New Programs in Vet Tech, Physical Therapy

Apr 08, 2019

At California University of Pennsylvania, new associate, bachelor’s and doctoral degrees will propel graduates into fast-growing fields.

new programs

Veterinary technology

On-campus classes are scheduled to begin this fall for students seeking careers in veterinary technology, one of the fastest-growing areas of employment nationwide.

Increases in pet ownership, a growing demand for service and working animals, and expansion of veterinary specialties are fueling the need for skilled technicians to work in veterinary clinics and hospitals, large-animal practices, wildlife rehabilitation centers, boarding kennels, government and industry labs, humane societies and more. Forty-one states, including Pennsylvania, reported a shortage of veterinary services last year.

Cal U will offer two “vet tech” degree programs: a two-year Associate of Science in Veterinary Technology and a four-year Bachelor of Science. Students in the “2+2” program may complete the associate degree and, if they wish, advance seamlessly to earn a bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology or one of Cal U’s biology majors.

Physical therapy

Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education has approved Cal U’s request to develop a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. The University is seeking a founding director for the three-year, full-time professional graduate program.

The growing demand for physical therapists is driven by an aging population, including baby boomers who are committed to staying active later in life. Widespread chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity also create mobility issues for patients, boosting the demand for physical therapy.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth of 28% for physical therapists – much faster than the average for all occupations – between 2016 and 2026.

Students who earn a B.S. in Health Science at Cal U will be among those ideally positioned to apply for admission to the DPT program. California University also offers a rigorous, two-year Associate of Applied Science program for physical therapist assistants.

To learn more or enroll at Cal U, call the Admissions Office at 724-938-4404.