Enhance your understanding of companion animal welfare with a specialized program focused on improving the care practices of pets.
Credential Type
Undergraduate Certificate
Cost (2024)
$3,816
Delivery Format
Online
Program Length
9 Credit Hours
Enrollment
Fall or Spring
Eligibility Criteria
No degree required
Benefit 1
Gain deep insights into animal behavior and welfare.
Benefit 2
Advance your career with specialized animal care knowledge.
Benefit 3
Improve companion animal lives through expert care.
Overview
This certificate is for veterinarians, animal care professionals, pet owners and breeders, and animal welfare advocates.
It allows you to learn from comprehensive courses on companion animal welfare and care, enhancing your expertise and practical skills in ensuring the well-being of pets.
Skills You Will Learn
Upon completing this certificate, you will:
- Understand the fundamentals of anatomy, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and behavior to provide optimal care for various pet species, including dogs, cats, small mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
- Gain insight into companion animals' historical and current roles in society, including the evolution of animal protection laws and the functions of assistance and service animals.
- Learn about the dynamics of the pet supply industry and the economic factors influencing pet care.
- Develop an understanding of the ethical and legal aspects of companion animal care, ensuring responsible and informed decision-making.
- Apply knowledge of animal biology to manage preventive health care, address common health issues, and maintain overall well-being.
- Engage with and critically analyze controversial issues in animal welfare, such as ethical breeding practices and the rights of companion animals.
- Explore career opportunities and professional roles in companion animal care, including welfare advocacy, veterinary support, and industry regulation.
Build Skills that Matter
Gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in your field and create meaningful impact.
Course Details
The Companion Animal Welfare & Care Certificate is a 9-hour program.
To earn this certificate, you'll complete the following:
Required courses:
- ANSC 250: Companion Animals in Society; 3 credit hours, offered Fall, Spring, and Summer
and one of the following
- ANSC 207: The Science of Pets and How to Care for Them; 3 credit hours, offered Fall and Spring
- ANSC 307: Companion Animal Management; 3 credit hours, offered Fall
Elective courses (choose one):
- ANSC 255: Animal Ethics; 3 credit hours, offered Fall and Spring
- ANSC 305: Human-Animal Interactions; 3 credit hours, offered Fall and Spring
- ANSC 370: Companion Animal Policy; 3 credit hours, offered Spring (second 8 weeks)
How to Enroll
Applying for this Certificate
Current University of Illinois students are eligible to enroll in the courses each semester (Fall, Spring, Summer). Start your certificate.
Non-current students may also enroll in courses as a non-degree student. You can learn more about the non-degree process or start your application. For questions about the process, please contact acesonline@illinois.edu.
Receiving your Certificate
For all students, after courses are completed, confirm your completion of the requirements.
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