Veterinary Technology

Program Overview

It’s more than a love of animals that inspires people to become veterinary technologists – it’s also a keen interest in science and medicine. If you’re self-motivated and want to be part of a team working to make animals’ lives better, veterinary technology could be a great career fit. Veterinary technologists support veterinarians in vet clinics; work in livestock operations, animal shelters, zoos, diagnostic labs, the government in regulatory roles, such as food inspection and in the veterinary sales industry.

Sask Polytech's two-year Veterinary Technology diploma program is offered at the Saskatoon campus. Get hands-on training in animal nursing, animal care and management, as well as clinical laboratory procedures. You’ll build the knowledge and skills you need to:

assist veterinarians in providing nursing care to patients;
provide assistance to veterinarians during surgery and anesthesia;
perform diagnostic procedures including lab tests and imaging;
perform animal care and husbandry in clinic, livestock and research settings; and
assist in client education.

Application Process Guide

For required information on preparing your application, refer to the Application Process Guide.

5^th& 6^thSemester at Vet College

Your final two semesters take place at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan campus. It’s a chance to learn from leading vet techs and veterinarians; and start working as part of a veterinary team.

Diploma to Degree

Use your Veterinary Technology diploma as a stepping stone to a degree in Animal Bioscience at the U of S College of Agriculture and Bioresources, or Athabasca University in Alberta.

For more information about this program refer to Frequently Asked Questions.

Learning Environment

Very heavy workload with 15-20 per week of homework.
Students are in labs, lectures or clinics from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. There may be clinics scheduled on weekends (Friday evening and Saturday). Some tours and clinics may start earlier than 8:00 am and finish after 4:00 pm. The program uses traditional lectures, laboratories, computer-based learning and tours of farms and other animal handling/processing facilities. Learning also occurs on-site at clinics located in and around Saskatoon and at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Students are expected to provide their own transportation to off-site locations within Saskatoon.
Two 5-week offsite clinical practicums are required in semester 5. Students may select their locations in consultation with the program head.
The opportunity for partial load studies is available; however, students with loans should consult with their granting agency to ensure loan-requirements can be fulfilled. Semesters 5 and 6 cannot be taken on a partial load basis.
There are 26 applicants accepted into the first year of the program.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

As a veterinary technologist, your skills are in demand at veterinary clinics and hospitals, livestock operations, animal shelters, diagnostic labs, research facilities, zoos and game farms. There are also job opportunities with government agencies and in sales. You might also use your skills as the owner/operator of your own kennel or training facility.

Note

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Registered Veterinary Technologist	Animal Health Technologists and Veterinary Technicians (3213)	$26,400 - $46,100

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September

Length:

80 weeks

Year 1 - 41 weeks; Year 2 - 39 weeks

Locations

Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with a minimum of 70% in each of the following subjects: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, and Foundations of Math 30 or Pre-Calculus 30*
A combined average of 70% in English Language Arts A30 and English Language Arts B30
60 hours documented veterinarian-supervised volunteer or work experience
Completion of mandatory orientation
English Language Requirement

Note

For important information, review our Application Process Guide and Frequently Asked Questions.
To comply with safety regulations, students who wear contact lenses must have a pair of prescription glasses to wear in the labs.
Students must be registered, as a student member, with the Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association prior to practicum placement (VETR 183).

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

Minimum of 70% in a 30 level math

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

80 Arithmetic
70 Elementary Algebra
85 Reading
85 Sentence
4 WritePlacer

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $7,700
Year 2 - $7,900

Courses

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

APHY 101

Anatomy and Physiology 1 – Theory

You will learn basic applied anatomy and physiology of domestic animals. You will study the relationship between structure and function beginning at the cellular level through to organ systems. Organ systems covered are the skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 102(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): CHEM 101, LABT 100, VETR 188
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

APHY 102

Anatomy and Physiology 1 – Practical

You will learn basic applied anatomy and physiology of domestic animals through dissection, use of models and physiological tests. Organ systems studied include the skeletal, muscular, digestive, respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): VETR 188
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

CHEM 101

Applied Chemistry for Veterinary Technology

Your studies will provide a brief review of inorganic chemistry and an introduction to organic compounds and biochemical pathways important in understanding the chemical reactions that occur in the body. You will study the physiology of health, nutrition and disease.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): LABT 100, VETR 188
Equivalent Course(s): CHEM 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

LABT 100

Veterinary Laboratory Techniques

Your studies will help you develop basic laboratory skills relevant to the veterinary field. The course content covers how to work safely in laboratory settings. You will also prepare chemical solutions and reagents used in the field of veterinary medicine. Analysis of acids, bases and buffers will be the foundation to understanding the effect of acid-base balance in the veterinary patient.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Corequisites(s): CHEM 101, MATH 280, VETR 188
Equivalent Course(s): CHEM 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

