Credit transfer opportunity: Thompson-Rivers University
Due to high demand, this funded program is open to Manitoba residents only. Applications received from non-Manitoba residents for this program will be cancelled and the application fee will not be refunded.
Description This program provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to perform a variety of veterinary medical procedures, such as:
Anesthesia induction and monitoring
Drug dosage calculations
Surgical and animal nursing
Laboratory testing
Diagnostic imaging
Dentistry
Emergency care
Routine veterinary clinic and office procedures
Veterinary Technologists play a vital role in the veterinary industry. They work under the supervision of veterinary practitioners to support the veterinarian in all aspects of practice.
As part of this program, you will participate in on- or off-campus labs where you will be handling animals species such as horses, cattle, swine, chickens, ferrets, rats, mice, as well as dogs and cats.
Admission Requirements
Your Academic History
If your academic history includes any of the following, please visit My Education for important information: post-secondary studies at an institution other than Red River College Polytechnic; Modified (M), English as an Additional Language (E), or GED high school courses; or home schooling; international secondary (high school) studies.
The college requires transcripts verifying your complete academic history including any public or private high school, college, university, or technical institute you have attended.
Please check the Program Overview page, to see if this program is for Manitoba residents only.
DOCUMENT SUBMISSION
Upload Through Your Future Student Account
Scan your document(s) and save the file. Ensure you keep your original documents as the College may request to see them at any time.
Click on your application, then Supplemental Items & Documents.
If you do not have a Future Student Account or require assistance, please contact our Student Service Centre at 204-632-2327.
Internationally Educated Applicants - visit www.rrc.ca/credentials for credential assessment information.
Submission of required documentation indicating proof of completion of admission requirements is due within 15 days of applying unless otherwise noted in the program's admission requirements.
However, if you apply within 6 weeks of the program start date, admission requirements are due within 5 days of applying.
Regular Admission Requirements
Grade 12
Submit proof of graduation from or enrolment in Grade 12 including one credit in each of the following:
Grade 12 English (40S)
Grade 12 Applied Math or Pre-Calculus Math (40S) (Grade 12 Essential Math or Consumer Math do not meet the requirements for this program)
Grade 12 Chemistry (40S)
Grade 11 Biology (30S) (Manitoba Grade 11 Biology provides knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the systems in the human body. This knowledge is required for admission to the VT program. Grade 12 Biology has different content therefore it cannot be accepted in lieu of Grade 11 Biology)
If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information. and
English Language Requirements (ELRs)
Answer this question to determine if you meet this program’s ELRs: Have I successfully completed 3 years of full-time high school (secondary) education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country where English was the language of instruction?
If YES, you meet English language requirements. Apply and then submit your transcripts* for review or
If you completed all of your education in Canada, the United States, or an ELR exempt country in English but you did not graduate high school, submit your transcripts* for review.
Submit Volunteer/Work Experience Form(s) as proof of completion of 80 hours of occupational familiarization to veterinary medicine and veterinary technology. This must include a minimum of 8 hours working with large animals such as horses, cattle, and/or swine. This form was updated in January 2025. Please ensure you are completing and submitting the most up to date form for your application.
Hours must be completed at a veterinary clinic or offsite location (i.e. a dairy barn), working alongside a veterinarian or veterinary technologist.
Hours must have been completed within the past 12 months.
The College does not arrange volunteer or work experience placements with veterinary clinics, or recommend specific clinics. We recommend you contact veterinary clinics directly to enquire about possible volunteer or employment opportunities to assist you in completing the required 80 hours of experience. and
Mandatory Diagnostic Test
Complete a mandatory diagnostic test to advise you of your program readiness
The test will include writing, math, science, and occupational elements
Faculty advising may be required based on the diagnostic test results and upgrading may be recommended
This item is not due within 15 days of applying and will be requested by the College at a later date and
Mandatory Orientation Session
Attend a mandatory orientation session conducted by program faculty
This session will provide a program overview with an emphasis on the requirements of a career in Veterinary Technology
This item is not due within 15 days of applying and will be requested by the College at a later date
Mature Student Admission Requirements If you are 19 years of age or older and have been out of high school for a minimum of one year at time of application, and you do not meet the regular admission requirements, you may apply under the Mature Student admission requirements.
