Veterinary Technology

Who is eligible for admission to the program?

At this time, enrollment is restricted to students from Virginia who are unable to attend the on-campus program because of family or other obligations. AVMA accreditation requirements do not allow us to take students from other states.

Must I complete all of the general education courses before I apply to the program?

No, however, all of the general education courses must be completed before students will be allowed the enter the veterinary technology program.

How do I apply?

Submit the required items to the BRCC Admissions & Records Office.  See Admission Requirements.  Please be sure to indicate on your application that you are applying for the distance education program. 

What happens after I apply?

You will receive a letter of admission to BRCC as a non-curricular student. Qualified students will be invited to BRCC for an interview with a veterinary technology faculty member.

Will I be a BRCC student?

Yes, once accepted into the BRCC Veterinary Technology DE program you will register for classes at BRCC.

How long does the program take to complete?

Three years. This includes 9 continuous semesters (summers also). Students starting June 2009 will graduate in May 2012.

How competitive is the program?

More students apply to the program than seats are available in the specialized classrooms. (The distance education classrooms only hold 20 students) This program is designed for students who cannot move to Weyers Cave for the full-time, 21-month program.

What factors are considered in the admissions process?

Students are evaluated on their previous academic performance, veterinary experience, and aptitude for the profession.

Must I be employed by a veterinarian?

Yes, you are required to work at least 20 hours per week for a veterinarian. The veterinarian must be eligible to be appointed as a BRCC adjunct faculty member and be willing to assist you in your studies. Many of the tasks taught in your courses are performed in your practice. The veterinarian must be willing to sign your task book as each task is performed to his/her satisfaction.

How does this program work?

Classes will be held two days a week at the Virginia Beach campus of Tidewater Community College, the Midlothian campus of John Tyler Community College, the Locust Grove campus of Germanna Community College, and Virginia Western Community College. These will be conducted by compressed video over the Virginia Distance Education Network (VDEN). Instructors and students will be able to see and talk to one another. Students will be provided with course outlines and handouts as in any course. Three times a semester (on prescheduled Fridays) students will come to the BRCC campus for laboratory and practical exams.

What does it cost?

Students are required to take 54 credits from BRCC. In-state tuition and fees are $124.60 per credit hour. ($5837.40 for in-state tuition and fees for the entire program) Out-of-state tuition and fees are $318.20 per credit hour. Textbooks are available at the receiving school’s bookstore and total approximately $1,000 for the entire program.

Am I eligible for financial aid?

Students are eligible for financial aid as long as they are taking more than 6 credits. (the typical distance education student will be taking 6-8 credits per semester). Some scholarships are also available. Many employers have provided financial assistance to their employees to attend this program.

How do I become a licensed veterinary technician?

At the completion of this program you will be eligible to take the National Veterinary Technician Examination.