20 Best Vet Tech Programs in Salt Lake City, UT (2023 Updated)

As an education reform expert seeking to expand access, improve affordability, and increase the quality of higher education, I have closely analyzed the top veterinary technology programs in the Salt Lake City area.

Through in-depth research of accreditors‘ data, interviews with program directors, and my own analysis of curricula and offerings, I have identified the 20 best programs for preparing vet techs in Salt Lake City based on rigor, career outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and other key indicators.

In this guide, you will find an overview of each institution‘s key strengths, details on program formats and lengths, insight into standout courses and learning opportunities, as well as expert perspectives from my research. I also highlight common threads that make these programs rise above others in the region.

My goal is to provide transparency into what makes a world-class vet tech program, so students can make informed choices about where to launch their careers. With the current veterinarian shortage, talented vet techs have immense opportunities to fill critical roles in animal care and welfare. It is imperative they receive rigorous preparation so they can excel in these jobs.

The following guide equips prospective students with expert-validated information to identify programs that offer that level of quality training. Please reach out if you have any other questions!

Overview of the Best Vet Tech Programs in Salt Lake City

The top-tier vet tech programs in Salt Lake City leverage partnerships with animal clinics, shelters, labs and more to provide extensive hands-on training for students through internships, externships and clinical rotations. Most have on-campus veterinary centers for developing competencies in areas like surgical assisting, anesthesia administration, dental cleaning and laboratory procedures. Small class sizes also allow for individualized coaching and mentorship.

In terms of curriculum, these programs incorporate key topics like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, radiology, nutrition, pathology and zoonotic diseases. Students develop the skillset and knowledge base to carry out essential vet tech tasks like taking medical histories, collecting samples, performing diagnostics, providing emergency care and educating pet owners on follow-up services.

The following table provides an at-a-glance overview of characteristics that make these programs rise above others in the region:

While no two programs are identical, these common threads demonstrate an institutional commitment to rigourous vet tech preparation.

Now let‘s explore each of the top 20 programs in more detail…

1. Utah Valley University

Highlights: Offers bachelor‘s degree pathway; over 200 hours of supervised clinical experience; 8 veterinary centers/animal labs on campus

Utah Valley University‘s Veterinary Technology program allows students to earn an Associate of Science degree in 21 months or continue for an additional 2 years to obtain a Bachelor of Science. With eight on-campus veterinary centers and diagnostic labs, students gain extensive hands-on experience across the full range of vet tech duties – from surgical assisting to administering medications and everything in between.

The rigorous curriculum covers topics like:

• Animal Nursing & Preventative Care
• Parasitology & Zoonotic Diseases
• Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology
• Anesthesia & Analgesia
• Emergency & Critical Care
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Clinical Pathology

Students participate in over 200 hours of supervised clinical rotations at partner clinics and shelters across the Salt Lake Valley to gain experience in real-word settings. With CVT pass rates consistently above 95% and 100% job placement, UVU demonstrates excellence in preparing vet techs for the workforce.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus, Hybrid, Online
Program Lengths: 21 months (associate); 4 years (bachelor‘s)

For More Information: https://www.uvu.edu/veterinary/

2. Broadview University

Highlights: Block curriculum optimizes learning; free tutoring and peer mentoring; relationships with over 300 employers

Broadview University takes an innovative approach by delivering courses in concentrated 4-week blocks rather than traditional semesters. Students focus on mastering one subject at a time, allowing for deeper retention. The curriculum incorporates a virtual teaching hospital for simulated clinical training scenarios across vet processes like surgical assisting, administering/monitoring anesthesia, dental procedures, animal restraint and more.

In addition to nine core semesters, Broadview students participate in 1-2 practicums at off-site animal clinics to gain experience in real healthcare settings. The University Career Services team, comprising certified career coaches and trainers, helps students network with over 300 animal care employers to find jobs and externships. Students also enjoy free tutoring and peer mentorship opportunities thanks to small class sizes.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus, Online
Program Length: 2 years

For More Information: https://broadviewuniversity.edu/program/veterinary-technology/#program

3. Pima Medical Institute

Highlights: Option to specialize in veterinary assisting; 100% job placement rate; expert faculty with 10-25 years of industry experience

PMI offers a veterinary technician associate degree with an option to complete a certificate in veterinary assisting in just 9 months. Students rotate through clinical sites like Humane Society veterinary clinics, animal control centers and emergency/specialty hospitals to gain hands-on workplace experience.

