Course

Veterinary Radiography

Faculty
Science and Technology
Department
Veterinary Technology
Course code
VTEC 2109
Credits
3.00
Semester length
15 Weeks
Max class size
30
Method(s) of instruction
Lecture
Lab
Course designation
None
Industry designation
None
Typically offered
Fall

Overview

Course description
This course covers all aspects of veterinary radiography. Topics include theoretical aspects of radiography, radiation safety, patient handling techniques, correct positioning for radiography and evaluation of radiographs.
Course content

Principles of veterinary radiography

  • radiation physics and generation of X-rays
  • radiographic technique
  • terminology

Radiation safety and safe work practices

  • legislation
  • safety equipment 

Generation of radiographs

  • positioning techniques for small animals
  • collimator use
  • radiographic studies of different body regions

Evaluation of radiographs

  • general principles and guidelines
  • evaluation of different anatomical areas
  • troubleshooting and resolving radiograph errors

Labelling, storage and handling of radiographic images

  • identification and labelling
  • medical records including radiography logs
  • use of digital imaging software
Learning activities

Instructional activities may include online pre-recorded videos, webinars, open book quizzes, radiograph assignments and evaluations, case studies and labs using cadavers and live animals.

Means of assessment

Assessments will be in accordance with the Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester. 

In order to achieve a grade of C (or higher) in the course, students must:

  • demonstrate competency (a performance of 60% or higher) in an evaluation of each of the assigned essential skills
  • attend a minimum of 80% of the scheduled lab hours
  • achieve a final minimum grade of 60% in each of the lecture and lab components

Evaluation will be based on:

Lab evaluations: 20-40% (no single evaluation worth more than 10%)

Assignments: 10-30%

Quizzes: 10-20% (no single quiz worth more than 5%)

Term test(s): 10-20%

Final examination(s): 20-40%

Total: 100%

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

  • explain the generation and physical properties of X-rays;
  • explain the function of X-ray machines and the principles of radiographic image formation;
  • implement and maintain appropriate radiation safety measures;
  • operate an X-ray machine;
  • accurately position companion animals for routine radiographic evaluations of different anatomical areas;
  • centre and collimate the primary beam on the area of interest;
  • discuss the effects of kilovoltage peak (kVp) and milliamp-seconds (mAs) on the density and contrast of the final image;
  • evaluate radiographic images to identify errors in image acquisition;
  • label, adjust and store radiographic images using image acquisition software;
  • describe the species-specific radiographic techniques needed to acquire radiographs of small mammals, reptiles and birds;
  • accurately complete medical records and radiographic logs;
  • describe quality control procedures used in radiography.
Textbook materials

Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials. Example textbooks and materials may include:

M. Brown and L. Brown. (Current Edition). Lavin's Radiography for Veterinary Technicians. Pub Elsevier.

Requisites

Prerequisites

One of VTEC 1211 or VTEC 1203 and VTEC 1304 and VTEC 1305 and VTEC 1315

Students in the Veterinary Technology program are required to maintain a minimum grade of C in all courses in order to progress in the program.

Corequisites

None

Equivalencies

None

Course Guidelines

Course Guidelines for previous years are viewable by selecting the version desired. If you took this course and do not see a listing for the starting semester / year of the course, consider the previous version as the applicable version.

(Current)

Course Transfers to Other Institutions

Below are current transfer agreements from Douglas College to other institutions for the current course guidelines only. For a full list of transfer details and archived courses, please see the BC Transfer Guide.

Institution Transfer details for VTEC 2109
There are no applicable transfer credits for this course.

Course Offerings

Summer 2026

CRN Days Instructor Status
Maximum seats
30
Currently enrolled
0
Remaining seats:
30
On waitlist
0
Building
Coquitlam - Bldg. A
Room
A2143
Times:
Start Time
8:30
-
End Time
12:20
Building
Coquitlam - Bldg. A
Room
A2145
Times:
Start Time
8:30
-
End Time
12:20
Building
Online
Room
ONLINE
Times:
Start Time
12:30
-
End Time
14:20
Section notes

This is a condensed summer hybrid course. Exams will take place the week of July 10 - 17.