Academic Requirement
High school graduation is not required, but you must have successfully completed or be enrolled in one credit in each of the following:
Grade 12 English (40S)
Grade 12 Applied Math or Pre-Calculus Math (40S) (Grade 12 Essential Math or Consumer Math do not meet the requirements for this program)
Grade 12 Chemistry (40S)
Grade 11 Biology (30S) (Manitoba Grade 11 Biology provides knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the systems in the human body. This knowledge is required for admission to the VT program. Grade 12 Biology has different content therefore it cannot be accepted in lieu of Grade 11 Biology)
If you provide proof of enrolment at time of application, your official final grades indicating successful completion must be submitted by July 15 for fall enrolment or by the deadline specified in your admission letter
If you are required to complete an English language assessment, do not submit your transcripts until requested to do so. See English Language Requirements (ELRs) for more information. and
Meet Regular Admission Requirements 2 through 5
Program Progression Requirements Program progression requirements are not due within 15 days of applying. These requirements have expiration dates and should be completed close to your program start date. Further information will be provided by the College at a later date.
Immunizations and Testing
All students enrolled in the program are required to be immunized against Rabies and Tetanus.
The College reserves the right to modify this information without notice or prejudice.
ASSESSMENT RESULTS MUST BE DATED NO MORE THAN TWO YEARS PRIOR TO YOUR APPLICATION DATE!
Approved English Language Assessments
English Language Assessment
Minimum Scores for Certificates, Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas, and Post Graduate Certificates, Post-graduate Diplomas
Minimum Scores for Bachelor Degrees and Creative Communication (excluding Nursing)
Minimum Scores for Applicable Health Related Programs***
CAEL Online or In-Person
Overall band score of 60
Overall band score of 70 and Writing of 60
Overall band score of 70 and Writing of 60††
IELTS Academic Level
Overall 6.0 and No band below 5.5
Overall 6.5 and No band below 6.0
Overall 7.0 and No band below 6.5
Password Skills
Overall 6.0 and No band below 5.5
Overall 6.5 and No band below 6.0
Overall 7.0 and No band below 6.5††
LINC Certificate
7
8
Successful completion of Communication for Health Care Professions††
Duolingo Language Test†
115 and above+ with a min. of 95 in each section
125 and above with a min. of 100 in each section
N/A††
New English for Academic and Professional Purposes
Successful completion of the program 5 (min 70%)
Successful completion of the program 5 (min 70%)
N/A††
PTE
54 overall Min 50 in each skill
60 overall Min 55 in each skill band
N/A††
TOEFL-ibt Academic Level
80 (20L, 20S, 19R, 21W)
90 (22L, 22S, 22R, 24W)
98 (24L, 23S, 24R, 27W)
Academic English Program for University and College Entrance Program (AEPUCE)
Successful Completion
Successful Completion
N/A††
CELBAN
N/A
N/A
8, 8, 8, 7††
†The Duolingo Language Test will no longer be an approved English proficiency test for applications to the Bachelor of Nursing and Allied Health Programs
††These English Language Assessments will not be accepted by Medical Laboratory Sciences
***Applicable Health Related Programs:
Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography – Echocardiography
Diagnostic Medical Sonography – Ultrasound
Health Information Management
Medical Device Reprocessing Technician
Medical Laboratory Sciences Only accepts the following English language proficiency tests:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
TOEFL iBT
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
IELTS – AC
Canadian Test of English for Scholars and Trainees (CanTEST)
Medical Radiologic Technology
MRI and Spectroscopy
Nurse Prescriber Reproductive Health/STBBI
Nurse Prescriber Travel Health
Nurse Re-Entry
Nursing
Nursing – Licensed Practical Nurse to BN Pathway
Occupational Health and Safety
Paramedicine – Advanced Care
Paramedicine – Primary Care Paramedic
Who Should Enrol?
To excel as a Veterinary Technologist you must be comfortable around animals and have:
A genuine interest in all aspects of animal care
Strong skills in the sciences and mathematics
The ability to communicate well with people
This program is both academically and physically demanding. You should be in good health, without allergies to animals, and be physically capable of performing all the program requirements. You also require the academic background and proficiency to manage the large volume of science- and math-related program content.
All students enrolled in the program are required to be immunized against Rabies and Tetanus.
Success Factors This program is well-suited for students who:
Are well-organized, highly motivated, and possess strong time-management skills
Are proficient in mathematics and science
Are willing to spend significant hours on the home study required to successfully complete the program (Two to Three hours per night)
Pay close attention to detail
Are prepared to participate in a variety of clinics with the swine and bovine industries during the year
Have previous experience with animals and animal handling
Locations, Dates and Fees
Next Estimated Term 1 Start Date (subject to change)
1A computer is required for the program to access the online Learn platform and MS Teams. If you need to purchase one, approximate cost is $500-700.
