Veterinary Technician

Program description - January 2026

We have designed this two-year Ontario College diploma program for those passionate about animal care and dedicated to becoming Registered Veterinary Technicians. This challenging program equips you with the knowledge and skills for a rewarding career as a valued team member working alongside veterinarians, public health officers, research scientists, and other veterinary industry partners.

Our curriculum covers various subjects, including nutrition, clinical pathology, microbiology, diagnostic imaging, anatomy, physiology, and genetics. These studies will provide a comprehensive understanding of critical large and small animal behaviours, veterinary nursing, and the care of many species.

One of the unique aspects of our program is the humane approach to veterinary technology education. We use simulation, advanced models, and true-to-life scenarios to focus on skills development. This innovative approach allows students to learn, practice, master skills, and apply their knowledge without any risk to actual animals.

You will gain direct access to the animal care industry upon demonstrating success in various skills, working with live animals in field placements. This hands-on experience and your academic knowledge and skills training will round out your education and prepare you for a fulfilling career as a Veterinary Technician. All graduates are encouraged to become Registered Veterinary Technicians upon graduation.

Our program is designed for those who love animals and have a history of caring for them, and therefore, prior experience with animals, gained through pet ownership, working or volunteering in veterinary clinics, farms, or other relevant animal industries, is highly recommended. This experience will provide a practical understanding of animal behaviours and needs, which can be invaluable in your studies and future career as a Veterinary Technician.

Note:

• This is a highly competitive program. Apply by February 1 (for September), July 15 (for January). See oversubscribed programs for more information.
• Students living outside of Ontario are not eligible to apply.

Accreditation and Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) eligibility

The Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians (OAVT) accredits all Veterinary Technician programs in Ontario. Once accredited, graduates are eligible to sit for the VTNE and apply for membership with OAVT to begin the process of becoming a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). Conestoga College has created and developed this program utilizing the current accreditation requirements, however, we cannot formally apply for accreditation until our program opens in September 2025. This is the normal process for new programs and the first assessment would occur throughout the initial intakes of students.

As this is an external assessment, we cannot guarantee the program will be successful in its accreditation. However, Conestoga has significant experience in accrediting other programs and has taken every step to ensure a smooth accreditation process. We want to assure you that we are taking every measure to ensure a successful accreditation, but in full transparency, also ensure you are aware that the program accreditation is in progress, and if unsuccessful, could negatively affect your ability to write the VTNE, and become an RVT in Ontario.