be discussed. Prerequisites: Animal Disease 1 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in Animal Care & Management 1 and Laboratory Animal Science Pharmacology 1 2 credits Introduction to drugs and other substances used in veterinary medicine. Emphasizes drug usage, client education, measurement, administration, and safe storage of antiparasitics, antiinflammatories, antibiotics and nervous system drugs. Prerequisites: Veterinary Medical Terminology and Animal Care and Management Pharmacology 2 2 credits Introduction to drugs and other substances used in veterinary medicine. Emphasizes drug usage, client education, measurement, administration, and safe storage of cardiac, respiratory, gastrointestinal, chemotherapy, ophthalmic and other drugs. Prerequisite: Pharmacology 1 and Internship Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1 3 credits First in sequence of three courses. Students are introduced to laboratory equipment, elementary laboratory procedures and the principles of microscopy, parasitology, urine analysis, hematology and bacteriology. Prerequisites: Veterinary Medical Terminology, and Animal Care and Management Veterinary Clinical Pathology 3 3 credits Third in sequence of three courses. Continues to expand upon the principles, procedures and skills learned in Veterinary Clinical Pathology 1 & 2, including hematology, parasitology, urine analysis, microbiology, cytology, mycology, cirology, serology, immunology and blood chemistries. Will continue to expand upon the use of automated 23

24 laboratory procedures for hematology and clinical chemistries. Prerequisite: Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2, Internship, and Life Science Chemistry Advanced Topics in Clinical Pathology 1 credit Current topics and advanced diagnostic procedures in clinical pathology. Prerequisites: Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory Animal Science 1 2 credits This course includes the history of laboratory animal technology and laboratory animal uses. It emphasizes the Animal Welfare Act and other regulations pertaining to the care of laboratory animals. It covers laboratory animal husbandry in depth as students provide care and treatment for a colony of laboratory animals. Prerequisites: Completion or concurrent enrollment in Occupational Preparation, Veterinary Medical Terminology and Animal Care and Management Veterinary Clinical Pathology 2 3 credits Second in sequence of three courses. Students utilize laboratory equipment, including the microscope and complete selected laboratory procedures, including parasitology, mycology, urine analysis, hematology, serology, bacteriology, cytology and blood chemistries. Prerequisite: Internship and Veterinary Clinical Pathology Surgical Nursing 1 3 credits This introductory course to surgical nursing covers surgical instruments, package prep, patient prep, anesthesia, monitoring and post-op care. Prerequisites: Internship and concurrent enrollment or completion of Animal Anatomy and Physiology Animal Nursing 1 2 credits Designed to build on nursing skills learned in Animal Care & Management 2 with emphasis on large animal anesthetic techniques, surgical preparation and monitoring. Prerequisites: Internship; Surgical Nursing 1 or concurrent enrollment Veterinary Office Procedures 1 1 credit Covers development of appropriate public, client and staff relations; telephone etiquette, making appointments, managing records, client services and education, and personal grooming and attire. Legal requirements for record keeping as well as an introduction to the rules and regulations governing the veterinary and laboratory animal technician will also be discussed. Prerequisites: Veterinary Medical Terminology and Occupational Preparation Veterinary Office Procedures 2 1 credit A computer based course covering office documents, patient records, billing, estimates, etc...using veterinary office software. Prerequisites: Veterinary Office Procedures 1 and completion of or concurrent enrollment in Animal Care and 24

25 Management Animal Anatomy and Physiology I 4 credits In this course, lectures will emphasize terminology, functions, location, identification and organization of anatomical structures that are parts of body systems. Students dissect and study cadavers and tissue specimens from common domestic species. Prerequisite: Animal Biology; completion of or concurrent enrollment in Animal Care and Management Surgical Nursing 2 2 credits Focuses on the continuation of basic surgical nursing and anesthesia skills. Also covers basic dental prohylaxis, dental radiography and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Prerequisite: Surgical Nursing Diagnostic Imaging 3 credits Covers radiology, electrocardiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, and other special imaging procedures and technologies. Prerequisites: Surgical Nursing 1 and Animal Anatomy and Physiology Internship 4 credits Internship (work experience) is a very important phase of practical training for students enrolled in the program. It generally follows the second semester of classwork in the college summer recess and is conducted during a period of eight weeks (or 288 hours). The student=s work is supervised by assigned instructors. Prerequisite: Completion of all first-year program courses except for Laboratory Animal Science Veterinary Medical Terminology 2 credits This course teaches acceptable veterinary medical terminology for common clinically recognizable diseases, operations, systems and procedures, as well as common medical signs, abbreviations and colloquial vocabulary Animal Care and Management 1 3 credits This course focuses on handling and husbandry of animals most commonly seen in veterinary medicine. Includes animal behavior, nutrition and healthcare. Prerequisites: Completion or concurrent enrollment in Animal Biology, Veterinary Medical Terminology, and Occupational Preparation Animal Care and Management 2 3 credits Focuses on handling, medical nursing and disease processes of animals most commonly seen in veterinary medicine. Prerequisites: Veterinary Medical Terminology, Animal Care and Management 1 and Occupational Preparation. 25

