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aaliyeh
Student
Winter Park, Florida
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I’m interested in becoming a veterinarian but not sure what Associates Degree to choose ?
Hi i’m a senior in high school and i’m interested in becoming a veterinarian! I currently work at a private vet clinic so I get first experience what vet life would be like and I love it. I’m not sure if I should get my A.S (associates in science) or just my regular A.A?
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8 answers
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're interested in becoming a veterinarian and already gaining practical experience at a vet clinic. When it comes to choosing between an Associate of Science (A.S.) or an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree, here's some guidance to help you decide:
1. **Associate of Science (A.S.) in Veterinary Technology or Related Field:**
- This degree program is often more science-focused and may include coursework directly related to veterinary sciences, animal biology, and healthcare.
- An A.S. in Veterinary Technology can be particularly beneficial if you're considering becoming a veterinary technician as a stepping stone to becoming a veterinarian.
- You'll likely gain hands-on experience working with animals and learn practical skills that are directly applicable to veterinary practice.
2. **Associate of Arts (A.A.):**
- An A.A. degree is generally more broad in scope and often includes a wider range of liberal arts and general education courses.
- It provides a well-rounded education and can be a good choice if you want to explore other areas of interest alongside your veterinary aspirations.
- You can still take prerequisite science courses required for veterinary school as part of your A.A. curriculum.
Here's some advice to help you decide:
- **Career Goals:** If you're certain about your goal of becoming a veterinarian, an A.S. degree, especially in veterinary technology or a related field, can provide a more direct and specialized path.
- **Transferability:** Check if the college or university you plan to attend for your bachelor's degree (required for veterinary school) accepts both A.S. and A.A. degrees. Some schools may prefer one over the other for prerequisite coursework.
- **Long-Term Interests:** Consider your long-term interests and career goals. If you want a strong foundation in the sciences and are open to exploring different healthcare-related careers, an A.S. might be a better fit. If you value a broader educational background, the A.A. can provide that flexibility.
- **Speak with an Advisor:** Talk to academic advisors at the colleges you're interested in attending and inquire about their recommendations based on your specific career aspirations.
- **Transferring Credits:** If you choose the A.S. and decide to pursue a bachelor's degree in a different field, check if your science credits can be applied to other majors.
Ultimately, both paths can lead to a career in veterinary medicine, but the choice depends on your preferences and goals. Remember that, in the long run, your dedication, academic performance, and extracurricular experiences will play a significant role in your success on the path to becoming a veterinarian. Good luck with your educational journey!
1. **Associate of Science (A.S.) in Veterinary Technology or Related Field:**
- This degree program is often more science-focused and may include coursework directly related to veterinary sciences, animal biology, and healthcare.
- An A.S. in Veterinary Technology can be particularly beneficial if you're considering becoming a veterinary technician as a stepping stone to becoming a veterinarian.
- You'll likely gain hands-on experience working with animals and learn practical skills that are directly applicable to veterinary practice.
2. **Associate of Arts (A.A.):**
- An A.A. degree is generally more broad in scope and often includes a wider range of liberal arts and general education courses.
- It provides a well-rounded education and can be a good choice if you want to explore other areas of interest alongside your veterinary aspirations.
- You can still take prerequisite science courses required for veterinary school as part of your A.A. curriculum.
Here's some advice to help you decide:
- **Career Goals:** If you're certain about your goal of becoming a veterinarian, an A.S. degree, especially in veterinary technology or a related field, can provide a more direct and specialized path.
- **Transferability:** Check if the college or university you plan to attend for your bachelor's degree (required for veterinary school) accepts both A.S. and A.A. degrees. Some schools may prefer one over the other for prerequisite coursework.
- **Long-Term Interests:** Consider your long-term interests and career goals. If you want a strong foundation in the sciences and are open to exploring different healthcare-related careers, an A.S. might be a better fit. If you value a broader educational background, the A.A. can provide that flexibility.
- **Speak with an Advisor:** Talk to academic advisors at the colleges you're interested in attending and inquire about their recommendations based on your specific career aspirations.
- **Transferring Credits:** If you choose the A.S. and decide to pursue a bachelor's degree in a different field, check if your science credits can be applied to other majors.
