Veterinary Degrees Online

The objective of the Bachelor’s degree program in Laboratory Animal Management is to prepare graduates to provide the daily care for the animals used in biomedical research, and to provide support to the veterinary and research staff within a research facility. Graduates will be prepared to assume supervisory roles relating to the overall management of laboratory animal care personnel and the animal care facility.
The Massachusetts Society for Medical Research has identified the lack of sufficient appropriately trained staff caring for Laboratory Animals as one of the biggest threats to the more than $2.5 billion dollar industry of biomedical research in New England. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this field is expected to grow faster than average through 2016. The Worcester area is home to several scientific research and development companies which are significant employers in this area.

The College’s modern, on-campus veterinary clinic houses a kennel, laboratory animal rooms, dog training and grooming rooms in addition to clinical facilities. Field trips to area research facilities supplement the hands-on experience in the classroom and laboratory. Students are encouraged to work part-time in a biotechnical research setting to enhance learned technical skills. This is facilitated by the internship and preceptorship components of the curriculum which may result in additional employment opportunities.

This program has been specifically developed for those individuals who feel a strong attachment toward animals and want to work closely with them on a daily basis. Emphasis is placed on the practical aspects of animal care and management. The primary focus is on dogs and cats but students also receive instruction in the health maintenance and care of laboratory animals.

Many students who select the Animal Care program are actually undecided as to which specific area in the animal care field best suits them. One of the strengths of the program is that it exposes students to the wide variety of opportunities in the animal care profession. The College’s modern, on-campus veterinary clinic houses a kennel, dog training and grooming rooms and laboratory animal rooms.

Graduates of this program are prepared to demonstrate correct kennel management procedures; evaluate and modify canine behavior; perform basic grooming skills; and demonstrate proper health, safety and nutritional practices for companion animals.