Cincinnati is home to some of the best veterinary tech programs in the country. With a range of options from associate‘s degrees to certificate programs, aspiring vet techs can find the right fit to launch their careers caring for animals.
In this guide, we will explore the top 20 vet tech programs available in the Cincinnati area based on quality of education, affordability, reputation and graduate outcomes.
1. University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati offers a bachelor‘s degree in veterinary technology, equipping students with advanced skills in anatomy, physiology, nursing care and lab procedures. With a challenging curriculum and clinical training opportunities, graduates are prepared for certification and careers in specialty vet hospitals, labs, zoos and more.
Key Features:
- Bachelor‘s degree (4 years)
- Hands-on clinical experience
- State-of-the-art teaching hospital
- Respected instructors
2. Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
Cincinnati State provides an associate‘s degree in veterinary technology over 5 semesters. Students gain a comprehensive foundation in animal nursing, dentistry, anesthesia, lab work and medical terminology. Graduates have a 90% exam pass rate and strong job placement.
Key Features:
- Associate‘s degree (2 years)
- High first-time exam pass rate
- Small classes sizes
- Career preparation services
3. Butler Tech D. Russel Lee Campus
Butler Tech‘s vet assistant certificate program combines classroom study with 100 hours of hands-on clinical training. Students develop skills in restraint, lab procedures, nursing care, kennel operations and front desk duties. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in vet clinics, shelters and more.
Key Features:
- 1-year certificate
- Extensive real-world experience
- Job placement assistance
- Affordable tuition
4. Animal Behavior College
Animal Behavior College offers a flexible 9-month veterinary assistant certificate program combining online coursework with externships. Students gain skills ranging from patient exams and lab work to medication administration and critical care. The program has decades of experience preparing vet assistants for rewarding careers.
Key Features:
- Convenient online/hands-on format
- Assistance securing externships
- Job search preparation
- 80K+ alumni network
5. Great Oaks Veterinary Assisting Certificate
The 1-year veterinary assisting certificate program from Great Oaks provides fundamental training in exam room procedures, surgical assisting, pharmacy basics and front office skills. Small classes allow for individualized instruction to prepare students for national certification and employment in the field.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive technical training
- Small class sizes
- Industry-current curriculum
- Pathway to further education
6. Animal Care Technologies Veterinary Assistant Program
Animal Care Tech provides an in-depth 9-month program covering veterinary medical terminology, pathology/parasitology, surgical assisting, radiology and clinical procedures. Students gain experience through field trips, guest speakers and a clinical externship. Graduates are eligible for the Approved Veterinary Assistant credential.
Key Features:
- Credentialed instructors
- Hands-on learning approach
- Externship program
- Job placement assistance
7. Penn Foster
Penn Foster offers an online veterinary assistant career diploma program combining coursework with clinical training for hands-on skill development. Key topics include anatomy/physiology, animal handling/restraint, surgical prep and assisting, pharmacy practices and office procedures. Students can complete the program on a flexible schedule in under a year.
Key Features:
- Self-paced online format
- Clinical externships
- Career support
- Under 1 year to complete
8. Animal Behavior Institute
This flexible online program prepares students to become veterinary assistants through a unique approach combining academic study, projects and externships. Key topics include medical procedures, surgical assisting, imaging, pharmacy practices and front office training. Graduates can pursue certification and employment in clinics, shelters and labs.
Key Features:
- Convenient online delivery
- Customizable externships
- Innovative learning model
- Supportive student community
9. VetMedTeam
VetMedTeam provides an in-depth 20-course online veterinary assistant certificate program preparing students for national certification and entry-level careers. Through engaging online lessons and practical assignments, key skills are developed in areas ranging from clinical procedures to anesthesia administration and surgical assisting.
Key Features:
- Self-paced online format
- One-on-one instructor support
-Detailed HD video lessons - Certification exam voucher
10. Veterinary Allied Staff Institute
This respected online program offers certified training to become a veterinary assistant through a combination of lessons, labs, quizzes and hands-on clinical externships. Key topics include medical terminology, exam/lab procedures, animal nursing, anesthesia/surgery assistance, imaging basics and office skills for rewarding vet assistant careers.
Key Features:
- Online delivery with externships
- Respected certification prep
- Customizable pace
- Job search assistance
By leveraging Cincinnati‘s wealth of educational institutions both within the university system and technical colleges, students can find high quality, affordable pathways to launch veterinary careers, specializing in areas from surgery to critical care and lab animal medicine. With a mix of classroom theory and clinical experience, graduates enter the job market well prepared to provide compassionate, skilled care for animals.