The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine’s bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology has cleared the final hurdle on the path to becoming a sanctioned program. The Missouri Coordinating Board of Higher Education has given the green light for the CVM to begin offering the Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology Program this fall.
The online, asynchronous program will allow veterinary technicians who have an associate’s degree to continue working while pursuing a bachelor’s degree. It is a first-of-its-kind program to be offered by a college of veterinary medicine.
“There is no maximum number of students who can enroll in the BSVT program, and they can work toward this advanced degree from anywhere and at any time,” said Cindy Cravens, DVM, director of the program. “We anticipate a high level of interest within the first few years of the program and hope to create an active learning environment by encouraging both novice and veteran technicians to work together in these online classrooms.”
The BSVT program will accept technicians who have earned their associate’s degree through American Veterinary Medical Association-accredited Associate of Applied Science programs. Most courses will be taught by MU CVM faculty and staff with some adjunct instructors. Much of the coursework already exists through the CVM’s established online learning opportunities.
“The final approval from the state is great news,” said CVM Dean Carolyn Henry, DVM, MS. “We began the process to develop this program more than two years ago in response to a shortage of veterinary technicians throughout the country. This degree completion program is one means to help remediate that concern. Providing an opportunity for technicians to further their education while continuing to work will open doors for career advancement, thus encouraging skilled technicians to remain in the field.”
Technicians who work at the MU Veterinary Health Center can qualify for tuition assistance as they earn a bachelor’s degree.
The Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology Program will launch at the same time as a new collaboration between the CVM and Moberly Area Community College. The MACC program allows students to earn an associate’s degree in veterinary technology in five semesters with students taking didactic studies though MACC and completing clinical training at the VHC.
The MU College of Veterinary Medicine is Missouri’s only institution that confers the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Thank you for exploring how you can partner with us to make a positive difference in the lives of animals and people.