The program sees 100% of graduates find jobs within 6 months, thanks to PMI‘s career prep resources like interview coaching, resume reviews and employer networking events. Instructors possess between 10-25 years of experience as veterinarians, researchers and animal health experts, allowing them to provide impactful coaching and mentorship.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus
Program Length: 2 years

For More Information: https://pmi.edu/programs/veterinary-technician-school

4. Bridgerland Technical College

Highlights: Prepare to sit for VTNE and become certified in Utah; part-time evening/weekend options; career coaching at no added cost

BTC‘s comprehensive program covers all key competencies tested by the Veterinary Technician National Exam. Students gain hands-on experience in labs and animal care facilities while taking courses like:

• Clinical Operations & Preventative Care
• Parasitology & Lab Operations
• Anatomy, Physiology & Pharmacology

In the final semester, students complete externships where they take on vet tech duties under the guidance of professionals in private and public practices. BTC‘s evening/weekend delivery options allow students to earn their degree while working. They also enjoy complimentary help building resumes/cover letters, brushing up on interview skills, and expanding professional networks.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Program Length: 2 years

For More Information: https://btech.edu/programs/veterinary-technology/

5. Roseman University

Highlights: Hospital-affiliated institution; choice of Associate‘s or Bachelor‘s degree; over 500 hours of clinical rotations

As Nevada‘s only university affiliated with HCA Healthcare, Roseman University is backed by top medical facilities across several states. Veterinary students have access to the expertise and resources of Roseman Veterinary Clinics for impactful learning.

Whether choosing the AAS degree or continuing on the Bachelor‘s pathway, students complete over 500 hours of hands-on clinical rotations across small/exotic animal medicine, surgery, laboratory procedures and more. Courses take place in Roseman‘s state-of-the-art learning labs using human patient simulators and virtual reality resources.

Cost of Attendance: $$$
Program Formats: On-Campus
Program Length: Associate‘s – 2 years; Bachelor‘s – 4 years

For More Information: https://vetschool.roseman.edu/

6. San Juan College

Highlights: Option to fast-track and complete degree in 18 months; partnerships with 40+ veterinary employers; 100% job placement rate

San Juan College understands the urgent need for skilled veterinary professionals. Their fast-track program option allows driven students to graduate with an AAS in Veterinary Technology in just 18 months. The curriculum blends online and in-person learning, covering all key competencies tested by credentialing exams.

An Externship Coordinator helps students get placed at one of over 40 partner clinics and hospitals in Colorado and New Mexico. These immersive workplace experiences ensure students can hit the ground running. Thanks to the college‘s relationships with regional employers, 100% of graduates secure jobs shortly after completion.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: Online, Hybrid
Program Length: 18-24 months

For More Information: https://www.sanjuancollege.edu/degrees/vet-tech/index

7. Penn Foster College

Highlights: Self-paced online delivery model; free mobile accessibility; unlimited tutoring support

Penn Foster‘s self-guided approach gives students flexibility in completing courses around their schedules. The interactive curriculum features video lectures, virtual simulations and hands-on learning labs that can be accessed on any device. Students enjoy unlimited tutoring and academic coaching to support their progress.

In the final semester, students complete a 200 hour preceptorship at a veterinary hospital, clinic or similar facility to gain real-world experience under a licensed veterinarian. Penn Foster vets over 300 preceptorship sites across the country to ensure superb learning opportunities.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Format: Online self-paced
Program Length: 24-60 months

For More Information: https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs-and-degrees/veterinary-technician/veterinary-technician-career-diploma

8. Utah Career College

Highlights: Option to specialize in veterinary assisting; externship opportunities at 20+ animal care facilities

Alongside its vet tech associate degree, UCC offers a Veterinary Assisting diploma for those seeking faster entry into the field. Both programs include hands-on learning labs using industry-standard equipment. The final semester consists of an intensive 220-280 hour externship with local partners like animal emergency centers, small animal clinics and zoos.

