Distance Learning Admissions Requirements and Process

Becoming a distance learning student can be challenging, whether you are a high school student or someone who has been in the workforce for many years. The process can be daunting but we are here to support you as you begin your journey with us. Take your first step and contact us today!

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent (high school transcript required).
  • If you have a high school equivalency, we need both the equivalency score report and the previous high school transcript.
• Minimum high school subject matter prerequisites:
  • Science - 6 semesters
  • English - 8 semesters
  • Academic math - 6 semesters
  • Deficiencies may be made up with college-level courses (one 100-level or higher college course counts as two high school semesters)
• Applicants must be 18 years of age prior to entering clinical courses.
• ACT/SAT scores.
  • This requirement is waived for any applicant who is 23 years old or older and/or has completed 24 hours or more of college level coursework.
• If applicant has earned college credit, official college transcripts must be provided to admissions@purdue.edu for evaluation of applicable coursework.
• Admission deadlines:
  • Spring: November 1
  • Summer: April 1
  • Fall: June 1

Transferring Credits

The VNDL program requires 70 credit hours for graduation. Of these 70 credit hours, 65 are specific veterinary nursing classes. The 5 credits that can be transferred toward the degree include:

• 3-credit hour English Composition
• 2-credit hour elective

Completing the Program

Many people think of an associate degree as a two year degree. However, this is not true of Purdue's VNDL associate degree. Most VNDL students maintain their employment status and have family responsibilities. Because of this, the average time to complete the VNDL degree is 5 years.

While the curriculum for the VNDL and the on-campus program are the same, the on-campus students are in class, labs, and clinical rotations from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., five days a week. VNDL students are typically unable to make that kind of time commitment because of their life/job situation. 

Students are encouraged to consider their work and family commitments when thinking about the number of courses each semester. While a lower course load extends time to graduation, the desire of the program is for students to be successful and supported throughout their academic journey.

Professional Credential Information

Purdue University’s Veterinary Nursing Distance Learning (VNDL) program is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Graduates of the VNDL program are eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), which leads to a professional credential as a Veterinary Technician/Nurse in all 50 states.

Learn more

Students NOT Residing in the United States

It is essential that students learn techniques that are considered state of the art of veterinary medicine. All veterinary facilities must meet the requirements for Clinical Mentorship facilities.