MATH 280

Mathematics for Veterinary Technology

You will review basic mathematical concepts such as ratio, proportion, fractions, decimals, percents and equations. You will also receive an introduction to statistics and graphing. Your studies will focus on units of measurement, drug dosage calculations, IV flow rate calculations, and dilution and solution calculations.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

VETR 182

Veterinary Nursing Skills 1

You will practice common nursing skills such as handling syringes and biologicals, safe animal restraint, various injection techniques, intubation, bandaging and physical assessment. These skills, frequently used in veterinary clinics will be utilized during first and second year clinical rotations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, VETR 187, VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

VETR 183

Introduction to Veterinary Technology (Clinics)

You will be exposed to the operation of veterinary practices through assigned rotations at local veterinary clinics. You will apply competencies acquired during your education in the Veterinary Technology program.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Corequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, VETR 182, VETR 187, VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 184

Veterinary Tours 1

You will tour various animal production and research facilities. You will report on variations in housing, health management, feeding and breeding options.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 186

Human Animal Bond, Ethics and the Law

You will be introduced to aspects of the human-animal bond and legislation that applies to veterinary technology. You will investigate ethics as it pertains to the field of veterinary technology.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 187

Animal Behaviour

You will be introduced to the study of domesticated animal behaviour and behaviour modifications. With this knowledge you will be able to work with the four main domestic species in a safe manner.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 188

Veterinary Medical Terminology

You will learn to use the prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms from which veterinary medical terms are derived, as well as the correct way to use medical abbreviations. You will also learn how to translate veterinary medical terminology for use with clients.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 189

Veterinary Client Relations

You will be introduced to personality type in relation to effective communication and stress management strategies. You will participate in customized activities to gain an understanding of effective listening and customer service skills.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANIM 282

Care and Management of Domestic Animals

You will focus on basic information on nutrition, housing, behavior, breed characteristics, aging and care of the newborn. Diseases common to large domestic animal and poultry species will also be discussed. You will receive hands-on experience with handling, restraining, hoof care and/or trimming, grooming, injection sites and venipuncture.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 187
Equivalent Course(s): ANIM 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

APHY 280

Anatomy and Physiology 2

Your studies will focus on the structure and function of blood and the lymphatic system, the nervous system and sensory organs. The lab will provide hands-on study of important physiological principles and anatomical structures through models and dissection of preserved specimens.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102
Corequisites(s): APHY 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

APHY 281

Anatomy and Physiology 3

Your studies will focus on the structure and function of the endocrine, urinary, reproductive, as well as the integument of domestic animals. The lab will provide hands-on study of important physiological principles and anatomical structures through models and dissection of preserved specimens.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 280(concurrent)
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

MICR 186

Clinical Microbiology

You will be introduced to bacteria, viruses and fungi and how they cause disease in animals. You will also be introduced to antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance. The laboratory component of this course teaches aseptic technique, how to properly handle clinical samples and how to perform basic procedures carried out in a clinical setting.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): CHEM 101, LABT 100
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

RDGR 183

Diagnostic Imaging 1

You will receive instruction and experience in radiation safety, patient positioning, diagnostic imaging techniques and evaluating images for diagnostic acceptability. You will maintain equipment, recognize and troubleshoot malfunctions.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, VETR 182, VETR 187
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 100

Animal Diseases 1

Your studies will cover general principles of disease in both large and small animals. You will learn about temperature regulation, dehydration, shock, heart failure and respiratory and gastrointestinal disease.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, MATH 280
Corequisites(s): APHY 280, APHY 281, MICR 186, VETR 191
Equivalent Course(s): VETR 279
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 190

Veterinary Nursing Skills 2

You will practice common nursing skills such as catheterization, IV fluid administration, urine collection, and eye and ear therapeutic procedures frequently used in veterinary clinics. You will also learn how to perform routine maintenance on common veterinary clinical equipment. These skills will be utilized during first and second year clinical rotations.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, VETR 182
Corequisites(s): APHY 280, APHY 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

VETR 191

Large Animal Medicine 1

Your studies will cover principles of large animal specific disease descriptions along with technical guidance for commonly performed large animal techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 101, APHY 102, VETR 184, VETR 187, VETR 100(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 280, APHY 281
Equivalent Course(s): VETR 279
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 287

Applied Veterinary Technology (Clinics)

