The Veterinary Technology Associate of Applied Science degree at Northeast is a great way to turn a passion for animals into a meaningful career. Designed to prepare entry-level veterinary technicians, the program combines classroom learning, hands-on lab work, and real-world clinical experience. Students gain essential skills to care for companion animals, large animals, birds, and exotics. Graduates are well-prepared to meet state licensing requirements and fulfill the growing demand for qualified veterinary technicians. This program works toward meeting the needs of the State of Nebraska for well qualified veterinary technicians to perform duties under the scope of the Veterinary Medicine Practice Act. Career opportunities include roles in veterinary clinics, emergency hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, shelters, the USDA, and research facilities.
Why Students Choose This Program
Northeast’s Veterinary Technology program offers a state-of-the-art learning environment designed for hands-on, safe interaction with animals. Housed in a modern facility, the program features cutting-edge equipment and technology used in today’s veterinary field—including CT scanning, digital radiography, rehabilitation tools, emergency medicine, anesthesia systems, an underwater treadmill and even a simulator designed to look like a canine and mimic medical scenarios. Students train in real-world conditions that prepare them for success in veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and beyond.
Northeast offers one of only two accredited Veterinary Technology programs in Nebraska. The program is fully approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). With a strong focus on licensure readiness, the program prepares graduates to successfully meet state certification requirements. Students learn from an outstanding team of faculty who bring diverse, real-world experience to the classroom—providing students with expert guidance and support every step of the way.
Once students have graduated and passed the VTNE, they can enroll in the veterinary technician baccalaureate program at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln. This would allow them to pursue courses that would complete the prerequisites for applying to veterinary college or a master’s degree.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Students work directly with companion animals, large animals, birds, and exotics in real-life scenarios that build confidence and skill. The program is based in a 38,000+ square foot, state-of-the-art facility that includes modern labs, treatment rooms, a surgical suite, radiology, kennels, and indoor and outdoor exercise areas—all designed to simulate a professional veterinary setting.
Students also learn in a dedicated large animal handling facility, featuring over 21,000 square feet of space, including a bud box, stanchions, horse stalls, and a mezzanine for safe animal observation. Here, learning goes beyond theory. Whether it’s giving an injection, applying a bandage, or restraining an animal, students gain firsthand experience—making mistakes, adjusting techniques, and growing more capable with every repetition. This program gives students the chance to truly do the work before entering the field.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Anesthesia
- Veterinary Surgical Nursing & Dentistry
- Clinical Nursing of Large Animals
Program Details
75-81 credit hours
The program may be completed in either two or three years. Classes are sequenced.
Courses are offered in-person.
Enrollment in this program is limited and based on the date of completed requirements for acceptance into this program. Complete your application for admission.
For additional application information, please download the Veterinary Technology Program Application Packet.
Students that are accepted into the veterinary technology program must demonstrate that they are academically and physically able to complete the assigned tasks within the program. Learn more.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Student will also obtain their BLS and ALS certification in animal CPR from the Recover Institute
The program is accredited by the Council of Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Three-year VTNE Pass Rate
Total January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2024
Number of first-time candidates that have taken the VTNE: 53
Three-year VTNE pass percentage: 51%
Jennifer Jacobsen LVT, Nebraska Veterinary Services
Ms. Katie Hostler LVT, Parks Veterinary
Dr. Jeff Claborn, Twin Rivers Veterinary Clinic
Ms Sharon Schnepf, MWI Animal Health
Phil Wurdinger, Hanson Hog West
Brittany Swanson LVT, Veterinary Emergency Services
Erin Clocker, Madison County Veterinary Clinic
