Animal Care Certificate Programs: Launch Your Career in Animal Services

Are you passionate about animals and looking for a fulfilling career working with them? Animal care is a rewarding field, offering diverse opportunities to make a difference in the lives of creatures big and small. For individuals seeking a structured pathway into this industry, Animal Care Certificate Programs provide the essential skills and knowledge to succeed. These programs are designed to equip you with practical expertise and open doors to various entry-level positions within the animal care sector.

Coastline College’s Special Programs Career Options through Academic Support and Training (COAST) Program offers a comprehensive Animal Care Certificate of Completion. This program is tailored for students seeking hands-on experience and vocational training. Taught by experienced faculty and mentored by professionals in the field, the program provides a robust learning environment. Students can choose to begin with “Fundamentals of Basic Animal Care” to explore the field or enroll in the complete series of courses to earn their Animal Care Certificate of Completion.

This three-semester program delivers a broad understanding of animal care, focusing on both common pets and exotic animals found in Orange County and similar regions. Classes are held at the Coastline College campus in Newport Beach and at various animal-related locations throughout Orange County. This immersive approach includes learning at zoos, farms, wetlands, equestrian centers, and even beachside environments, offering diverse and real-world experience.

Beyond basic pet care, the curriculum expands into specialized areas critical for animal professionals. Students will gain valuable certifications and skills in Animal First Aid, essential for responding to emergencies. They will also develop practical skills in basic grooming and animal training techniques, highly sought after by employers. Furthermore, the program delves into the unique needs of exotic animal care and fosters an understanding of animal advocacy and conservation, broadening career perspectives.

Graduates of the Animal Care Certificate of Completion program are well-prepared for numerous entry-level paid positions in the animal care industry. Potential career paths include roles such as Animal Care Giver (ACG), Assistant Animal Care Technician, Assistant Aquarist, Dog Trainer, Pet Groomer, Kennel Attendant, and Farm Hand. These roles represent just the beginning, with opportunities for career advancement as experience grows. Beyond paid employment, the program encourages community engagement through volunteer work with non-profit animal care organizations and participation in community stewardship initiatives, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and further enhancing practical skills.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the necessary skills and practical experience to confidently participate in a wide range of basic animal care activities.
2. Independently apply and execute best practices in animal care, whether working independently or collaboratively with faculty, managers, staff, fellow students, and clients.

This certificate signifies the completion of a noncredit program designed to pave the way for career advancement in the animal care field or to serve as a stepping stone towards further degree-applicable coursework in related disciplines.

Course List & Hours