Students may apply for financial assistance through the Manitoba Student Aid program.
For general information on applying please call 204-945-6321 or 1-800-204-1685,
or visit their website at www.manitobastudentaid.ca,
which also includes an online application. For detailed information, please visit
one of the RRC Polytech Student Service Centres
or call 204-632-2327. Applicants requiring financial assistance should complete their student loan
applications well in advance of the class start date.
Program Outline
This program gives you the hands-on training required for a career as a Veterinary Technologist. You will learn both theoretical components and participate in practical laboratory techniques. Practical training in all areas is reinforced through work experience.
This is a two-year program with two terms in each year:
The fall term for both first- and second-year students is late August to mid-December.
The winter term for first-year students is January to the end of May. For second-year students, it is January to mid-May.
First Year The first year of the VT program focuses on developing a sound knowledge of the basic sciences as a foundation for animal health care. This includes courses in the following:
Communications
Mathematics
Anatomy and physiology
Nursing Care
It also includes training in the following:
Animal science
Animal behaviour
Restraint
Medical nursing
Laboratory procedures for common domestic animals
First-year students will be expected to care for animals at the College on a rotational basis before classes start in the morning and immediately after the end of school day. You will also be expected to participate in large animal labs/clinics where routine forms of care are provided.
Second Year The second year of the program concentrates on advancing your veterinary medical skills with further exposure to common species such dogs, cats, horses and cows. The care of laboratory animals and avian and exotic species is also included.
Courses and Descriptions
(Click the course name to view the description of the course)
In addition to Transfer of Credit from a recognized post secondary institution,
other RPL processes are available for RPL courses.
Click here for more information.
For courses with no RPL, please check www.rrc.ca/rpl for additional contact information.
Students will discuss cell and tissue structure and function. The basic properties of various disease causing microorganisms are discussed. Students will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary and musculoskeletal systems.
Students will experience hands-on practical learning of the body systems discussed in the Body Systems 1 course through the use of live, preserved and fresh animal specimens. Basic microbiological diagnostic techniques are presented.
Students will develop the written and oral communication skills needed by an Animal Health Technologist to communicate effectively with supervisors, co-workers, and clients.
Students will restrain and provide care for veterinary patients within the legal boundaries of veterinary medicine while following appropriate safety protocols.
Students will learn basic handling and nursing techniques for the various domestic species discussed in the Animal Breeds, Behaviour and Nursing course.
Students will learn the fundamental biology of different groups of parasites and the general principles of their identification, control, collection, and processing.
Students will discuss the structure, function and metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins as it relates to body function and nutrition. Students will also discuss clinical chemistry in relation to body systems.
Students will discuss the genesis and function of the various blood cell types and become proficient in their recognition and evaluation. Serology, urinalysis and cytology will also be studied.
Students will learn the basics of x-ray equipment, radiation physics, image recording, radiation protection, and radiobiology to enable them to aid the veterinarian in diagnosis and treatment. In addition, students will discuss the theory of ultrasound imaging, and the techniques involved with assisting a veterinarian to perform diagnostic ultrasound on a patient.
Utilizing live and mock scenarios, students will perform a variety of tasks related to surgery and anesthetic protocols including preparation of surgical packs, surgical assistance, patient monitoring, IV fluid therapy, local analgesia, intubation and aseptic technique.
Students will learn basic husbandry, common nursing care procedures and diseases of rabbits, rodents, ferrets, birds and reptiles. Students will follow regulations and protocols involved in working with laboratory and exotic species.
Students perform canine and feline prophylactic dental cleaning. Students will also assist the veterinary dental surgeon in common and selected species.
Students will be introduced to basic calculations for veterinary procedures including conversions, drug units, solution preparation and single drug dosage calculations.
Students will perform a variety of clinical procedures including bandaging, patient identification, administering medication, and sanitation following WHMIS regulations.
This course is an extension of the Introduction to Canine and Feline Husbandry course. Students will continue to improve on the skills of canine and feline handling, behaviour recognition, husbandry, and safety as learned in Term 1.
Students will discuss the anatomy and physiology of the urinary, digestive, endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and the special senses.
Students will experience practical hands-on learning of the body systems discussed in the Body Systems 2 course through the use of live, preserved and fresh animal specimens.
Students will experience practical hands-on learning of nursing techniques for the various domestic species discussed in Term 1, in conjunction with the Veterinary Nursing Theory course.
