In addition to grade 12, you will need specialized certification for most job types. There are a number of programs available, which take two to three years to complete, including supervised practical work experience. The shortest program is the four-month certificate program for medical laboratory assistants. The Canadian Hospital Association offers a two-year correspondence course for food service supervisor certification. A two-year certificate is not required to become an animal health technologist but it does increase employment opportunities significantly, especially in larger hospital practices.
Volunteer work can lead to employment.
New technologies, which increase productivity, are emerging and health care policy is changing, both of which may limit demand, especially for medical laboratory technologists and technicians. Technological changes will not reduce employment opportunities for other medical technologists and technicians, such as radiation, ultrasound, cardiology and other technologists. The shift from institutional care to community-based care means fewer jobs in hospitals. Employment for medical laboratory technologists and technicians will rise at a slower rate than for other medical occupations. Demand for veterinary services will steadily grow as the population increases.