VMT Curriculum

VMT Curriculum

Explore the VMT Curriculum at Mississippi State University

VMT Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

If you love animals and want to make a difference in their lives, the Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT) program at Mississippi State University is the perfect place to start. Our curriculum is designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to thrive in the veterinary field. Our students don’t just sit in classrooms. They work side-by-side with veterinary students and professionals, gaining real-world experience and building the skills they need to become leaders in animal care.

From day one, you’ll be immersed in a learning environment that combines science, compassion, and real-world practice. Whether you're a high school student planning your future or a transfer student looking to continue your education, the VMT program offers a clear path to a fulfilling career.

Year One

At Mississippi State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, our Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT) program dives right into hands-on learning from day one.

Whether you're coming straight from high school or transferring from another college, you’ll jump into a fast-paced, 8-week block schedule — meaning you’ll focus on just a few classes at a time but go deep into each one.

Our curriculum covers a wide range of topics essential to veterinary medical technology. In your first year alone, you’ll get real experience with:

  • X-rays & Ultrasound – Learn how to image animals just like nurses do for people.
  • Microscopy & Cytology – Use microscopes to study cells and assist in diagnosing diseases.
  • Culture & Sensitivity – Discover how to test for bacteria and choose the right treatments.
  • Blood Work & Urinalysis – Analyze samples to monitor animal health.
  • Fecal Flotation – Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like — and it’s important!
  • Auscultation – Learn to listen to heart and lung sounds like a pro.
  • Venipuncture – Practice drawing blood safely and confidently.

And that’s just year one.

If you’re passionate about animals and want a career where you make a difference every day, our VMT program is a great place to start.

Some of our core courses include:

  • CVM 3112 – Animal Handling, Husbandry, and Nutrition
    Learn about animal handling techniques for large, small, and exotic companion animals, basic nutrition and care, and the role of the veterinary technologist.
  • CVM 3132 – Clinical Pathology Laboratory Techniques
    Explore laboratory procedures such as cytology, urinalysis, and microbiology used to diagnose animal health conditions.
  • CVM 3232 – Veterinary Pharmacology
    Understand drug classifications, dosages, and administration techniques used in veterinary medicine.
  • CVM 3221 – Surgical Nursing and Anesthetic Management
    Gain hands-on experience in preparing animals for surgery, monitoring anesthesia, and assisting in post-operative care.
  • CVM 3202 – Diagnostic Imaging for Veterinary Technologists
    Learn how to take and interpret radiographs and other imaging techniques used in veterinary diagnostics.
  • CVM 3243 – Basics of Practices, Procedures, and Management
    Develop skills in client communication, record keeping, and practice management.
  • CVM 3031 – Food Animal Technical Skills
    Work with horses, cattle, and other large animals to learn restraint, medication administration, and herd health practices.
  • CVM 3022 – Small Animal Technical Skills
    Focus on dogs, cats, and other companion animals in clinical settings.

Year Two

Clinical Rotations & Real-World Experience

In your second and final year of the Veterinary Medical Technology (VMT) program, you’ll move beyond the classroom and into the heart of veterinary practice. This is where your training becomes real.

You’ll enter clinical rotations at the Animal Health Center, a full-service veterinary teaching hospital, where you’ll work side-by-side with licensed Veterinarians (DVMs) and Veterinary Technologists (VMTs). You won’t just observe—you’ll be part of the team, actively managing real cases and providing care to actual patients.

As a student veterinary technologist, you’ll take on responsibilities such as:

  • Assisting in surgeries and monitoring anesthesia
  • Performing diagnostic tests and interpreting lab results
  • Administering medications and treatments
  • Communicating with clients and supporting patient care decisions

Clinical Rotations You’ll Experience

During your final year, you’ll rotate through a variety of specialized areas, gaining exposure to different species, procedures, and veterinary disciplines. These include:

  • Small Animal Internal Medicine
    Work with dogs and cats experiencing complex medical conditions, learning how to manage chronic diseases and acute illnesses.
  • Small Animal Surgery
    Assist in surgical procedures, from routine spays and neuters to orthopedic and soft tissue surgeries.
  • Anesthesia & Pain Management
    Monitor patients before, during, and after surgery, ensuring safe anesthesia protocols and effective pain control.
  • Radiology
    Learn to take and interpret diagnostic images including X-rays, ultrasound, and advanced imaging techniques.
  • Large Animal Medicine & Surgery
    Gain experience with horses, cattle, and other large animals, focusing on herd health, lameness exams, and surgical procedures.
  • Emergency & Critical Care
    Participate in fast-paced, high-stakes cases involving trauma, toxicities, and life-threatening conditions.
  • Clinical Pathology & Laboratory Diagnostics
    Perform bloodwork, urinalysis, cytology, and other lab tests that help diagnose and monitor animal health.
  • Exotics & Zoological Medicine
    Work with birds, reptiles, and small mammals, learning the unique care requirements of non-traditional pets.
  • Community Practice
    Engage in routine wellness care, client education, and preventive medicine in a general practice setting.
  • Externships

Work alongside veterinary professionals in clinics, hospitals, or other animal care settings to gain hands-on experience, build professional skills, and explore career paths in veterinary medicine.

Why It Matters

These rotations are more than just training—they’re your opportunity to build confidence, develop professional skills, and prepare for certification as a veterinary technologist. You’ll graduate with real experience, ready to step into a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or specialty practice and make an immediate impact.