Veterinary Medical Technology

Bachelor of Science, Veterinary Medical Technology

Top 5 Reasons to Study

01

Growing Demand for Skilled Professionals: The veterinary industry is expanding due to increased pet ownership and advancements in animal healthcare. Veterinary technologists are in high demand, offering job security and diverse career opportunities.

02

Hands-On Role in Animal Care: Veterinary technologists play a critical role in treating and caring for animals. If you’re passionate about animal health and want to make a difference, this field allows you to work directly with patients.

03

Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can have careers in private practices, specialty clinics, research, zoos, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and public health and regulatory agencies. This versatility means you can tailor your career to your interests.

04

Contribution to Public Health: Veterinary technologists help prevent and manage zoonotic diseases (those that can transfer from animals to humans), making this profession vital for community health and safety.

05

Rewarding and Meaningful Work: For those who love animals and science, this career offers emotional fulfillment and intellectual challenge. You’ll be part of a team that improves the lives of pets and their owners every day.

Core
Skills

  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of animal structure and function, forming the scientific foundation essential for all clinical tasks.
  • Receive training, including hands-on experience in areas like clinical pathology (lab work), diagnostic imaging (X‑rays, ultrasounds), and anesthesia monitoring—skills vital for patient assessment and treatment.
  • Learn to assist in surgeries, administer anesthetics, monitor vital signs during procedures, and ensure patient safety.
  • Participate in routine clinical rotations where you will practice physical exams, safe restraint, first aid, and emergency care—preparing you for real-world veterinary environments.
  • Learn to maintain accurate records, educate pet owners on care and nutrition, and uphold professional and ethical standards in patient handling and confidentiality.

Sample
Jobs

  • Emergency and Critical Care Veterinary Medical Technologist
  • Veterinary Public Health Technologist
  • Veterinary Technology Educator
  • Research Lab Animal Technologist
  • Zoo / Wildlife Veterinary Technologist

Successful Career Outcomes

$46,280 Average starting salary Varies widely based on location and type of practice
89% Job Placement Rate Most graduates have accepted or been offered positions prior to graduation
80% VTNE Pass Rate

Top
Employment
Industries

  • Private Practice
  • Research
  • Industry
  • Specialty Hospitals
  • College of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospitals

Brag
Points

  • The MSU VMT Program is one of only four in the country that is embedded within a college of veterinary medicine.
  • Our students receive over 400 hours of hands-on clinical training, encompassing more than 300 essential skills.
  • Due to their comprehensive understanding of disease processes, pain management, and anesthesia, our students become proficient in triaging and monitoring multiple patients while ensuring the delivery of high-quality care.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

At Mississippi State University’s VMT Program, experiential learning isn’t just a requirement — it’s an adventure.
Our students complete two immersive externship experiences, giving them the freedom to go anywhere in the world to gain real‑world veterinary training. From zoos, rehabilitation centers, and equine sports medicine clinics to specialty practices, marine mammal facilities, and even a wildlife preserve in South Africa — our students design the path that fits their career goals.

The possibilities are limitless. The experience is unforgettable. The future is yours to create.

Spotlight

At MSU, our Veterinary Medical Technology students dive into a world of hands-on learning—accomplished through interactive and engaging laboratory experiences, clinical rotations, and externship opportunities. From caring for beloved pets like dogs and cats to working with horses, cattle, and even exotic species, you’ll gain real experience that sets you apart. This diverse training prepares you to become a well-rounded veterinary professional ready for any challenge

Veterinary Medical Technology

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Bachelor of Science, Veterinary Medical Technology

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Student
Testimonial

“The Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Medical Technology Program plays a significant role in supplying a competent workforce in veterinary medicine. Credit is due to the program’s fantastic instructors, who are accessible not just during office hours but also outside of them. They conduct labs that help us put what was covered in lecture into practice, preparing us for real-life clinical experiences.

Veterinary medical technicians are vital members of the clinical team, and they put the heart in veterinary medicine, often making the little things that mean the most happen for patients and their owners. I’m honored to be entering this profession.”

Eliu Puerto Rodriguez,
VMT Class of 2026 Class President