Penn Foster College



Online Vet Tech Program: Penn Foster College

Penn Foster’s distance learning vet tech program has been accredited by the AVMA since January 2006. This school is also accredited by the Distance Education & Training Counil (DETC).

This is a popular online vet tech program because the easy admissions requirements, lack of geographic restrictions, and low tuition rates. In addition, you are considered a “class of one”, so you can start your coursework at any time – no waiting for official semesters to start or end. You truly move along at your own pace.



Like other distance learning programs in veterinary technology, you’ll need to complete a substantial number of supervised hours in a clinical setting. In fact, this degree track requires two (2) 225-hour practicums in an animal hospital. This means you will have to make arrangements with a veterinary clinic or hospital that will allow you to apply the skills you’ve learned. According to Penn Foster, no student has ever exited the program because they couldn’t find a practicum site, but students will need to be diligent in contacting veterinary facilities to fulfill this requirement.

Penn Foster graduates have a 95% pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).



This profile was last updated in February 2013.

Program Basics
School Penn Foster College (Scottsdale, AZ)
Degree Type Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
AVMA Accredited  ok
Program Length Time varies. (4 semesters, 87 credits). Students have 12 months to complete Semester 1, 15 months for Semester 2, 12 months for Semester 3, and 18 months for Semester 4, though these semesters can be completed at a faster pace if you wish.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition $1190-$1530 depending on payment plan.
Fees & Other Expenses N/A
Financial Aid Available to those who qualify
Program Experience
Courses are given online and designed for independent study at your own pace. After each lesson you are required to pass a test to move on to the next section. Curiculum requires online participation in webinars and discussion boards with fellow students. At the end of each semester you are required to pass a final exam at an approved proctored testing center. 
Clinical Work/Mentors/Preceptors
This program requires two (2) 225-hour practicums at a veterinary hospital, for a total of 550 hours of clinical coursework required for your degree. Practicum 1 (in Semester 2) is 225 hours, covers 34 skills, and is 12 weeks long (though students can take up to 6 months to complete it). This Practicum will cover cats and dogs, and requires a site with digital imaging. Practicum 2 (in Semester 4) is 225 hours, covers 49 skills, and is 16 weeks long (though students can take up to 6 months to complete it). Students must locate a suitable veterinary clinic/hospital
Admissions Requirements
Degree/Diploma High school diploma or equivalent
Required Classes None
Geographic Restrictions None
Interviews None
Reference Letters None

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