Ultimately, both paths can lead to a career in veterinary medicine, but the choice depends on your preferences and goals. Remember that, in the long run, your dedication, academic performance, and extracurricular experiences will play a significant role in your success on the path to becoming a veterinarian. Good luck with your educational journey!
Adriana Shaw
International Student Services Advisor
2
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Adriana’s Answer
Hey Aaliyeh,
This is a great question and what a nurturing career choice :) I am an academic advisor for a local Florida state college so here's what I recommend to my students with similar questions, much like the great advice already provided to this question you want to consider a few factors:
1. Your finances-consider how much funding resources you may or may not have allotted for your education. If you have money saved up, factor this in. However, if you need financial aid, scholarships, or work while in school to pay for classes: keep this in mind when deciding which degree you would like to pursue-the longer you are in school the more expenses you will dish out. Also, look into those funding options such as scholarships early on to help reduce taking out student loans or needing to take out loans for a long period of time (girl student loan debt is no joke and forever daunting-lessen your chances of having to use them or avoid it if you can!)
2. If you pursue an AA degree, be prepared to transfer to a 4 yr. university as AA degrees typically are not structured to lead you directly into your professional field the way an AS degree is. Considering your overall goal for becoming a veterinarian, you will need a higher up credential (masters/doctorates) so pursuing an AA degree, then Bachelors, and so on may be wisest.
3. College "Shop" around: if you have not already done so please take advantage of doing some campus tours of potential schools you may be interested in. You have a great opportunity to book college tours on weekends, or even weeknights if your schedule allows. Go to a potential school of interest (UCF, USF, etc.), head to their admissions page or on the main page of the school's website, there's always a search option-type in "campus tour" and you should see information pop up regarding attending their information sessions, or scheduling a time to go to the actual school of your choice. Before you attend, look into the school's veterinary or biology (sometimes a bio major will get you to your vet career) degree catalog, read the class descriptions, get a feel of what you will be stepping into. Then when your on the tour, request to speak to either a professor or an advisor for your program of interest-have good questions prepared-this is your time to ask all the things and feel more confident about selecting the school right for you.
4. Seek expertise of those in it: ask the professionals you work with about their academic path or talk to career counselors, or your high school's college sucess/transition coach to find out which degree is right for you (I see you're located in Winter Park, Florida, most Florida high schools have a College Transition Coach you can talk to).
Lastly: do not stress-trust this is a process you will figure out and show grace to yourself while you navigate your upcoming college journey :)
This is a great question and what a nurturing career choice :) I am an academic advisor for a local Florida state college so here's what I recommend to my students with similar questions, much like the great advice already provided to this question you want to consider a few factors:
1. Your finances-consider how much funding resources you may or may not have allotted for your education. If you have money saved up, factor this in. However, if you need financial aid, scholarships, or work while in school to pay for classes: keep this in mind when deciding which degree you would like to pursue-the longer you are in school the more expenses you will dish out. Also, look into those funding options such as scholarships early on to help reduce taking out student loans or needing to take out loans for a long period of time (girl student loan debt is no joke and forever daunting-lessen your chances of having to use them or avoid it if you can!)
2. If you pursue an AA degree, be prepared to transfer to a 4 yr. university as AA degrees typically are not structured to lead you directly into your professional field the way an AS degree is. Considering your overall goal for becoming a veterinarian, you will need a higher up credential (masters/doctorates) so pursuing an AA degree, then Bachelors, and so on may be wisest.
3. College "Shop" around: if you have not already done so please take advantage of doing some campus tours of potential schools you may be interested in. You have a great opportunity to book college tours on weekends, or even weeknights if your schedule allows. Go to a potential school of interest (UCF, USF, etc.), head to their admissions page or on the main page of the school's website, there's always a search option-type in "campus tour" and you should see information pop up regarding attending their information sessions, or scheduling a time to go to the actual school of your choice. Before you attend, look into the school's veterinary or biology (sometimes a bio major will get you to your vet career) degree catalog, read the class descriptions, get a feel of what you will be stepping into. Then when your on the tour, request to speak to either a professor or an advisor for your program of interest-have good questions prepared-this is your time to ask all the things and feel more confident about selecting the school right for you.
