Develop the knowledge and confidence to work with, care for, and manage the day-to-day needs of a wide range of companion animals in different situations.

If you want to further your career working with, and managing, companion animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents, and birds, then this is the programme for you. Explore the basics of animal anatomy, welfare, behaviour and husbandry, learn how to recognise signs of good and poor health across a range of companion animals, and understand how to manage animals in a range of environments.

Develop an awareness of the social, ethical, and environmental issues that affect animal management through self-selected work placements, where you'll discover how to communicate effectively within a team and apply basic business and customer service skills in the work environment.

Highlights

• Practical work placements in an animal facility of your choice
• Practical experience within Unitec's Behaviour and Husbandry Centre - Te Puna Kararehe
• Experienced lecturers who are experts in the fields of animal behaviour, health, and welfare, and who continue to work and research closely with industry

Where to next?

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 Bachelor of Applied Science (Animal Management and Welfare).

Please note: International students who graduate will NOT be eligible for a post-study work visa upon completion of this programme.

CAREER OPTIONS

• Animal control
• Kennel/cattery
• Pet stores
• Doggy daycare
• Pet product sales representative