Animal Care (Associate’s Degree)

The Becker College associate of science degree in animal care provides students with the practical components of animal care and management and the husbandry of the healthy companion animal. Careers in animal care and management can be found in a number of industries—from government to agriculture, zoos to veterinary offices.

Through course work and hands-on practical training, students will learn correct kennel management procedures; evaluate and modify canine behavior; perform basic grooming skills; and demonstrate proper health, safety, and nutritional practices for companion animals. Students will also be trained in the health maintenance and care of laboratory animals.

Students will learn not only through textbooks, but also at the Becker College Lenfest Animal Health Center, which houses a modern, on-campus veterinary clinic that sees hundreds of patients annually. Becker College also uses several outreach programs, including trips to animal shelters and boarding kennels. Students will benefit from ongoing interaction with experienced professors who support, mentor, and guide them in the process of helping them find their niche in the rapidly expanding and diverse animal care field.

To learn more about the Becker College associate of science degree in animal care, call 877.523.2537 or email admissions@becker.edu.

Learning Outcomes:

Students will demonstrate knowledge of and application of the proper management and husbandry, breeding and reproduction, proper nutrition, and applied animal behavior of a variety of species.

Students will demonstrate written and oral communication skills appropriate for the animal care field.

Students will demonstrate decision-making and personal conduct consistent with the professional standards of the animal care field.

Special Requirements:

All full and part-time students are required to demonstrate proof of medical insurance, a tetanus booster within the last ten (10) years, and a tuberculosis test within one (1) year to participate in animal laboratories, veterinary clinic rotations, and career externship. Rabies pre-exposure prophylaxis immunization is highly recommended. Students are required to either show proof of rabies immunization or sign a declination form. Students must be able to lift 50 pounds and be able to demonstrate the physical capabilities to work closely and safely with animals of all sizes. Students with limitations to movement, sight or hearing may find it difficult to meet all course requirements. For the health and safety of students appropriate attire will be addressed in all classes with laboratories.

« Back to Departments & Programs

• 

  Curriculum

  View the curriculum for Becker College’s animal studies program: animal care (associate's degree).

  Learn more about the animal science curriculum at Becker
• 

  FAQs

  Find out more about our program through Frequently Asked Questions. For more information, you can also contact the Office of Admissions or our faculty and staff.

  View frequently asked questions for animal science
• 

  Faculty and Staff

  Our faculty and staff are focused on fulfilling the mission of Becker College and delivering to each student personal attention, academic excellence, and a vibrant campus experience.

  Learn more about the animal science faculty and staff
• 

  Apply Now.

  Get all the information you need about deadlines and how to submit your application.

  Learn more about applying to Becker College