Kent State University at Trumbull now offers a veterinary
technology program.

Veterinary technology students may soon be practicing their craft on real “patients” as Kent State University at Trumbull began offering classes in the field this fall.

When fall classes began in August, Kent State Trumbull not only welcomed a bevy of new and returning students, but new course work for the associate of applied science in veterinary technology program as well. Prerequisite courses in math and science, as well as the Kent Core classes, are now available along with the specialized veterinary technology courses.

There are only three accredited veterinary technology programs in Ohio, and Kent State Trumbull is only the second campus in the Kent State University eight-campus system offering the program, joining Kent State University at Tuscarawas.

Specifically, Kent State Trumbull is now offering two program courses, including Introduction to Veterinary Technology and Anatomy for Veterinary Technicians.

"We are very pleased that Kent State Tuscarawas has agreed to bring this program to Kent State Trumbull," says Robert Sines, dean of Kent State Trumbull. "We have many outstanding veterinary clinics in the area, and this new program will give us a chance to produce some excellent employees for those clinics. The time to offer this program at our campus is right due to the demand for veterinary technology graduates and also because of the lack of accredited veterinary technology programs in the area."

The veterinary technology program at Kent State Tuscarawas was launched in the fall of 2006 and has been very successful in educating and placing veterinary technologists throughout Tuscarawas County. By partnering with Kent State Tuscarawas to offer courses leading to this degree at Kent State Trumbull, the university is leveraging the experience and expertise of those working in the Tuscarawas program to make the exciting educational opportunity available in the Trumbull area.

"This program is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with animals and who also have an understanding of the field of veterinary technology and medicine," adds James Ritter, Ph.D., director of Enrollment Management and Student Services at Kent State Trumbull.

"The program is selective but those who have 40 or more field experience hours can gain points to help them be selected," Ritter continued. "Also, graduates have the opportunity to be licensed as a registered veterinary technician in the state of Ohio. I like the fact that a practicum is an option for students so they can have actual hands-on experience when they graduate."

The veterinary technology curriculum combines general education courses and rigorous coursework in science, animal health, management and veterinary medical concepts. Students must have a 2.5 grade point average and complete all prescribed developmental courses to apply.

The Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology degree is designed to prepare graduates to serve as veterinary technicians performing support functions, including routine laboratory and clinical procedures. Other growing employment opportunities are expected in biomedical research, diagnostic laboratories, wildlife facilities, humane societies and animal control facilities. Courses for this program apply toward the Bachelor of Technical and Applied Studies for students who want to get into a veterinary management position.

This story first appeared in Kent State University at Trumbull's Campus Connections newsletter.