4. Seek expertise of those in it: ask the professionals you work with about their academic path or talk to career counselors, or your high school's college sucess/transition coach to find out which degree is right for you (I see you're located in Winter Park, Florida, most Florida high schools have a College Transition Coach you can talk to).
Lastly: do not stress-trust this is a process you will figure out and show grace to yourself while you navigate your upcoming college journey :)
Mary Jane Shroyer
Director of Health Professions Career Community
104
Answers
Grinnell, Iowa
Updated
Mary Jane’s Answer
Hi, Aaliyeh! It really doesn't matter which degree you pursue because ultimately, most vet schools prefer that you have a bachelor's degree when you apply, so you will be transferring to a 4-year college or university to complete your studies.
Instead of worrying about AA vs. AS, I recommend that you look at the prerequisite course requirements for your in-state vet school(s) and then speak with an advisor at the community college to determine which of those courses you can complete as part of your Associate's degree that can also be transferred to the 4-year school you'd be interested in attending. My guess is that while you're at the community college, you will be able to start on the introductory biology, chemistry, and math courses you need, in addition to some general education courses like English/composition and social science courses. That would allow you to then focus on the higher-level biology and biochemistry courses you need once you get to the 4-year school.
You will probably need physics for most vet schools, so if your math is shaky, get as much help on math as possible during high school and community college so that you can do well in physics later. Find that list of vet school prereq courses and go into all academic advising sessions with a clear understanding that you are working towards having C grades or better in all of those required classes so that you are eligible to apply to vet school.
Good luck!
Instead of worrying about AA vs. AS, I recommend that you look at the prerequisite course requirements for your in-state vet school(s) and then speak with an advisor at the community college to determine which of those courses you can complete as part of your Associate's degree that can also be transferred to the 4-year school you'd be interested in attending. My guess is that while you're at the community college, you will be able to start on the introductory biology, chemistry, and math courses you need, in addition to some general education courses like English/composition and social science courses. That would allow you to then focus on the higher-level biology and biochemistry courses you need once you get to the 4-year school.
You will probably need physics for most vet schools, so if your math is shaky, get as much help on math as possible during high school and community college so that you can do well in physics later. Find that list of vet school prereq courses and go into all academic advising sessions with a clear understanding that you are working towards having C grades or better in all of those required classes so that you are eligible to apply to vet school.
Good luck!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
218
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Aaliyeh - how wonderful that you want to be a veterinarian and care for our animals! I thought that you might find this link to the Bureau of Labor Statistics to be helpful; it says you will need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an accredited veterinary college- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/veterinarians.htm#:~:text=Veterinarians%20must%20complete%20a%20Doctor,%2C%20laboratory%2C%20and%20clinical%20components.
In addition to looking at that link, you may want to talk with others at the vet clinic about their education and talk with the guidance counselor at your school. It looks like you will eventually need a 4-year degree. If you start with an Associate's degree, I would suggest an A.S. to increase the number of relevant credits to transfer.
Good luck!
Look at Bureau of Labor Statistics link
Ask others at the vet clinic and your guidance counselor about vet education
In addition to looking at that link, you may want to talk with others at the vet clinic about their education and talk with the guidance counselor at your school. It looks like you will eventually need a 4-year degree. If you start with an Associate's degree, I would suggest an A.S. to increase the number of relevant credits to transfer.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Nivea Hanley
AI Engineer
17
Answers
Clearwater, Florida
Updated
Nivea’s Answer
It's great that you're interested in becoming a veterinarian and that you're gaining hands-on experience at a vet clinic. To work towards this goal, you typically need to complete a Bachelor's degree in a related field before applying to veterinary school. Therefore, when deciding between an A.S. (Associates in Science) or A.A. (Associates in Arts), it's a good idea to choose an A.S. program in a science-related field.
An A.S. program in a science discipline such as biology, chemistry, or animal science will likely provide you with a stronger foundation in the sciences, which can be valuable when you pursue a Bachelor's degree in a related field and eventually apply to veterinary school. This coursework will help you meet the prerequisites for veterinary programs and demonstrate your commitment to the scientific aspect of the profession.
