Become a Vet Tech in New Jersey

How to Become a Veterinary Technician in New Jersey

In New Jersey a veterinary technician is an integral part of the veterinary team and has a wide variety of responsibilities in caring for animals. Veterinary technicians are involved in almost every aspect of animal care and perform many clinical tasks while being supervised by a licensed veterinarian. Some of the duties include performing laboratory tests, providing dental care, and recording the animal’s case history.  Veterinary technicians in New Jersey generally work in a clinical office of a veterinarian, an animal hospital, or in research facilities. 

The field of veterinary medicine is growing at a phenomenal rate, with national growth expected to increase by 36%, and growth in New Jersey to top 38% through the year 2016.

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Upon completion of high school, individuals in New Jersey should enroll in a minimum of a two year associate program while those completing a four year program are considered veterinary technologists.  Students should have an aptitude for math and science since many of the courses in a veterinary program will include a focus on these types of courses.  It is highly recommended that aspiring students of New Jersey vet tech programs prepare by taking as many math and science courses as possible during high school in preparation for the demanding courses in a veterinary program. 

The state of New Jersey requires technicians to pass a national exam upon completion of a program that is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
The national exam is the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and is an entry-level exam that is administered every January and June.  Applications and additional test eligibility information can be found on the AAVSB website @ http://www.aavsb.org/VTNE/. 

Though certification is not a requirement in New Jersey, it is recommended that veterinary technicians certify through the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) before seeking employment in the field.  Most employers prefer to hire only certified technicians, making the certification a valuable resource. There are three levels of certification offered by the AALAS which are, animal health and welfare,   facility management, and animal husbandry.  A full listing of requirements for the certification can be found on the AALAS website @ http://www.aalas.org/index.aspx#.