🐾 Animal Care ↑ 20% growth Β· Much faster than average

Veterinary Technician (RVT/CVT)

Vet techs are the RNs of veterinary medicine β€” assisting with surgeries, taking X-rays, running lab tests, and monitoring anesthesia. They're in massive demand due to a national shortage, and specialty vet tech salaries can reach $70K+.

$40,070 Median Salary
121K US Jobs
2 years Training
$10,000–$35,000 Typical Cost

πŸ’° Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages β€” local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$30,000
Median
$40,070
Experienced
$58,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

πŸ“ˆ Job Outlook

20%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Much faster than average
121K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
RVT, CVT, or LVT
Required Credential
RVT, CVT, or LVT (VTNE exam + state license)

πŸŽ“ Training & Education

Typical Program
AAS in Veterinary Technology (AVMA-accredited)
Program Length
2 years
Typical Tuition
$10,000–$35,000
Work Setting
Veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, zoos, research labs
πŸ† Credential Required: RVT, CVT, or LVT (VTNE exam + state license)

β˜€οΈ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Veterinary Technician (RVT/CVT) involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Veterinary clinics environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • βœ… Strong job security
  • βœ… Rewarding work
  • βœ… Clear career progression
  • βœ… Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 93

St. Petersburg College

πŸ“ St. Petersburg, FL

Pinellas County's primary college with unique programs including Vet Tech and Funeral Service in addition to allied heal...

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygieneDental AssistingFuneral Service
Public State College
⭐ 92

Santa Fe College

πŸ“ Gainesville, FL

Top-rated college in North Central Florida. Particularly strong in veterinary technology, nursing, and trades....

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygienePhysical Therapist AssistantEMS
Vocational School
⭐ 80

Carrington College - Las Vegas

πŸ“ Las Vegas, NV

ACCJC-accredited Las Vegas career college with nursing, dental, pharmaceutical, and veterinary technology programs offer...

Nursing (RN)Dental AssistingMedical AssistingMedical Billing & CodingPharmacy Tech
Vocational School
⭐ 81

Pima Medical Institute - Las Vegas

πŸ“ Las Vegas, NV

Employee-owned medical career college founded in 1972 with Las Vegas campus offering 11 programs in dental, medical, and...

Medical AssistingDental AssistingPharmacy TechRadiologic TechnologyNursing (CNA)

πŸ—ΊοΈ Veterinary Technician (RVT/CVT) by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: