Des Moines Area Community College.

Veterinary Technology Skills Guide

Recommended High School Level Background Courses

  • *Basic Math
  • *Biology
  • Agricultural Education
  • *Introductory Algebra
  • *Chemistry
  • Keyboarding
  • *General Science
   

* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center

Basic Skills in the Program and on the Job

Reading

Reading materials in the program include textbooks, trade journals, and Internet articles. Textbooks are written at approximately the college level, using technical scientific terminology. Text reading is a central part of the coursework, reinforced by lectures and labs. Tests are based on a combination of these activities. Types of required reading on the job often include manuals and professional publications.

View more information on reading skills in the Veterinary Technology program.

Language

Speaking activities in the program include presentations to instructors as a part of lab practicums. On the job, workers will interact on an individual and small-group basis with customers and staff members including veterinarians, receptions, and other technicians. 

In addition to the assignments in their writing courses, students will compose lab reports and article summaries. A key job responsibility will be to record the results of lab procedures.

Required courses: Fundamentals of Oral Communication (SPC 101) and either Communication Skills (COM 703) or Composition I (ENG 105). 

View more information on language skills in the Veterinary Technology program.

Math

Basic math skills are required both in the program and on the job. These skills are used to calculate formulas involved in determine species-specific quantity levels of feed and dosages of medicines.

Required math course: Applied Math (MAT 772) or any other AAS degree core math course..

View more information on math skills in the Veterinary Technology program.

Learning

Students who succeed in this program combine a satisfactory knowledge of biology and chemistry with a commitment to strong study skills.

Problem-solving skills are required both in the program and on the job. Workers must be able to follow instructions, make accurate observations, and interpret results of lab findings in conjunction with veterinarians.

View more information on learning skills in the Veterinary Technology program.

Computer

Required skills both in the program and on the job include keyboarding, word processing, Internet research, and the ability to use menu-driven programs for maintaining charts and records of drug administration in accordance with state and federal laws..

Students entering the program are expected to have the ability to operate a computer successfully, including keyboarding skills.

View more information on computer skills in the Veterinary Technology program.