26 C. CAN I TAKE COLLEGE TRANSFER COURSES INSTEAD? Students may wish to take the general education (200 numbered) courses at the 4-year college transfer level in place of the AAS degree general education (100 numbered) courses. This is recommended for students without bachelor degrees who may want to pursue a 4-year degree in the future. MATC AAS MATC Courses taken in lieu of AAS Degree Courses Courses for possible Transfer Written Communications English Technical Reporting Technical Communications OR English Principles of Animal Biology Introduction to Zoology Cont. American Society Introduction to Sociology Psych. Of Human Relations Introduction to Psychology Life Science Chemistry General Organic & Biological Chemistry College Chemistry 1 D. ARE THERE RELATED COURSES THAT CAN BE TAKEN? The following courses are available to enhance Bachelor of Science degree opportunities but are not part of the veterinary technician degree curriculum: Intermediate Algebra 3 credits College Chemistry II 5 credits Microbiology 4 credits E. WHO TEACHES THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN COURSES? All courses that are directly related to the Veterinary Technician program are taught by licensed veterinarians and by certified veterinary technicians who have worked in veterinary practices with both large and small animals. Other courses in science, mathematics, communication, etc., are taught by the general education and business faculty. Outside of the college, internships provide additional clinical experience and are supervised by either a Wisconsin licensed veterinarian or a Wisconsin certified veterinary technician. F. WHEN DO THE CLASSES MEET? The Madison College day class schedule is conducted from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. However, classes for this program have been grouped as 26

27 much as possible to generally meet from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Several "free periods" follow classes in this schedule within a given week allowing students time for lunch, studying, and free time. G. ARE UNIFORMS REQUIRED? The type of jacket smock garments worn by veterinary technicians in veterinary clinics is required in laboratory classes starting with the first semester in the first year of training. Students' dress and appearance at all times will be expected to be as when they become employed as veterinary technicians. Smocks are purchased by the students early in the first semester and are of a style and type prescribed by the college. These will be ordered at New Student Orientation. Students are also required to wear coveralls and boots first semester, and surgical scrubs and safety glasses in later courses. 27

28 Internship.. What is it? A. WHAT ABOUT SUMMER INTERNSHIP DO I GET PAID? Summer internship work experience is a required four-credit course. It is considered to be an essential phase of the two-year Veterinary Technician associate degree program. It follows the completion of all first year coursework and is conducted during a period of eight or more weeks (or 288 hours), in the summer between the first and second years (and for some, during the academic year). This will allow you approximately three to four weeks of vacation time during the summer in addition to your internship. Placement for this training will be with a cooperating veterinarian who is licensed to practice in Wisconsin and your work will be supervised by the Madison College instructors who teach the Veterinary Technician classes. Placement for internship is the responsibility of the student during his/her first two semesters of training and he/she should be aware that not all such positions can be found in his/her home area or in the Madison area. Students are given instruction concerning applying for Internship in an Occupational Preparation course and then are given an independent role in their own placement. It is recommended that you be paid for Internship, but it isn't required. Most veterinary hospital/clinic internships are unpaid. Some employers opt to donate money towards an intern s tuition in lieu of wages and this has become more common in recent years. B. WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE VETERINARY TECHNICIAN INTERNSHIP? Internship is a four-credit course ( ) in the Veterinary Technician curriculum at Madison Area Technical College shall be performed under the following conditions: 1. Students must complete all first year courses in the Veterinary Technician program before enrolling in Internship (with the exception of Laboratory Animal Science 1). 2. Students must be present and participate in the one-day (8 hours total) pre-internship training period conducted by the veterinary instructors. This eight-hour training session is part of the Internship course ( ) and students will be graded for their participation. These 8 hours are credited towards your internship hours. Pre-internship is usually conducted immediately following the second semester (spring) final examination period. Students failing to participate in this training will receive an incomplete grade for the Internship course and will not be allowed to intern until later. 28

29 3. Students will be registered for the Internship course ( ) with fees paid prior to the start of pre-internship orientation day. Students should register for Internship at the same time they register for fall semester. 4. Internship will be at an approved location in Wisconsin or a close location in a bordering state. Other locations may be approved under special conditions. The specific practice and type of practice must be approved. Approval will be made by the Employer, Internship Instructor-of-Record, the Program Director, and the Dean. 5. Students are required to intern: a. 288 hours in a mixed practice, OR b. 144 hours in small animal practice and 144 hours in mixed or large animal practice, OR c. 144 hours in laboratory animal facility, zoo, or specialty practice and remainder (144 hours) in a mixed animal practice. 6. Internship duties must include those normally performed as a Veterinary Technician in a veterinary clinic. Performance only as kennel help or receptionist is not acceptable. A practice or referral facility, having no previous experience with Madison College Veterinary Technician interns, will have an on-site visit near the start of the internship period as well as the two regular visits at a later time in the training period. This is done to assure that the student intern will receive the proper on-the-job training. 7. A time span of 288 or more hours of internship are required during an eight or more week time period. If 288 hours are completed prior to a span of eight weeks, the student must continue until eight weeks are completed. 8. The student must keep track of and report the days and number of internship hours worked, and any telephone or address changes. The very high cost of mileage does not allow scheduling instructor visits to students who are not on the job that day. The student intern must also agree to arrange for a student-instructor-employer consultation at the time of the visit. Students will be informed of the dates for instructor visits by mail, , or telephone. 9. All Internship reports and the Internship Workbook are due in the School of Agriscience and Technologies office on a specific pre-scheduled basis regardless of when internship is started for the individual. Students will receive a schedule showing when each report is due. Adequate sized envelopes with proper postage should be used in sending reports. 29