You will continue to build onto your skills and knowledge developed in first semester by applying new competencies acquired during your education and training in second semester of the Veterinary Technology program.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 182, VETR 183, VETR 187
Corequisites(s): APHY 280, APHY 281, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 190, VETR 191
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COMM 287

Communications

You will learn the basic skills of oral and interpersonal communication, emphasizing the role of the veterinary technologist. Positive interpersonal interactions, customer service and teamwork will be stressed. You will also learn about the job search process, which includes developing a resume and letter of application.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 189
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning

GENE 182

Veterinary Genetics

You will study transmission genetics, inheritance, pedigree, cell division, breed identification and the nature of genetic information.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 188
Equivalent Course(s): GENE 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

IMMU 281

Immunology

Your studies will focus on the various aspects of the immune system along with clinical tests and their interpretations. You will explore methods of stimulating the immune response and some of the common immune-mediated diseases.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 192

Veterinary Office Procedures

You will be introduced to the day-to-day activities involved in managing clients, patients and their medical files within a veterinary clinic setting. You will also be introduced to front office management and a veterinary software program.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 193

Exotics

You will be familiarized with the anatomy, physiology, breed identification, handling, and common diseases of avian, reptile, amphibian, ferret and pocket pet species.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 286

Veterinary Technology Dentistry

Your studies will focus on the components of dental care in small animals and horses. You will develop skills in oral examination, disease recognition, care and use of dental equipment and home dental care. You will also perform routine dental prophylaxis and dental radiography on models and cadavers.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 288

Veterinary Tours 2

Building on the skills you developed in Veterinary Tours 1 (VETR 184), you will participate in tours associated with the animal industry. You will attend a seminar on employment opportunities in non-traditional employment fields.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): VETR 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANES 279

Veterinary Anesthesia 1

You will be introduced to common anesthetic drug classes, analgesics and anesthetic equipment used in veterinary practice. You will learn the basics of monitoring animals during anesthesia and be able to describe evaluation and management of pain.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288
Corequisites(s): PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, VETR 292, VETR 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

ANIM 182

Care and Management of Laboratory Animals

You will study animal production, animal diets, research protocols and care and management. Laboratory experiences will allow you to practice handling, injections and sample collection in small laboratory species.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

NUTR 200

Animal Health and Nutrition

Your studies will guide you in the feeding of animals including an understanding of key nutritional factors in disease conditions and therapeutic foods. You will learn how to advise clients about feeding companion animals including the prevention of obesity.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 281, CHEM 101
Equivalent Course(s): SEM 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

PATH 201

Clinical Pathology - Theory

Your studies will focus on the composition, structure, function and chemical components of blood in selected domestic animals. You will learn the normal parameters for health and changes that occur in disease states. This knowledge will be enhanced by practical applications in Clinical Pathology-Practical (PATH 202).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288, PATH 202(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): ANES 279, PHAR 203, VETR 292, VETR 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

PATH 202

Clinical Pathology - Practical

You will develop practical skills in hematology, clinical chemistry and urinalysis. Your training will include use of spectrophotometry, reflectance photometry, impedance technology, laser flow cytometry, serological testing, blood typing, urinalysis, and common manual diagnostic procedures, as well as slide differentials. You will perform quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of results.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288, PATH 201(concurrent)
Corequisites(s): ANES 279, PHAR 203, VETR 292, VETR 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

PHAR 203

Veterinary Pharmacology

You will discuss routes of drug administration, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and how they influence plasma drug levels and drug safety. You will be introduced to common classes of drugs used in veterinary medicine.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288
Corequisites(s): ANES 279, PATH 201, PATH 202, VETR 292, VETR 293
Equivalent Course(s): VETR 290
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

PRST 280

Veterinary Parasitology

You will study the helminth, protozoan and arthropod parasites that affect animals and learn which parasites are important in North America. Your studies will focus on diagnostic features, life cycles, pathogenesis, control and zoonotic potential. You will learn to perform fecal exams and to identify various parasite lifecycle stages during laboratory exercises.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 200

Animal Diseases 2

You will be introduced to pathological mechanisms and specific diseases common to small animals. Emphasis is placed on triage and the technologist’s role in case management. Toxicology, disease prevention and treatment, patient monitoring and nursing care are discussed.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): APHY 281, MICR 186, VETR 100
Equivalent Course(s): VETR 279
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

VETR 292

Surgical Nursing Skills

You will learn and practice skills required to be competent as a circulating or scrub nurse within an operating room. You will build on the sterility concepts developed in Clinical Microbiology (MICR 186) and apply these concepts to the veterinary surgical suite.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288
Corequisites(s): ANES 279, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, VETR 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 293

