1. Where is the program located?
We are located inside the Agriculture Building on the Modesto Junior College East Campus. Office #120 in the Ag Building The address is: 435 College Ave. Modesto, Ca 95350
2. How can I contact a real person with the program?
Please see the contact information located at the bottom of each page on this site for information on who you can contact.
3. Is the program accredited?
Our program is operating under the Alternate Route Guide lines set up by the A.V.M.A. Through the alternate route, we offer the classroom education that students need in order to meet the academic requirements of the C.A. state Registered Veterinary Technician exam. These classes along with 4,416 hours of experience in the veterinary industry are what qualifies students for the state exam. We have several programs in place to help students get their hours of experience started while still attending classes.
4. What certificates are granted by the program?
A certificate of completion is granted to each student that successfully completes each course with a grade of “C” or better. At the completion of the program the student is also eligible for a program certificate from MJC.
5. Who teaches the classes?
California licensed veterinarians from our area teach the majority of the courses. One or two classes per year may be taught by a highly qualified R.V.T. with expertise in a specific area.
6. Where are the classes taught?
The majority of our courses are taught in the Agriculture building on the Modesto Junior College East Campus. A few of the lab courses may be taught in one of the animal units on the MJC West Campus. All class locations are listed in the class schedules.
7. Are there live animals used in the program?
At this time there are no live animals owned by the program. Students are invited to bring their animals from home when non-invasive labs are in session. Through the use of manikins and dummies owned by the program all labs are completed thoroughly and safely.
8. Explain the application process.
The First step is to apply at MJC and become a student, then you may apply for courses as listed in the catalog for each semester. Link to MJC home page explanation of the application process.
9. Are there any prerequisites?
There are no prerequisites for the veterinary technician program at this time.Enrollment at MJC is required in order to sign up for courses.There is no entrance exam required at this time.
The faculty does Highly recommend the following courses or their equivalent for success in the program:
a. MANSC 55 Introduction to Veterinary Technology 3 units
b. MBIO 111 General Biology 4 units (Link)
c. MCHEM 101 General Chemistry 5 units (Link)
d. MENGL 49 Basic English Skills 5 units (Link)
e. MENGL 50 Basic Composition 5 units (Link)
f. MMATH 20 Pre-Algebra 3 units (Link)
Please note that these classes are not required for entrance into any course in the program. They are suggested as a guide to student success in the program.
10. When does the program start each year?
Classes begin in August every year for the Fall semester. Students are welcome to begin the program in either the Fall or Spring semester. Spring semester begins in January of each year.
11. What is the Alternate Route?
The Alternate Route is a program that is designed to allow educational institutions such as MJC to provide a certificate program in the veterinary technician field. The courses are under the same strict guidelines as other courses at MJC and have been specifically designed for our program.
12. When are the classes offered?
Classes are offered during the fall and spring semesters at MJC.
13. Do you offer online classes?
At this time we do not offer any online classes.
14. Are their summer classes offered?
At this time no summer classes are being offered.
15. May I attend part time?
Students are encouraged to attend classes at what ever pace they feel most comfortable and will be most successful.
16. How long will it take to finish the program?
If a student was to take all of the classes offered each semester and was successful in each class, the program would be completed in one year. Part time and unsuccessful completion of a course would extend this time period.
17. How much does the program cost?
Unit fees at MJC apply to our courses. Please see registration link.
Books and other supplies vary with each class and instructor.
18. How do I contact a Vet Tech counselor?
Please see contact information to set up an appointment for counseling.
19. Where do I get financial aid information?
Please look on the MJC home page for financial aid information.
20. What is the job market like for veterinary technicians?
Currently the demand in our area for registered veterinary technicians is quite high. Due to the large amount of responsibility and the ability of an RVT to perform a wide variety of tasks, many clinics are continuously looking for qualified RVT’s.
21. What is the pay scale for an RVT?
Typically the pay scale for an RVT begins in the range of $12-$15 per hour. With experience and promotion the scale goes up to $15.00-$20.00 per hour. When technicians enter the training or management areas of a clinic, industry polls suggest that the scale then reaches $25.00-$30.00 per hour. Benefits and pay scales very greatly from clinic to clinic.
22. Can I place an ad for a vettech staff job opening or student help?
Yes you can! Please contact RVT program office to place your ad. See Rules and Regulations
23. How do I learn more about MJC?
Please visit the MJC website or contact Student Life on campus.
24. Can I find a schedule of courses online?
Yes the schedule of courses is always posted on the home page for MJC.
25. Can I come in before school begins to meet with a counselor?
Absolutely! Please see the contact information below.
Contact Info:
Registered Veterinary Technician Office - 209-575-6872
Email: vettech@mjc.edu
