Common Questions
How much are student expenses at Madison Area Technical College?
These rates vary from year to year as they are based on the current school year costs. For the 2005-2006 school year, these expenses are approximately $100 per credit. Out-of-state students pay a tuition fee of approximately $685 per credit. These fees are set by the legislature and change yearly. Student activities and parking fees are also charged. All individuals must pay the regular course and program fees before starting classes or arrange for a fee arrangement through the Financial Aids Office. A higher semester credit charge is made for all college core transfer courses a student may choose to take. To get more information on fees please check the Tuition and Fees area of the MATC main web site.
Can I be accepted for the veterinary technician program if I don't live in Wisconsin?
Although the program has been designed with Wisconsin residents in mind, out-of-state students may be admitted if space permits. Out-of-state applications are not reviewed until a certain amount of time has elapsed for acceptance of in-state applicants.
What high school courses are helpful for veterinary technician training?
College preparatory classes in algebra, biology and chemistry with average or better grades are required. Applicants without algebra, biology orchemistry must take these courses prior to being accepted into the program. Other desirable courses include first aid, speech, bookkeeping, physics, office practices, typing, computers, and vocational agriculture. No one would be expected to have all of these. Students are considered for the Veterinary Technician program on the merits of their total high school and/or college transcripts, ACT or other comparable test scores, and relevant work experience.
Is animal experience necessary?
Previous work experience with animals can be very beneficial. Experience on a farm, working with a veterinarian, or other animal jobs will be helpful in attaining the skills and knowledge necessary for this career. Before a student is accepted, a survey of animal aptitudes is conducted. It takes more than an "animal lover" to be a good technician.
Who teaches the veterinary technician classes?
All courses that are directly related to the Veterinary Technician program are taught by licensed veterinarians and by certified veterinary technicians who have worked in veterinary practices with both large and small animals. Other courses in science, mathematics, communication skills, etc., are taught by the general education and business faculty. Outside of the college, internships provide additional clinical experience.
Are there any other schools offering veterinary technician training?
MATC is the only post-secondary institution in Wisconsin offering veterinary technician training. There are some out-of-state programs but we do not generally have information about them or make recommendations for out-of-state schools. If you select another school, be sure it is accredited by the A.V.M.A.
When are veterinary technician courses generally scheduled?
Classes at MATC are conducted from 7:30 a.m. to 9:20 p.m., Monday through Friday. However, classes for this program have been grouped as much as possible to meet between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Several "free periods" during the week allow students time for lunch, study, and recreation.
What are the admission requirements?
Admission requirements include the following:
- High school graduation or equivalency
- Receipt of high school and any post-secondary transcripts and
- One year each of high school algebra, biology, and chemistry with a grade of "C" or better.
The ACT test or equivalent is required before review of your application. Applicants will take the ASSET test, if the ACT or equivalent has not been taken. Required high school courses are: algebra (basic course plus at least one semester introductory college level advanced mathematics course), biology (2 semesters with laboratory), chemistry (2 semesters minimum with laboratory), and reading level preferably at or near the 12th grade level.
Other courses helpful to program success include accounting, agriscience, mathematics, keyboarding, computer courses, speech, physics, bookkeeping, and accounting.
Admission preference is given to applicants who have occupational experience in a veterinary practice.
A personal interview with the Division Dean or Program Director is required if you request a waiver of these prerequisites.
How can I apply for the Veterinary Technician Program?
Application forms are available from any Wisconsin Technical College or from high school guidance counselors. Applications for second semester admission are accepted, although students are often placed on the waiting list for the following fall.
It is very important to take your American College Tests (ACT), COMPASS test, or ASSET test as early as possible so your scores are available when you apply.
All materials must be submitted with the application and a non-refundable $35 application fee.
Your best chance for acceptance comes by having all of your application materials at MATC on or before the third Monday in November; late applicants may find the program filled. When the Veterinary Technician program fills, a waiting list is maintained which carries over to the following school year.
Can I transfer credits from other institutions of higher learning?
What about other training or experience to receive credit?
A student may transfer courses from another college or be given credit for non-classroom work up to one-half of the credits required for the Veterinary Technician degree. The remaining credits must be taken at this institution.
Can I take Veterinary Technician training by correspondence or on a part-time basis?
"Hands-on" technical skills cannot be taught by correspondence. Part-time students may be admitted on a course-by-course basis providing spaces are available.
Are uniforms required for the Veterinary Technician training program?
Smocks are purchase by the students early in the first semester and are of a style and type prescribed by the college. Students are also required to wear coveralls, surgical scrubs, and have boots in later courses.
What about the internship - when will it be held?
Summer internship "work experience" is a required four-credit course that follows first year, second semester class work, and is conducted during a period of eight or more weeks.
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