The Veterinary Technician Associate Degree program will prepare learners with the skills necessary to provide medical and nursing care for a variety of animal species including dogs, cats, cattle, birds, pigs, small mammals, horses, and reptiles. Classroom instruction is combined with hands-on learning opportunities to expose learners to the essential functions and skills they will need to be successful in this career. Learners will have the opportunity to work closely with the NTC dairy farm operation and take several classes concentrating on dairy medicine and will also complete an internship in a veterinary practice to apply their learning in real world situations. Jobs in this field are generally physical and require the strength to lift and carry 50 pounds. Learners interested in this career should have a strong background in biological sciences. Additionally, learners looking to be successful in this occupation should have the aptitude to work with animals, possess good oral and written communication skills, and have excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.