• Becoming a veterinary technologist or technician requires more than just a fondness for animals. Those looking to fill these positions must achieve a certain level of education and training to ensure the health and safety of the animals with which they work.
  
  

Degrees

• Entry-level veterinary jobs require at least a two-year associate degree in veterinary technology. To qualify for employment in this field, you must earn this degree from a school that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association. If you are unsure about the accreditation of your chosen school, contact the school or visit the AVMA website for a full listing of accredited colleges.
  
  Most accredited college programs offer only the two-year associate degree; a few, however, offer a four-year bachelor's program for veterinary technician or technologist training. The AVMA states that students who enter the field with the four-year degree often achieve higher starting salaries and have greater responsibilities on the job.
  
  

State Exams

• Upon completion of a two- or four-year degree program, those interested in working as a veterinary technician or technologist must pass a state licensure exam. The exam requirements, length and other details vary from state to state.
  
  In general, these tests include oral, written and practical application sections; the exams are generally graded and regulated by a state board of veterinary examiners or a similar agency. Many states use the National Veterinary Technician exam. If you pass an exam in one state and transfer to a state that uses the same exam, your scores will also transfer.
  
  

Other Training and Qualifications

• Most associate veterinarians start their careers in entry-level positions and gain experience and training while working under the supervision of a veterinarian. The length of the training period can vary depending on the associate's previous practical experience with patients and equipment.
  
  For veterinary associates looking to work in a research lab or other similar facility, many employers recommend becoming certified by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science. Students interested in taking this exam must fulfill educational requirements and have a certain level of experience in an AALAS-defined laboratory.
  
  AALAS has three levels of certification: assistant laboratory animal technician, laboratory animal technician and laboratory animal technologist.