Didn’t graduate from an AVMA Accredited veterinary technology or veterinary nursing program?

MVTA alternative pathways do not qualify individuals to take the VTNE, however, a passing VTNE grade is required to apply for certification.  Click here for additional VTNE eligibility information.

The following 4 alternative pathway to certification options are available until December 31, 2022.

Applications for certification via an alternative pathway submitted January 1, 2023, or later will not be accepted.

• A degree from a program in veterinary technology that is not accredited by the AVMA or a bachelor's degree in animal science and (1) one year of practical experience as a veterinary technician.
  • One year is defined as twelve months with a minimum of 1500 hours worked.
  • School transcript is required to be submitted and must contain your name, the school's name, and list your degree.
  • Work experience must be documented using the Verification of Practical Experience Form.

• An associate degree in animal science and (3) three years of full-time practical experience as a veterinary technician.
  • Three years is defined as thirty-six months with a minimum of 4500 hours worked.
  • School transcript is required to be submitted and must contain your name, the school's name, and list your degree.
  • Highlight the courses you intend to use towards your certification application.
  • Work experience must be documented using the Verification of Practical Experience Form.

• Employed (5) five full calendar years as a veterinary technician plus (18) eighteen semester hours (college credits) in animal science.
  • Five years is defined as 60 months with a minimum of 7500 hours worked.
  • School transcript is required to be submitted and must contain your name, the school's name, and list your degree.
  • Highlight the courses you intend to use towards your certification application.
  • Work experience must be documented using the Verification of Practical Experience Form.

• Employed (8) eight years full-time as a veterinary technician.
• Eight years is defined as 96 months with a minimum of 12000 hours worked.
• Work experience must be documented using the Verification of Practical Experience Form.

Alternative Pathway to Certification Frequently Asked Questions

New certification application - $65

Please allow 4-6 weeks for application and renewal processing.

Please also note that we no longer have the capacity to review candidate materials prior to formal applications.