SUNY Canton Adds Four-Year Veterinary Technology Degree

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SUNY Canton veterinary science technology students Shamira M. Perez of Syracuse and Madelyn I. Scott of Watertown take dogs out for exercise as part of their kennel duties.

CANTON, NY (04/27/2011)(readMedia)-- SUNY Canton is now one of about 20 schools in the country to offer a Bachelor's of Science in Veterinary Technology degree.

The College has received approval from the State University of New York and the New York State Department of Education to offer the four-year program beginning in Fall 2011.

"As one of only three schools in New York State with this program, we now provide Northern New York with a level of education in the veterinary sciences field that hasn't been offered before," said SUNY Canton President Joseph L. Kennedy. "Graduates of this program will have their choice of job opportunities locally, regionally and nationally because they are in such high demand in a variety of fields."

SUNY Canton's veterinary science technology program has been in existence since 1978, making it one of the oldest accredited programs in the state. The new four-year degree compliments the College's associate's degree program but will not replace it. It is designed to offer an alternative for students seeking a bachelor's degree.

"Our graduates from the two-year degree program consistently score very high on the Veterinary Technology National Exam (VTNE) but often want to further their education," said Dr. Mary O'Horo Loomis, D.V.M., the program's director. "They want more advanced technical training, are looking for supervisory or managerial roles in practices that require this level of education, or are interested in Master's and other advanced degree programs."

More information about the new program can be found at: http://www.canton.edu/sci_health/vet/.

The program will expand a student's education in veterinary science, physical sciences, public health issues and occupational safety, and will also include other electives. The program offers the potential for students to take the courses required for entrance into most veterinary colleges.

Many of the classes will be held in the College's Newell Veterinary Technical Center, which houses the Veterinary Science Technology programs. The 12,000-square-foot building opened in 2003 and includes state-of-the-art clinics and teaching facilities, as well as conference, reception and study areas. Kennels for dogs, cats, rabbits and mice, an x-ray room, surgery facilities, labs, and classrooms are also located in the building.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment outlook for veterinary technology graduates is expected to grow 36 percent over the next decade, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The anticipated growth is due to the continued increase in demand for veterinary care.

In addition to private practice, veterinary technologists and technicians are also employed by government agencies who oversee public health issues, food quality assurance, and animal disease control programs. Graduates will also have the opportunity to begin careers in research laboratories, university centers and pharmaceutical companies who conduct biochemical research on animal models.

For more information or to seek admission into the program, contact the SUNY Canton Admissions Office at 315-386-7123 or email admissions@canton.edu.

SUNY Canton offers a wide variety of career-driven bachelor's, associate, and certificate programs. Most of SUNY Canton's new four-year programs are designed so students can take them on-campus, online, or both. SUNY Canton OnLine features more than 150 courses online each semester. The College's athletic teams belong to the NAIA's Sunrise Conference, enabling students to compete in their respective sports for four years. Construction of the College's new Convocation, Athletic, and Recreation Center nicknamed Roos House is nearing completion, while the new apartment-style residence hall, featuring 305 single-occupancy rooms, is under construction and will open in August 2011.

-www.canton.edu-