Veterinary technicians work in settings as diverse as large, mixed and small animal veterinary practices, research laboratories, zoos, aquariums, wildlife centers and veterinary supply companies. Students planning to become veterinarians must first complete a bachelor's degree with strong science coursework. The Pre-veterinary Medicine Program at the University of Washington meets the admission requirements for admittance to the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Pullman.
For an animal healthcare career with less schooling required, consider the 30-week Veterinary Assistant Program at Pima Medical Institute in Seattle. If you want more medical responsibility, including duties in anesthesiology, radiology and surgical assisting, then look into the Veterinary Technology Program at Pierce College in nearby Lakewood. Other local institutions offering pre-professional health sciences degrees include Seattle Pacific University and Seattle University.
Long-term employment projections from the Washington State Employment Security Department show strong growth for veterinary occupations in the Seattle area from 2002 to 2012. Job growth for veterinarians is projected at 31.1%, veterinary technicians and technologists 27.2%, and veterinary assistants and laboratory animal caretakers can expect to see an increase of 25.9% over this time period.
Veterinary Schools, Programs & Courses
in Seattle
Subjects listed are highlights of programs
and/or courses offered.
Between the annual Evergreen Cat Fanciers shows and the annual Seattle Kennel Club All-Breed Agility and Obedience Dog Show, pet owners in Seattle keep busy. Horse owners and admirers are drawn to the Emerald Downs racetrack. More than 200 North American animals roam free within the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park while the Woodland Park Zoo houses animals from all over the world. Research programs at the inspiring Seattle Aquarium focus on marine life including otters and sharks. All of this adds up to an abudance of opportunities for veterinary and animal health students and professionals in Seattle.
Other Resources for Veterinary Education and Careers in Seattle