Are you passionate about the care and welfare of companion animals? This certificate programme is a great place to start your professional career working with animals. Programme overview Whether you’re straight out of school, currently working with animals or thinking about a career change, the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care is a great place to start your career working with animals! We cover all aspects of animal care including health, hygiene, behaviour and handling. We give you the knowledge and skills to care for a wide range of companion animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, reptiles and birds, in a variety of settings including your home, pet shops, kennels and catteries. Highlights Take the first steps towards an animal care-related professional career by gaining a comprehensive understanding of animal husbandry Develop essential communication skills and professional capabilities Passionate teaching staff who are experts in their fields and work closely with industry This programme can provide a pathway for further study in a range of animal management programmes within Environmental and Animal Sciences at Unitec. Access to Unitec's small animal unit where you'll get a hands-on introduction to animal care through 12 hours on-site practical training and 48 hours placement experience at an approved external facility. A mix of on-campus classes, practicals, and self-directed learning Where to next? Successful completion of this programme will allow you to: work in the animal care industry with limited supervision If you're interested in continuing your studies, this programme will give you the academic admission requirements for higher-level animal programmes at Unitec including the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Veterinary Nursing Assistant), the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Management and the Certificate in Animal Welfare Investigations. Career Options Animal minder in a range of animal facilities Boarding kennel or cattery attendant Pet shop assistant Wildlife rehabilitation aide Facility assistant for SPCA Pet supply sales representative Entry into further study at certificate or diploma level. Distance learning over one semester from April to September. Anyone from across New Zealand is eligible for this programme as the bulk of the programme is online. Please note: students must be able to attend two compulsory on-campus block courses.