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Veterinary Science

Veterinary Science

Program Description

Students enrolled in Minuteman’s Veterinary Science career major, which launched in the fall of 2021, will be introduced to several rewarding career opportunities related to veterinary science.

Students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of animals throughout this extensive four-year program. The hands-on skills and training they receive will prepare our students for the role of a veterinary assistant.
 
Veterinary assistants provide care for animals under the supervision of a veterinarian or veterinary technician. The primary responsibilities of a veterinary assistant include hands-on animal care, hospital clerical duties, laboratory and clinical tasks, and client communication/education. Veterinary assistants learn a wide range of skills to effectively assist the veterinary professional team in providing the best care for their patients.

Jobs in the veterinary industry are expected to grow 19% between 2021 and 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. During the pandemic in 2020, about 20% of U.S. households obtained a new dog or cat, according to the ASPCA.

Students who graduate from this program will practice the skills they need to obtain entry level positions at a variety of veterinary/animal care related employers. 

Course Content 

  • Safety and Animal Health
  • Fundamentals of Veterinary Science
    • Animal Welfare/Rights
    • Breeds and Species
    • Medical Terminology
    • Veterinary Industry
    • Animal Behavior
    • Animal Disease Prevention
  • Husbandry and Housing
  • Handling and Restraint

 

 

  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Nutrition
  • Office and Client Relations
  • Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction
  • Animal Nursing
  • Disease and Pathology
  • Laboratory Procedures
  • Pharmacy and Pharmacology
  • Imaging Modalities
  • Surgical Assisting

WBZ Profile on Minuteman Vet Science Program

Industry Certifications

Certified Veterinary Assistant Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid Canine and Feline Advanced Life Support and CPR Fear-Free Certification OSHA-10 (Career Safe Veterinary Specific) INDEXX In-House Analyzer Training Certifications Purina “Nutrition Matters” Certification Virbac Dental Ambassador Certification

Possible Career Pathways

Animal Care and Service Workers Animal Law Animal Trainers Administrative Support in Clinics and Hospitals Equine Management Farmers Groomers Marine Biologists Research and Laboratory Animal Technicians Shelter Medicine and Animal Sheltering Practice Surgical/Specialty Practices Veterinary Assistants Credentialed Veterinary Technicians/Technologists Veterinarians Wildlife Rehabilitators Zookeepers and Zoologists

Salary

National averages: Veterinarians: $125,475-$200,000 Credentialed Veterinary Technicians: $48,135 Veterinary Assistants: $42,325 Massachusetts averages: Veterinarians: $125,475-$200,000 Credentialed Veterinary Technicians: $56,110 - $70,000 Veterinary Assistants: $49,610

College Partners

Keene State College

Advisory Committee Partners

BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital Zoo New England Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School UMass Amherst (Previously Mount Ida College) Veterinary Technology Program MassHire Workforce Development Boards United Veterinary Care Greenwood Farm/Black Walnut Meadows Codman Community Farms Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) VCA Hospitals Essex Tech

Veterinary Science Instructors