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Qualifications Overview

Courses and study for working with animals

Qualifications in Animal Care (Studies), Animal Behaviour & Training and Veterinary Nursing

AVT offers a range of qualifications relating to the areas of animal care including veterinary nursing, animal care and animal studies as well as animal behaviour and training. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your knowledge in these areas, our qualifications are well recognised and trusted by employers. Your qualification will be nationally recognised in Australia and also provides a pathway for a higher-level education. Thousands of students from Australia have chosen AVT as their animal care training provider.

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care

(previously ACM20117 Certificate II in Animal Studies)

Online

Animal Care Online

Our Online Course allows students up to 1 year to complete their course. It is an ideal starting point for those with very little or no prior knowledge or experience in the animal care industry. It is also the minimum pre-requisite for the Veterinary Nursing qualification.

About Studying Online

Animal Care Online

Our online course provides the most flexibility for students who are not based in Perth or who wish to combine their studies with work or other commitments.
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On-Site

Animal Health & Welfare - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

Students enjoy a combination of on-site practical training at Perth's Cat Haven and Dogs' Refuge Home, classroom activities at our Ascot campus, and home-based eLearning over 14 weeks.

About Animal Health & Welfare

Animal Health & Welfare (Dogs' Refuge Home & Cat Haven)

Perfect for students who are seeking an introduction to the animal care industry, including experience and knowledge in the area of shelter care, rehoming, and welfare.
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On-Campus

Vet Nursing Pathway - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

This 14 week program is delivered via blended learning where students focus on developing skills and knowledge to prepare them for ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing or to work as an Animal Attendant in a veterinary practice.

About Vet Nursing Pathway

Vet Nursing Pathway

Students enjoy a combination of practical training and classroom activities at our purpose built facility in Ascot.
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On-Site

VETDSS High School - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

This is an on-site 6 month course specifically for high school students. Incorporating classroom and hands-on training at Landsdale Farm in Darch, WA. Practical assessments will be completed with our experienced Trainers. Work placement is not required.

About Our Schools Program

VETDSS for High School Students

Students will work with a range of companion and farm animals to learn important low stress handling skills as well as the foundations of animal care.
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On-Site

Exhibited Animal Care - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

This 7 month program is delivered via blended learning where students explore the world of animal care at Landsdale Farm in Darch, WA

Study Pathway - Exhibited Animals

Learn About Exhibited Animals

This course is designed to suit students who aspire to work in animal care facilities such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, aquaria, tourism farms, farm stays or other environments where animals are cared for or exhibited.
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On-Site

VETDSS High School - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

This is an on-site 6 month course specifically for high school students. Incorporating classroom and hands-on training at Landsdale Farm in Darch, WA. Practical assessments will be completed with our experienced Trainers. Work placement is not required.

About Our Schools Program

VETDSS for High School Students

Students will work with a range of companion and farm animals to learn important low stress handling skills as well as the foundations of animal care.
View Course

Online

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care online v2
Online

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Online)

  • Payment plans available

  • Online

  • Work Placement

  • 1 year

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

Develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to begin your career in the animal care industry, with the flexibility of online study. 

You’ll gain a strong foundation through online learning and hands-on experience via a self-organised workplace-based training placement.

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care health welfare v2
Health & Welfare

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health & Welfare)

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • Shenton Park & Ascot WA

  • 14 weeks

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

Gain hands-on experience in shelter and rescue environments and at the same time develop your skills in animal care and welfare.

You’ll enjoy a combination of practical training at the Dogs’ Refuge Home and the Cat Haven, along with classroom-based learning, to build a strong foundation in animal health, behaviour and welfare.

On-Campus

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care vet nurse pathway v2
Vet Nurse Pathway

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Vet Nurse Pathway)

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded

  • On-Campus

  • Ascot WA

  • 14 weeks

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Apply for Vet Nursing

You’ll focus on developing skills and knowledge to prepare to apply for our Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing or work as an Animal Attendant in a veterinary clinic.

You’ll enjoy a combination of hands-on practical training at our Ascot based Campus with real animals and classroom activities.

