Admission Requirements

Minimum criteria for admission

Educational Requirements

1. B.C. Grade 12 or equivalent, C average
2. B.C. Math 11 (Principles) or equivalent, C+ minimum grade
3. B.C. Biology 11 or equivalent, C+ minimum grade
4. B.C. Chemistry 11 or equivalent, C+ minimum grade
5. B.C. English 12/Government Composite of 67% or LPI Level 3 or English 0600 C+ minimum
6. The prospective applicant must also have taken one British Columbia Grade 12 Science (or equivalent, C+ minimum grade). If this course is Biology 12 or Biol 0600 then the requirement for Biology 11 (or equivalent, C+ minimum grade) is waived. Note: Biology 12 or Biol 0600 is recommended

If applicable, please submit any transcripts of post-secondary education.

Note: Mature student status does not apply to this program.

General Requirements

1. Canadian Citizenship or Landed Immigrant Status
2. Evidence of orientation to a veterinary practice (signature of veterinarian required). It is required that applicants complete two weeks (80 hours) working, volunteering or observing in a veterinary clinic
3. Submission of completed questionnaire with application
4. One reference letter from each of the following 3 areas: current veterinary orientation site, other animal related experience site and any non-veterinary work or volunteer experience
5. Submission of Language Proficiency Index results if applicable
6. Computer experience recommended
7. Attendance at Program Orientation Session upon invitation from the Animal Health Technology Department
8. Successful medical - upon acceptance

Competition for admission to the AHT program is extremely intensive and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee an invitation to an orientation session or admission into the program.

Note: Applicants should have a sound secondary school background and an interest in working with and caring for animals. This includes such areas as farms, SPCA, wildlife refuges or any other animal oriented facility. Students should have a desire to develop manual and technical skills. A minimum of 80 hours of practical experience in a veterinary facility is essential for admission to the AHT program. Consultation with practicing AHTs is strongly advised. Successful applicants may be required to spend additional time at a veterinary facility before commencing classes.

Curricula between different AHT programs may not qualify for transferablity of equal course credits and will only be considered if space is available.  Please review the course content of Thompson Rivers University's AHT curriculum and courses with the AHT program where you are currently enrolled.  Careful consideration may be given for transferring from one institution's AHT program to TRU's AHT program but credit is not granted automatically.

Note: The Chairperson may at his or her discretion, waive certain entrance requirements. Please contact the Chairperson for advice.