The Bachelor in Veterinary Technology Program prepares students to become Veterinary Technologists. The program provides the future professional with the knowledge and specific skills necessary in the field of veterinary technology, and helps develop those skills necessary to successfully practice in the field. It is also expected that, through coordination with other programs, a significant contribution to animal disease prevention be made in benefit to the Puerto Rican society.
Upon completion of this Veterinary Technology Program, the graduate must be able to demonstrate the entry-level competencies and technical skills to administer medication, obtain and record case history and physical exams, advise and educate animal owners in nutrition and animal health, read and fill veterinary prescriptions, expose and develop radiographs, prepare animals, instruments and equipment for surgery, assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures, assist in administration of anesthesia to all species of animals, perform dental prophylaxes, and collect specimens and perform laboratory procedures, such as urinalysis, blood cells count and fluid/tissue cytology. Students also obtain skills in client education, grief counseling and public relations. The graduate, also will be prepared to play an important role in human health care by safeguarding food-producing animals and by controlling animal diseases that may affect humans.
This challenging and rewarding program offers quality academics and practical experiences, which provide a solid foundation for graduates who are entering various career paths within the exciting profession of veterinary technology. Graduates may find employment in a variety of professional settings, which include:
- small, large, or mixed animal veterinary practices
- animal shelters
- veterinary pharmaceutical companies
- medical equipment and nutritional sales
- zoological parks and wildlife facilities
- research facilities
- local and federal government agencies
- post-secondary institutions and regulatory bodies
The Veterinary Technology Program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association since 1996, and the next accreditation visit is scheduled for 2023.
In order to practice as a Veterinary Technologist in Puerto Rico, graduates must take the Puerto Rico Veterinary Technology Board Test (PRVTT), offered by Junta Examinadora de Médicos Veterinarios de Puerto Rico. Graduates performance in the Puerto Rico Veterinary Technology Board Test for the last three years is as follows:
| July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|
| Number of first-time candidates that have taken the Puerto Rico Veterinary Technology Board | 31 |
| Three-year PRVTB pass percentage | 50% |
Graduates may also take the Veterinary Technician National Examination, VTNE. *VTNE is not required to practice veterinary technology in Puerto Rico. Graduates performance in the VTNE for the last three years is as follows:
| July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2023 | |
|---|---|
| *Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE | 8 |
| Three-year VTNE pass percentage | 87.5% |
Admission Requirements
In order to be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- General and basic sciences courses are required as stated below. For specific courses within each subject, please contact the program.
Required Courses
| Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| English | 6 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Spanish | 6 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Social Sciences | 6 Semester Credit – Hours |
| General Biology | 6 Semester Credit – Hours |
| General Chemistry | 8 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Organic Chemistry | 8 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Calculus or Pre-Calculus | 4 Semester Credit – Hours |
| General Physics | 8 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Statistics | 3 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Electives | 9 Semester Credit – Hours |
| Total | 64 Semester Credit – Hours |
Other Requirements
- Grade Point Average of at least 2.00 in all required courses.
- Obtain a Specific Grade Point Average of at least 2.00 in science and mathematics courses.
- Interview with faculty members and obtain at least a 70%. The interview assesses non-cognitive traits such as: communication skills, motivation to pursue the career of veterinary technology, and professional behavior and attitude.
- A maximum of 12 credits can be pending to the summer session prior admission.
- All candidates must meet the physical and cognitive standards required to perform clinical essential skills.
- Fluency in Spanish and knowledge and comprehension of English.
- Applicants must have completed the required 64 credits or finish the requirements during the summer preceding the beginning of the program.
Admission Criteria Weight
- Grade Point Average 35%
- Specific Grade Point Average 50%
- Interview 15%
Course Descriptions
Informative Sheet
Graduation Requirements
In order to graduate, students must:
- Obtain a grade point average of at least 2.00.
- Complete the program’s 130 credits-hours.
- Complete the degree within 5 years.
Program Faculty
Dr. Elizabeth Rivera, Director
Dr. Melween Martínez
Dr. José Vientos
Dr. Luis Javier Santiago
Prof. Ivette Medina
Physical Address
Medical Center Complex
Dr. José Celso Barbosa Boulevard, Río Piedras, Puerto Rico
Dr. Guillermo Arbona Building, 10thFloor, Office #1060
Telephones
Director – 787-758-2525, ext. 1051
Secretary – 787-758-2525, ext. 1051- 1022
Fax 787-250-0536
Professional Links
American Veterinary Medical Association
https://www.avma.org/Pages/home.aspx
American Journals of Veterinary Professions
http://www.avma.org/publications/default.asp
Care for Animals
http://www.avma.org/careforanimals/default.asp