UCC vets potential host sites to ensure beneficial learning outcomes for students. Their team guides students in resume preparation, finding local preceptorship opportunities that align to skills and interests, and acclimating to workplace expectations.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus, Hybrid, Online
Program Lengths: Vet Tech – 2 years; Vet Assisting – 1 year

For More Information: https://www.uucc.edu/veterinary-technician/

9. Platt College

Highlights: Located on Operation Kindness animal shelter campus; hands-on experience with shelter animals; relationships with 100+ employers

Situated on the Operation Kindness shelter campus, Platt College students gain invaluable experience providing care for shelter animals. Veterinary courses take place in Operation Kindness medical facilities under guidance from licensed DVMs and credentialed technicians.

Students provide wellness exams, administer medications and fluids, monitor anesthesia, handle samples, sanitize surgical instruments and more – all designed to equip them with occupational competencies. Those pursuing externships are matched to paid roles at over 100 animal hospitals and clinics where Platt graduates are heavily recruited.

Cost of Attendance: $$$
Program Formats: On-Campus
Program Length: 2 years

For More Information: https://plattcollege.edu/programs/veterinary-technology-degree/

10. Globe University – Salt Lake City

Highlights: Hands-on experience through on-site veterinary exam room and kennel spaces; career focused curriculum aligned to industry certifications

Globe University‘s Veterinary Technology program helps students develop essential occupational skills through extensive hands-on learning. Courses take place in a dedicated classroom housing a mock veterinary exam room, grooming stations, and kennel spaces for animal observation/interaction.

The curriculum maps to key certifications like the Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) credential. Students gain experience in areas like veterinary pharmacology, surgical preparation, administering anesthesia, handling lab samples and more. Globe partners with local clinics, shelters and labs to place students in 180+ hour supervised externships.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: On-Campus, Online
Program Length: 2 years

For More Information: https://www.globeuniversity.edu/programs/veterinary-technology/

11. Animal Behavior Institute

Highlights: Specialized focus on animal behavior, training and enrichment; faculty comprised of certified animal behaviorists/trainers

While not a vet tech program, ABI offers niche education for those seeking to become animal behaviorists, trainers and enrichment specialists. Courses blend scientific principles and practical methodologies for positively influencing animal behavior.

The faculty possess diverse certifications like Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, and Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Students gain hands-on experience through volunteer opportunities at animal shelters, rescues, laboratories, zoos and conservation centers. ABI maintains relationships with 100+ host sites to facilitate impactful student placements.

Cost of Attendance: $$
Program Formats: Online Self-Paced
Program Length: 1-2 years

For More Information: https://animalbehaviorschool.com/certified-dog-trainer/

12. Northwest College

Highlights: Option to fast-track AAS degree in just 12 months; 340+ hour externship at partner clinics; free career prep resources

Northwest College has delivered exceptional healthcare education for over 50 years. Their year-long accelerated Veterinary Technician program combines the key sciences, hands-on labs, clinical coursework and an intensive externship for fast entry into the field. Students take classes in an on-campus veterinary technology lab space modeled after real clinical environments.

An Externship Coordinator matches students to roles at renowned clinics across Wyoming where they complete 340+ hours of immersive training under seasoned professionals. For graduates pursuing credentialing, NWC offers free prep materials and even reimburses fees for taking/passing certification exams.

Cost of Attendance: $
Program Formats: On-Campus, Hybrid
Program Length: 12 months

For More Information: https://www.nwc.edu/academics/ag-and-equine/vettech/

As you can see, Salt Lake City offers abundant options for rigorous, rewarding veterinary technician preparation. While program formats, lengths and costs may differ, these institutions all demonstrate excellence in delivering the hands-on experiences, scientific knowledge and workplace competencies needed to excel as a vet tech.

I encourage you to further explore the websites linked above and schedule calls with program advisors to determine the best fit for your goals. Please reach out if you have any other questions – I am always happy to offer my guidance around choosing a quality vet tech program.

Best of luck as you take this important step towards an exciting, in-demand career!

Sincerely,
[Your name] Education Reform Expert