To help you arm yourself with the information you need to decide, we’ve developed this ranking of the best veterinary schools in Indiana.
Aspiring veterinarians in Indiana are encouraged to seek programs accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Practice (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the primary accrediting body for veterinary programs nationwide.
Indiana has two CVTEA-accredited on-campus programs and the prestigious online program at Purdue. Please refer to the section below for more information on accreditation.
Table of Contents
Are there Veterinary Schools in Indiana?
While no schools in Indianapolis offer specific veterinary programs, several schools offer veterinary programs.
Associate degree programs in veterinary technology can be completed in two years, and coursework includes general education requirements and classes dedicated to veterinary technology.
Associate degree programs may be offered through distance learning. Bachelor of Veterinary Technology programs are also available, and this degree typically takes four years to complete.
After completing the 4-year doctoral program in veterinary medicine, you are eligible to obtain a veterinarian license. The American Veterinary Medical Association accredits all programs listed below.
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What are the Requirements for Veterinary Schools in Indiana?
There are two veterinary technician programs in Indiana for those looking for a career in animal health with a relatively fast educational track.
Typical requirements for these two- to four-year veterinary schools in Indiana include submitting official high school transcripts showing completion of certain coursework (eg, algebra, biology, chemistry, English).
It also includes submission of SAT, ACT or TOEFL exam results (only for non-native English speakers); passing the inspection; writing a personal statement; availability of proof of immunization and medical insurance; and payment of contribution.
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How to Become a Veterinarian in Indiana
To be eligible to work as a veterinary technician in Indiana, a person must register. Typical steps to becoming a registered veterinarian in Indiana include:
- Complete high school by studying biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
- Complete a veterinary technology program in one of the top veterinary schools in Indiana accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activity (CVTEA), the primary program approval agency for veterinarians of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
- Pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
- Apply for registration through the Indiana Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.
A background check is required to apply to the Indiana Board of States; sending official transcripts from the qualifying veterinary technical program; submission of official VTNE scores (or proof of five years of experience in the field); Passing a 30-question Indiana State Bar Exam with a score of at least 75 percent; provision of one passport photo; and pay a $30 registration fee.
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What are the Best Veterinary Schools in Indiana in 2024?
#1 Ancilla College of Marian University
Ancilla College of Marian University offers an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Nursing at its campus in Plymouth, Indiana. Courses include animal husbandry; veterinary pharmacology and phlebotomy; laboratory skills; radiology; surgical assistance; and more.
The program has a competitive admissions process that considers GPA, work experience (general and animal care), and evidence of motivation and leadership skills. Applicants also participate in an interview with program instructors.
Ancilla College of Marian University students is detail-oriented and empathetic, with solid communication, problem-solving skills, and manual dexterity.
Career paths for Marian University AS Ancilla College graduates in veterinary care include working in boarding facilities, laboratory medicine facilities, private veterinary clinics/hospitals, and other animal care settings.
#2 Purdue University
Purdue University West Lafayette is one of the best vet schools in Indiana that offers both on-campus and online veterinary technology programs at various levels.
The on-campus program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree, a Bachelor of Science degree, and a Bachelor of Science completion option for those with an Associate of Science degree.
Students also complete clinical rotations and practicum experiences with opportunities for international internships.
Purdue University’s 127.5-credit bachelor’s degree combines an AAS degree and bachelor’s degree options into a four-year curriculum that includes courses such as physiology; parasitology; clinical pathology; dentistry; and more.
Students also complete general education requirements, clinical rotations, and practicum experiences.
The Bachelor’s Completion Program has the same requirements of 127.5 credits, and students who have already earned an AS or AAS in Veterinary Technology are eligible to apply.
#3 International Business College-Indianapolis
The Indianapolis International College of Business offers an AAS in Veterinary Technology.
Courses include animal anatomy and physiology; veterinary pharmacology; theory of large animals; zootechnics; clinical medicine; radiography; surgical care; and more.
In addition, students take the VTNE preparation class for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE).
Students gain a wealth of hands-on experience in labs, mandatory kennel duties, and an eight-week externship. Students study in a simulated veterinary clinic.
Between 2018 and 2021, 61.1 percent of graduates passed the VTNE on the first attempt.
Best Online Veterinary Schools in Indiana
Purdue University – In addition to on-campus programs, Purdue University offers a distance learning program through which graduates can earn an AAS in Veterinary Technology.
The program consists of 35 classes, and you can complete the program at your own pace in three years. Students complete 18 clinical mentorships at approved veterinary healthcare facilities.
Online vet tech students report studying four to six credit hours per week in their courses.
Online courses include anatomy; physiology; pharmacy procedures; diagnostic imaging; animal husbandry; care of small animals; microbiology for veterinary technicians; management topics; and more.
Notably, 96.4 percent of distance program graduates from 2018 to 2021 passed the VTNE on the first attempt.
Conclusion
Aspiring veterinarians in Indiana are encouraged to seek programs accredited by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Practice (CVTEA) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the primary accrediting body for veterinary programs nationwide.
Indiana has two CVTEA-accredited on-campus programs and the prestigious online program at Purdue. Please refer to the section below for more information on accreditation.
It is important to note that most veterinarians in the US currently choose to pursue a degree.
Veterinary Schools in Indiana FAQs
What Can Veterinarians Work in Indiana?
Indiana veterinarians can find employment at many institutions, such as veterinary hospitals, private clinics, universities, government agencies, biomedical research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, zoos, farms, animal welfare organizations, and other institutions.
Do You Need License to Work as a Vet in Indiana?
You must obtain a license to practice as a veterinary technician (VET) in Indiana at an accredited veterinary school. Indiana veterinary schools must be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). You must also pass the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE). Once you have passed the VTNE, you can apply for registration with the Indiana Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners.
What is the Requirement by Law to be a Vet in Indiana?
Indiana law requires veterinarians to be of good moral character. Using illegal substances, being under alcohol or committing a crime will put your certificate at risk.
References
vettechcolleges.com – ACCREDITED VET TECH PROGRAMS IN INDIANA (IN)