However, it's essential to research specific veterinary school admission requirements, as they may have specific prerequisites or preferences. Additionally, maintaining a high GPA and gaining additional veterinary-related experiences will also be crucial for your future application to veterinary school.
An A.S. program in a science discipline such as biology, chemistry, or animal science will likely provide you with a stronger foundation in the sciences, which can be valuable when you pursue a Bachelor's degree in a related field and eventually apply to veterinary school. This coursework will help you meet the prerequisites for veterinary programs and demonstrate your commitment to the scientific aspect of the profession.
However, it's essential to research specific veterinary school admission requirements, as they may have specific prerequisites or preferences. Additionally, maintaining a high GPA and gaining additional veterinary-related experiences will also be crucial for your future application to veterinary school.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4362
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Aaliyeh,
Delighted to guide you with your query.
Considering your aspiration to be a veterinarian and your current experience at a private vet clinic, I suggest you opt for an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Veterinary Technology or Veterinary Medical Technology. This degree will equip you with a thorough understanding of animal health care, covering subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. It also includes internships or practicum courses for practical exposure, preparing you well for your career after graduation.
On the contrary, an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree might not offer the same specialized training and practical experience as an A.A.S. degree. Although an A.A. degree can be a good stepping stone for further education, it may not be the most straightforward route to becoming a veterinarian.
Here are three authoritative references to back my suggestion:
1. "Veterinary Technician and Technologist Education Requirements" by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). It provides in-depth details about the educational requirements to become a veterinary technician or technologist, including the available degrees and the curriculum for each program.
2. "Veterinary Technology Program Accreditation" by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA). It lists accredited veterinary technology programs in the U.S., assisting you in finding a reliable program that aligns with your career ambitions.
3. "Becoming a Veterinarian" by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). It gives an overview of the education and training needed to become a veterinarian, including the required undergraduate and graduate degrees, and the licensing and certification process.
I trust this information will assist you in making an informed choice about your educational journey. Best of luck with your future pursuits!
Take Care.
James.
Delighted to guide you with your query.
Considering your aspiration to be a veterinarian and your current experience at a private vet clinic, I suggest you opt for an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Veterinary Technology or Veterinary Medical Technology. This degree will equip you with a thorough understanding of animal health care, covering subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and clinical procedures. It also includes internships or practicum courses for practical exposure, preparing you well for your career after graduation.
On the contrary, an Associate of Arts (A.A.) degree might not offer the same specialized training and practical experience as an A.A.S. degree. Although an A.A. degree can be a good stepping stone for further education, it may not be the most straightforward route to becoming a veterinarian.
Here are three authoritative references to back my suggestion:
1. "Veterinary Technician and Technologist Education Requirements" by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). It provides in-depth details about the educational requirements to become a veterinary technician or technologist, including the available degrees and the curriculum for each program.
2. "Veterinary Technology Program Accreditation" by the Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA). It lists accredited veterinary technology programs in the U.S., assisting you in finding a reliable program that aligns with your career ambitions.
3. "Becoming a Veterinarian" by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). It gives an overview of the education and training needed to become a veterinarian, including the required undergraduate and graduate degrees, and the licensing and certification process.
I trust this information will assist you in making an informed choice about your educational journey. Best of luck with your future pursuits!
Take Care.
James.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4362
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Go to major university through the final c whether they have veterinary medicine and you want to take the veterinary medicine course which would be about five years I know it is in Australia and that would certainly qualify you to be a vet and you will know the procedures of medicine that looks after animals ourse on the Internet inquire on their courses
Donna Pease
4
Answers
Davenport, Florida
Updated
Donna’s Answer
There are so many opportunities available for the Veterinary field. Do your research on the colleges and what they have to offer. Do you want to do large animals, small animals, exotics, birds, etc. You can specialize in any field you want but first things first with picking your college and a good Vet Tech program. You will be able to get great information from the school as to where and what you can go onto in the field you want. Just keep an open mind as additional schooling might be required. In many situations you can work as an intern and that will give you a really good picture as how your want to proceed.