Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology (Bel-Rea)

The Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology, located on a 6.4-acre campus near Denver, Colorado, stands as one of the oldest and largest veterinary technician training programs in the United States. The institution is dedicated to providing comprehensive, hands-on education for individuals pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. By combining rigorous classroom instruction with practical laboratory experience, Bel-Rea prepares students to meet the demands of the animal healthcare industry.

Training Facilities and Environment

Bel-Rea’s campus is specifically designed to simulate real-world veterinary environments. Students have access to a variety of specialized facilities, including:

• On-site surgery and dental suites.
• A large animal barn and corrals.
• Well-equipped laboratory and classroom spaces.
• On-campus animal residents that facilitate hands-on learning.

Faculty and Mentorship

The educational experience at Bel-Rea is supported by a diverse team of over 40 faculty and staff members. The academic leadership includes licensed veterinarians, certified veterinary technicians, and general education instructors. Beyond formal instruction, students benefit from animal handling mentorship provided by the Paid Animal Care Staff (PACS) and gain additional insights through guest lectures on specialty topics.

Internship Program

A cornerstone of the Bel-Rea curriculum is the mandatory 10-week internship, which takes place during the final quarter of the program. Students are placed at one of over 130 approved veterinary hospitals and facilities. This capstone experience allows students to apply their classroom and laboratory knowledge in a professional clinical setting under the supervision of credentialed veterinarians and technicians, ensuring they gain practical, real-world experience across a variety of veterinary disciplines.

Core Mission and Admissions

Bel-Rea is committed to making veterinary technician education accessible, offering extensive financial aid resources to support its student body. The institution maintains a focus on professional development, frequently hosting continuing education events—such as emergency medicine bootcamps and husbandry seminars—to keep both students and professionals updated on the latest advancements in animal care. Admission is open to high school graduates or those with an equivalent diploma, with specific requirements in place to ensure academic readiness for the program's rigorous curriculum.