Online veterinary technician degree program kicks off at App State

Virginia Kiefer Corrigan, DVM, MPH, DABVP–Canine/Feline Practice, CCRP, CHPV, pictured with her 13-year-old golden retriever, Yogi, is the new program director of Appalachian State University’s four-year, online Bachelor of Science in veterinary technology. Photo by Amy Gray, Silver Pebble Photography.

Applications for Appalachian State University's (App State) new veterinary technician program are being accepted now until July 1, 2022. This new online course offers the chance for students to earn a 4 year Bachelor of Science degree. Students can learn online but also have the opportunity to receive on-site clinical training. This program, which starts in August 2022, was developed through a partnership with Banfield Pet Hospital.¹

“We are proud to engage in such a forward-thinking partnership to address the market demand for skilled veterinary professionals, especially in rural areas,” said Sheri Everts, App State Chancellor, in an organizational release.¹

“Many thanks to Banfield for their ongoing support of this visionary academic program, which will advance the profession and elevate the role of licensed veterinary technicians. We are excited to welcome our first class of students in fall 2022!” she continued.

According to the release, a study conducted by Banfield in 2020 found that an estimated 75 million pets in the U.S. may not have access to the veterinary care they need by 2030, with the main factor being a critical shortage of veterinary professionals.² Banfield believes that with the demand for more veterinary techs in clinics, this new program can help alleviate the shortage.

Virginia Kiefer Corrigan, DVM, MPH, DABVP–Canine/Feline Practice, CCRP, CHPV, will serve as the director of App State’s veterinary technician program.

“Veterinary medicine is a phenomenal career choice for those who wish to have a significant impact on the health of animals, people, and the environment,” Corrigan said, in the release.¹ “The profession is also facing many challenges that have been amplified by the pandemic. The good news is that there are many exciting opportunities arising as the profession adapts to these challenges.”

This program will include 20 credit hours in foundational subject areas, including science, math, and communication skills; approximately 50 hours of coursework in domain-specific areas; and 240 hours of practical experience obtained through clinical externships in the field.¹

Reference

1. App State’s new online vet tech degree program begins in August 2022. News release. Appalachian State University. May 10, 2022.

2. 75 Million Pets May Not Have Access to Veterinary Care by 2030, New Banfield Pet Hospital® Study Finds. Banfield Pet Hospital. News Release. September 14, 2020.Accessed May 10, 2022. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/75-million-pets-may-not-have-access-to-veterinary-care-by-2030-new-banfield-pet-hospital-study-finds-301130033.html