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care exhibited animals v2
Exhibited Animals

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Exhibited Animals)

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • Landsdale Farm WA

  • 7 months

  • Work as an Animal Carer in a range of environments

You’ll explore the world of animal care in a working farm environment at Landsdale Farm. 

If you aspire to work in animal care facilities such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, aquaria, tourism farms, farm stays or other environments where animals are cared for or exhibited, this is the course for you. 

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care vetdss v2
VETDSS

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (VETDSS)

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • Landsdale Farm, WA

  • 1 semester

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

If you’re a high school-aged student passionate about animals, this course is the perfect way to start your journey in the animal care industry.

Gain hands-on experience working with companion and farm animals at Landsdale Farm while completing your studies, making this the perfect starting point for a career in animal care. 

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care greencross internship Vet Nurse Program v2
Vet Nurse Internship

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Internship: Vet Nurse Program)

  • Payment plans available

  • Vet Clinic

  • Australia Wide

  • 6-12 months

  • Work as a Veterinary Assistant or Vet Nurse

This unique internship program with our industry partner, Greencross Vets, blends flexible online study.

You’ll learn fundamental skills such as handling and restraining animals, assisting with patient care, monitoring animal health, and supporting veterinary professionals in a clinical environment.

Jobs and Skills WA Funding Available

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care*

The following courses are eligible for applicants who qualify for the Jobs and Skills WA – Participation Program. Please visit each course page for detailed fees, funding and eligibility guidelines.

ACM20217 Certificate II in Horse Care

Online

Horse Care

Our 1 year Online Horse Care Course is perfect if you are looking to pursue a career in the equine industry, or seeking more experience and knowledge about caring for horses to safely care for your own horses.

Read More

Horse Care

It consists of easy to understand theory delivered online plus a practical component where you will practice and demonstrate your skills with horses.
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ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services

(previously ACM30117 Certificate III in Animal Studies)

Online

Animal Care Services Online

Our online course can be completed within 1 year. It is ideal for those who may have already gained some experience in the industry and are looking to consolidate their skills and knowledge with a nationally accredited qualification.

About Studying Online

Animal Care Services Online

This course also offers the next step in a pathway to those who have completed a Certificate II as well as a suitable pre-requisite for ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing.
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On-Site

RSPCA Program - Jobs and Skills WA Funded*

ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services is a 6 month certificate with work placement at the RSPCA WA. It provides an intensive option to obtain the qualification including practical training at the RSPCA and AVT.

About the RSPCA Program

RSPCA Program

This course is ideal if you do not want the hassle of organising your own work placement if you want to learn face-to-face from our qualified Trainers. Plus gain the amazing experience of working in a shelter environment.
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Online

qual overview avt acm30122 animal care services online v2
Online

ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services (Online)

  • Payment plans available

  • Online

  • Work Placement

  • 1 year

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

Build on your existing animal care skills and knowledge with the flexibility of online study, to prepare you for a rewarding career. 

You’ll gain valuable hands-on experience through workplace-based training, developing expertise in animal health, behaviour, nutrition and enrichment across a range of animal care settings.

On-Site

qual overview avt acm30122 animal care services rspca program v2
RSPCA Program

ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services (RSPCA Program)

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • RSPCA Malaga WA

  • 6 months

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

Through hands-on training at the RSPCA WA, you will gain skills in animal handling, behaviour assessment, enrichment and rehabilitation. 

Learn from industry professionals, work alongside the RSPCA behavioural team, and develop the expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in animal welfare.

Jobs and Skills WA Funding Available
ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services (RSPCA)*

Our ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services – RSPCA Program is eligible for applicants who qualify for the Jobs and Skills WA Participation Program. See full details including eligibility guidelines here >>

ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training

Blended

qual overview avt acm40322 animal behaviour and training v2
Behaviour and Training

ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training

  • Payment plans available

  • Blended Learning

  • Workshops in Perth

  • 1 year

  • Work as an Animal or Dog Trainer

Develop the skills to understand, influence, and train animal behaviour using modern, force-free, and scientifically backed methods. This course is designed by our own IMDT certified trainers with input from internationally recognised experts in animal training.

