Key Takeaways
- Morehead State University’s veterinary technology program has held continuous AVMA‑CVTEA accreditation since 1977, making it one of the longest‑standing accredited programs in the U.S.
- The program emphasizes hands‑on learning, delivering over 650 hours of clinical experience at the University Farm and affiliated animal‑care facilities.
- Graduates enjoy 100 % job placement in recent years, with employers often extending offers before graduation.
- MSU offers both an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in veterinary technology, providing flexible pathways for career advancement.
- The program was named the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators (AVTE) Program of the Year in 2025, underscoring its national reputation for excellence and innovation.
Program Legacy and Accreditation History
Morehead State University’s veterinary technology program has been continuously accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) since 1977. This milestone places the program among the earliest group of institutions to receive formal accreditation after the AVMA established its standards in 1972. Over nearly five decades, the program has maintained a distinguished legacy, reflecting a long‑term commitment to meeting evolving national benchmarks for veterinary technician education.
Curriculum Design and Hands‑On Training
The curriculum blends classroom instruction with extensive practical experience, requiring students to complete more than 650 hours of hands‑on training. Much of this clinical work occurs at the University Farm and partner animal‑care facilities, allowing learners to develop proficiency in companion animal practice, large animal medicine, research techniques, and specialized veterinary fields. This immersive approach ensures that graduates possess the technical skills and confidence needed to excel in diverse veterinary settings immediately upon entry to the workforce.
Faculty Excellence and Leadership Insight
Dr. Amy Staton, a triple‑alumni (Class of 2003, 2004, 2005, 2013) and current director of the veterinary technology program, highlights the personal significance of the program’s continued accreditation. She notes that faculty members are among the best in the nation, and their unwavering dedication to student success drives the program’s high outcomes. Staton’s perspective underscores the continuity of excellence from her own student days to the present learning environment.
Accreditation Process and Standards
AVMA CVTEA accreditation represents the gold standard for veterinary technology education. The review process is rigorous, occurring on a regular six‑year cycle and encompassing a comprehensive self‑study, peer‑reviewed site visits, and ongoing evaluation of program performance. Programs must demonstrate excellence in curriculum quality, faculty qualifications, facilities, and student outcomes. Morehead State’s renewed accreditation confirms that it not only meets but exceeds these stringent criteria, preserving graduates’ eligibility to sit for the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and pursue licensure nationwide.
National Recognition and Rankings
Beyond accreditation, the program consistently ranks among the top veterinary technology programs in the United States and holds the #1 position in Kentucky. In 2025, it received the Association of Veterinary Technician Educators (AVTE) Program of the Year award, a accolade that recognizes outstanding quality, innovation, and impact on the profession. Such distinctions reinforce MSU’s reputation as a leader in veterinary technician education and highlight its contributions to advancing the field.
Graduate Outcomes and Employment Demand
Recent cohorts have achieved a 100 % job placement rate, with employers across the veterinary industry actively recruiting MSU students—often extending offers before graduation. This strong demand reflects both the program’s high caliber and the growing national need for credentialed veterinary technicians. As veterinary care expands, career opportunities for graduates continue to grow at a pace exceeding many other professions, ensuring long‑term professional stability and advancement potential.
Academic Pathways and Degree Options
Morehead State provides two distinct educational routes: an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in veterinary technology. The AAS prepares students for immediate entry into technical roles, while the BS offers deeper scientific knowledge and opens doors to supervisory, research, or specialized positions. Both pathways incorporate the program’s hallmark hands‑on training, guaranteeing that graduates are ready to deliver high‑quality care to veterinary teams in a variety of settings, from private clinics to research institutions.
Contact Information and Next Steps
Prospective students interested in learning more about Morehead State’s veterinary technology program can reach out to Dr. Amy Staton via email at [email protected] or by phone at 606‑783‑2328. General inquiries about the program can also be directed to 606‑783‑2662. These contacts provide a direct line to program faculty and admissions staff, facilitating informed decisions about pursuing a career in veterinary technology at MSU.