Students will learn nursing techniques for the various domestic species discussed in Term 1 of the program. Emphasis will be on care of the body systems taught in the Body Systems 2 course.
Students will study the normal anatomy and physiology common domestic species including normal and abnormal reproductive behaviour and gestation events.
This course is a continuation of Veterinary Hematology 1, with an emphasis on identification of pathological cells. Vaginal, otic, and bone marrow cytology will also be studied.
Students will experience practical hands-on learning of pathological hematology cells and cytology cells. Vaginal, otic and bone marrow cytology analysis will also be performed.
Students will develop awareness of the properties, delivery methods and regulations pertaining to common pharmacological agents used in veterinary medicine diagnosis and treatment.
Students will discuss the normal role of nutrients in the body and the diseases that are caused by imbalances of these nutrients. Diets fed to normal animals at various life stages will also be addressed, with an emphasis on dogs and cats with and without disease problems.
Students will discuss various aspects of a veterinary practice including inventory control, crisis intervention, grief management, and personnel and client relations.
Students will be introduced to more advanced calculations for veterinary procedures including multiple drug dosage calculations, intravenous fluid rate calculations and patient sample dilution procedures.
Students will perform a variety of clinical and laboratory procedures including bathing, physical exams, venipuncture, administering vaccinations and sample handling.
This program integrates classroom theory with related on-the-job training by alternating academic study and practicums.
At the end of Year 1, you will spend three weeks (120 hours) in a veterinary clinic practicing the skills learned in the first year of the program. You will have a specified set of skills to complete during the practicum, and you will be supervised directly by clinic and College staff.
In Year 2, you will spend two weeks (80 hours) in a veterinary clinic during February assisting clinic staff with duties and becoming proficient in the skills taught in the program. Emphasis will be placed on proficiency in surgical nursing and anesthesiology skills during this practicum.
At the end of Year 2, the final three-week practicum (120 hours) is spent in a veterinary clinic where you will fine tune the skills necessary for a successful career in Veterinary Technology. This final practicum often results in a job placement after graduation.
Computer/Laptop Requirements
Online learning is a critical component of course delivery in all Red River College Polytechnic programs. To ensure each student has the tools they need to achieve their academic goals, all Red River College Polytechnic students require, at minimum:
1. Off-campus access to a current computer with a webcam
2. A high speed internet connection
• Recommended minimum speed: 10 mbps for download, 3 mbps for upload • Slower internet connection speeds may result in audio and video issues. Please keep in mind that if others in your home are using the same internet connection at the same time as you are, you may also experience audio and video issues. • Please refer to https://www.rrc.ca/future-students/computer-requirements/ for further information on Computer Requirements for Students.
Please note that any anticipated costs are not included in Books and Supplies estimates.
Transfer Credit Opportunities
Thompson Rivers University
Credits toward a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science
Recognition of Prior Learning
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which documents and compares an individual's prior learning gained from prior education, work and life experiences and personal study to the learning outcomes in College courses/programs. For more information, please visit www.rrc.ca/rpl.
Graduation Requirements
Successful completion of all courses within the program is required for Graduation.
Employment Potential
Graduates are qualified to work under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian in companion animal, large animal, and specialty practices.
Graduates may also find employment at the following:
Zoos
Research institutes
Livestock operations
Wildlife services
Animal shelters
Government agencies
Pharmaceutical sales companies
Veterinary Technologists perform a wide variety of tasks such as:
Assisting veterinarians in surgery
Inducing and maintaining a patient under anesthesia
Calculating drug doses and IV infusion rates
Providing nursing care to patients
Educating pet owners in various topics of animal health
Monitoring animal health on a daily basis
Performing laboratory procedures
Producing diagnostic radiographs
Managing a drug inventory
Maintaining professional, ethical and responsible behaviour
Performing various office duties
Academic Advising Service
Our academic advising service can provide information about our full-time programs, explain program admission requirements, and help you select the right program to meet your career and academic goals. We can also connect you with helpful people, resources, and supports.
You will need to refer to this code for registration purposes.
Online Registration is not available for this course. Please contact your local registration office or click link below for other registration options.
Please note: Students can only be added to the wait list for one section of a course.
You will be contacted by Red River College Polytechnic via email as soon as a spot becomes available.
Waitlist Request for Section #
Red River College Polytechnic endeavours to provide the most current version of all program and course information on this website. Please be advised that classes may be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The College reserves the right to modify or cancel any course, program, process, or procedure without notice or prejudice. Fees may change without notice.