Vet tech schools in Santa Cruz, CA

3 schools within 30 miles of Santa Cruz, CA offer veterinary technician programs, and the closest is Carrington College - San Jose in San Jose, 24 miles away. Vet teches in California earn a median $60,630 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
3
Closest
24 mi
Public colleges
1
Median pay in CA
$60,630

3 veterinary technician schools within 30 mi of Santa Cruz, CA

School results

  1. Carrington College - San Jose

    San Jose, CA · 24 mi · Private

    • Veterinary technician
    • Medical assistant
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +5
  2. Foothill College

    Los Altos Hills, CA · 27 mi · Public

    • Veterinary technician
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +10
  3. Central Coast College

    Salinas, CA · 28 mi · Private

    • Veterinary technician
    • Medical assistant
    • Nursing assistant (CNA)
    • +2

What vet teches earn in California

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Median pay
$60,630
$29.15 an hour
Typical range
$48,240–$75,860
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in CA
11,310
Job growth, 2025–35
+9.4%
13,400 openings a year (U.S.)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the closest veterinary technician schools to Santa Cruz?

The closest are Carrington College - San Jose (San Jose, 24 mi), Foothill College (Los Altos Hills, 27 mi), and Central Coast College (Salinas, 28 mi). In total, 3 schools within 30 miles teach veterinary technician.

How much do veterinary technician programs near Santa Cruz cost?

For the 3 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $7,653 to $36,466. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do vet teches make near Santa Cruz?

Across California, the median pay is $60,630 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.

How do I choose a veterinary technician school in Santa Cruz?

Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.