We combine flexible online learning with virtual training sessions and hands-on practical workshops based in Perth WA, providing you with the perfect balance of theory and real-world experience. 

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care health welfare
Health & Welfare

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health & Welfare)

  • Jobs & Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • Shenton Park WA

  • 14 weeks

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

You will explore the world of animal care in a working farm environment. 

This is the course for you if you aspire to work in animal care facilities such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, aquaria, tourism farms, farm stays or other environments where animals are cared for or exhibited.

Blended

Animal Behaviour and Training

If you love teaching people how to gain a better understanding and relationship with their dog and how to influence an animal's behaviour, look no further. This course is a 1 year course with a mix of online learning and practical training

About our Behaviour & Training Course

Animal Behaviour and Training

On completion of this course, you will gain a nationally recognised qualification and membership to the internationally renowned Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)
View Course

ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing**

On-Campus, Blended and Online

qual overview avt acm40418 veterinary nursing v2
Veterinary Nursing

ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing

  • Jobs and Skills WA Funded^

  • On-Campus, Blended, Online

  • Anywhere in Australia

  • 1.5 - 2 years

  • Become a qualified Vet Nurse

Become a qualified veterinary nurse and gain essential skills in patient care, surgical assistance, anaesthesia monitoring, radiography, and emergency nursing.  You will gain both hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge to succeed as a veterinary nurse.

Choose from three flexible study modes to suit your needs: Part-time On-campus in Perth, Blended Learning with Online Study and On-campus Workshops for WA students, or Online, allowing you to study from anywhere in Australia. 

On-Site

qual overview avt acm20121 animal care health welfare
Health & Welfare

ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health & Welfare)

  • Jobs & Skills WA Funded

  • On-site

  • Shenton Park WA

  • 14 weeks

  • Work as an Animal Carer or Animal Attendant

You will explore the world of animal care in a working farm environment. 

This is the course for you if you aspire to work in animal care facilities such as zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, aquaria, tourism farms, farm stays or other environments where animals are cared for or exhibited.

On-Site & Online

Veterinary Nursing

The Veterinary Nursing qualification is aimed at those who want a career as a veterinary nurse or those already working in veterinary care positions. We offer a variety of study modes including Online and On-campus options studying across 1.5 - 2 years.

About Vet Nursing

Veterinary Nursing

The role of a veterinary nurse is diverse, exciting, rewarding and one in which you will never stop learning. This certificate will introduce you to a range of skills and knowledge across several species of animals.
View Course

Lower Fees, Local Skills
ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing**

The ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing is part of the Lower fees, local skills initiative where you’ll only pay half the course fees. Fees are capped at $1,200 per year; or $400 if you’re aged 15—24 or eligible for a concession, plus resource fees and other fees that may apply to your course. See full details including terms and eligibility guidelines here >>

Vet Nuring course - government subsidised lower fees local skills
High school trainees - courses vet in schools with animals

Qualifications for high school leavers
and graduates

Depending on your level of experience with animals, the ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care and the ACM30122 Certificate II in Animal Care Services are great qualifications for students to start. 

To learn more about your options, visit our High School Graduates page. 

What Students Are Saying

Why choose AVT?

Dedicated Animal Care College

AVT has been delivering Vet Nursing and Animal Care related courses for over 25 years. It's safe to say there are no plumbing or hairdressing courses here!

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

Outstanding Track Record

A recent NCVER VET student outcomes report found 93% of AVT graduates were employed or enrolled in further study after training and 95% of graduates would recommend the training provided by AVT.

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

Safe and Supported Learning

Our qualified teaching team have many years of experience as well as extensive backgrounds in the veterinary and animal care industry. They're approachable and dedicated to helping students succeed.

*Funded places are subject to eligibility and availability.
The Student tuition fees are indicative only and are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment.
Additional fees may apply such as resource fees and other fees.

^Our part-time on-campus and blended learning study modes of the
ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing are eligible for Jobs and Skills WA funding.
There is currently no funding or concessions available for the online study mode. 

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