Course Summary

This qualification describes the skills and knowledge for entry level and support roles in the animal care and management industry, where workers provide care for animals in workplaces such as animal shelters, boarding/day care facilities, sanctuaries and veterinary clinics. The work activities are routine, performed under supervision and within clearly defined guidelines.

Entry Requirements

Important note for Year 12 students: Year 12 students should not undertake this course expecting to receive the full QCE points as the duration of the course exceeds the school year learning period.  These students should enter the course with an understanding that they may only complete up to nine (9) units during their school year. Once a student graduates from high school their eligibility for funding changes and they will be required to have their funding eligibility reassessed if they wish to continue study in this course. 

CQUniversity entry requirements:

• Prior to admission, students are to engage with their local area Animal Industry Care providers to find suitable work placement
• Important information related to Vocational Placement can be found in this document link Vocational Placement Host Employer Pack
• As part of the application process, students must upload a copy of the signed Vocational Placement Agreement (see linked document above, pages 7 and 8)

Students are also required to:

• Complete the bksb (Basic key Skills Builder) online literacy and numeracy assessment prior to enrolment unless they have completed an equal or higher-level course.
• Have reasonable reading and writing skills, as well as basic numeracy skills to complete workbooks, assignments, learning activities and assessment tasks.
• Access a computer / tablet / smartphone with internet access, camera, microphone and speakers.
• Access Microsoft Teams, to attend weekly Microsoft Team tutorials.
• Use Microsoft Teams for online assessment components.
• Handle live animals and require a reasonable level of physical fitness to be able to complete the practical components of the course.

Please note: Students may be exposed to injured/deceased animals in photo and video footage during the online learning and may be required to handle them during their work placement.

Vocational Placement and Work Integrated Learning

Students must complete a Vocational Placement and/or Work Integrated Learning as part of this qualification.

Additional information

Students who are not already working in the industry will be required to undertake work experience in a relevant field, to complete their practical assessment. Co-assessments with a CQUniversity approved supervisor is required.

Course Details

Admission Codes

Student Outcomes, Career Opportunities and Occupations

Students completing ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care can enter the workforce in a supervised role as a Kennel Hand, Pet Shop Assistant, Animal Attendant or similar role.