Veterinary Nursing Skills 3

You will practice common nursing skills such as electrocardiography (ECG), blood pressure, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and fine needle aspirate techniques which are frequently used in veterinary clinics. These skills will be utilized during second year clinical rotations and senior practicum.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANIM 282, APHY 281, COMM 287, GENE 182, IMMU 281, MICR 186, RDGR 183, VETR 100, VETR 186, VETR 190, VETR 191, VETR 192, VETR 193, VETR 286, VETR 287, VETR 288
Corequisites(s): ANES 279, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, VETR 292
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANES 281

Veterinary Anesthesia 2

You will be introduced to the principles of anesthetic management. You will discuss parameters of pre-anesthetic management and post-operative care. You will learn how to intubate and apply blocks to control pain.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

PHAR 281

Veterinary Pharmacy Skills

You will be introduced to federal and provincial drug regulations and the implications to veterinary drugs. You will learn how to effectively assist veterinarians with pharmacy-related functions.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

PRAC 284

Veterinary Practicum

You will spend five weeks in each of two different approved veterinary practices or associated fields (i.e. research facilities). You will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the program in a real work setting.
Credit Units: 20
Course Hours: 300.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, BKPG 280, CHEM 280, COMM 287, HEMA 282, IMMU 281, PRST 280, SEM 281, VETR 290
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, ANES 282, PHAR 281, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 289
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

RDGR 282

Diagnostic Imaging 2

You will review and refresh your knowledge of common diagnostic imaging procedures of both small and large animals prior to entering the clinical rotation portion of the Veterinary Technology program.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

VETR 282

Large Animal Medicine 2

You will learn how to handle, restrain and perform specified procedures on food animals and equine species. Safety requirements involved in dealing with large animals will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, RDGR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

VETR 294

Veterinary Nursing Skills 4

You will review and refresh your skills in common nursing procedures previously learned. These skills are frequently used in veterinary clinics and will be utilized during your second year clinical rotations and senior practicum.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 295
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

VETR 295

Small Animal Medicine

You will learn how to handle, restrain and perform specified procedures on small companion animals. Safety requirements involved in dealing with small animals will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 279, ANIM 182, NUTR 200, PATH 201, PATH 202, PHAR 203, PRST 280, VETR 189, VETR 292, VETR 293
Corequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

Year 2 - Semester 6

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANES 282

Veterinary Anesthesia 3

You will develop anesthetic protocols for small and large animal species undergoing various surgical procedures. You will apply modifications of protocol based on patient condition and health status. You will be responsible for the care, preparation and post-surgical care of cases assigned to you.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 80.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Corequisites(s): CLIN 238, CLIN 239, VETR 289
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

CLIN 238

Large Animal Clinical

You will assist in receiving large animal out-patient cases, help manage and treat hospitalized cases, and prepare patients for hospital discharge.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 80.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Corequisites(s): ANES 282, CLIN 239, VETR 289
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

CLIN 239

Small Animal Clinical

You will assist in receiving small animal out-patient cases, help manage and treat hospitalized cases, and prepare patients for hospital discharge.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 80.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Corequisites(s): ANES 282, CLIN 238, VETR 289
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum

VETR 289

Clinical Surgical Nursing

You will work in large and small animal operating rooms according to “human hospital standards”. You will perform standard dental prophylaxis on a small animal patient.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 40.0
Prerequisites(s): ANES 281, PHAR 281, PRAC 284, RDGR 282, VETR 282, VETR 294, VETR 295
Corequisites(s): ANES 282, CLIN 238, CLIN 239
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

Year 2; Semesters 5 and 6 - Most of these courses will be taken at the University of Saskatchewan's Western College of Veterinary Medicine.
You must successfully complete all courses in Semesters 1 through 4 before enrolling in Semester 5. Semesters 4, 5, and 6 courses cannot be taken on a partial load basis.

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

More about PLAR

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

Admission eligibility to a two-year post-diploma Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Studies at the University of Lethbridge. Contact the Dean's office, Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Lethbridge at 403-380-1813.
Transfer credits are offered for courses taken as part of the Animal Biosciences degree, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan. Contact Program Head, Veterinary Technology program.
Transfer credit eligibility towards the Animal Bioscience degree at the University of Saskatchewan. Contact the Dean’s office, College of Agriculture and Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.

Accreditation

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association

Our Veterinary Technology program is accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association. This qualifies you to write the North American Veterinary Technology Exam (VTNE). You need to pass the VTNE and register with the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT) to work as a Registered Veterinary Technologist in Saskatchewan.

Additional Information

Application Form

Part-Time Delivery

Some courses in this program might also be offered through part-time programming.

View the program page for a complete list of courses and additional information.

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School of Health Sciences