Didn’t graduate from an AVMA Accredited veterinary technology or veterinary nursing program?
MVTA alternative pathways do not qualify individuals to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), however, a passing VTNE grade within the past 8 years 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 or veterinary technology.
- 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.
Alternative Pathway to Certification Frequently Asked Questions
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.
|