Kick start your career with animals with this entry-level course that will give you the skills to work as an animal attendant or trainer.
ACM30117 Certificate III in Animal Studies
Subsidised | $650 - $4,240 |
Concession | $650 - $3,660 |
Full fee | $4,755 - $6,950 |
JobTrainer | $0 |
International | $8,500 |
Start your career working with animals with this entry-level course. This qualification will give you the skills you need to work as an animal attendant or trainer. It is also the perfect foundation course for people looking to move into specialised streams in the field.
According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, the number of people working as animal attendants and trainers is expected to grow strongly in the future. There are likely to be around 12,000 job openings in this growing occupation over the next five years.
This course will give you broad skills in basic care and the capture, handling and transportation of companion animals, as well as specialised skills in either behavioural sciences or veterinary nursing. Our passionate team of industry professionals are the best in the business and will give you the one-on-one guidance you need to succeed in your studies.
Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as an animal trainer or health officer, or trainee veterinary nurse. It will also give you the knowledge required to complete further studies in the field.
This course is eligible for JobTrainer funding, meaning it could be free for eligible school-leavers, young people and job seekers looking to develop new skills. Training is proudly delivered by TAFE Queensland and jointly funded by the Australian Government and Queensland Government. Learn more >
As part of your course, you get valuable experience in real workplaces. Our strong partnerships mean you will use the skills you are learning to care for animals in different settings within your community, while also getting to know potential future employers.
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 5 elective units from the list below.
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
ACMGAS202Participate in workplace communicationsUnit code: ACMGAS202 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of effectively participating in workplace communications in an animal care and management environment. |
Participate in workplace communications | |
ACMGAS203Complete animal care hygiene routinesUnit code: ACMGAS203 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the responsibilities and procedures required to provide daily care of animals, including the cleaning of animal housing and grooming or cleaning of animals under supervision. |
Complete animal care hygiene routines | |
ACMGAS301Maintain and monitor animal health and wellbeingUnit code: ACMGAS301 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of following animal health management practices to monitor animal health via daily observations of behaviour and condition. |
Maintain and monitor animal health and wellbeing | |
ACMGAS303Plan for and provide nutritional requirements for animalsUnit code: ACMGAS303 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of calculating rations based on animal species needs and availability of feedstuffs. |
Plan for and provide nutritional requirements for animals | |
ACMINF301Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care workUnit code: ACMINF301 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process required to comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care workplaces and relevant field locations. |
Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care work | |
ACMSUS201Participate in environmentally sustainable work practicesUnit code: ACMSUS201 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process required to measure current resource use effectively and to carry out improvements, including those that will reduce the negative environment impacts of work practices. |
Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices | |
ACMWHS301Contribute to workplace health and safety processesUnit code: ACMWHS301 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process required by an employee to contribute to workplace health and safety processes where there is responsibility for own work outputs and possibly limited responsibility for the work output of others. |
Contribute to workplace health and safety processes |
UNIT CODE | UNIT NAME | |
---|---|---|
Greater Brisbane - Behaviour stream | ||
ACMCAS304Capture, handle and transport companion animalsUnit code: ACMCAS304 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of capturing, handling and transporting companion animals. |
Capture, handle and transport companion animals | |
ACMCAS307Provide companion animal hydro-bathing servicesUnit code: ACMCAS307 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of providing hydro-bathing services for companion animals following industry recognised bathing procedures. |
Provide companion animal hydro-bathing services | |
ACMGAS302Provide enrichment for animalsUnit code: ACMGAS302 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of providing behavioural management and enrichment to stimulate, replenish and maintain appropriate behavioural patterns of animals. |
Provide enrichment for animals | |
ACMGAS306Assist with conditioning animalsUnit code: ACMGAS306 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of conditioning animals in order to modify their behaviour through assisting with formulating and demonstrating a conditioning plan based on operant conditioning techniques. |
Assist with conditioning animals | |
ACMSPE304Provide basic care of domestic dogsUnit code: ACMSPE304 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of identifying dogs and their behavioural and physical needs, providing daily care requirements, assisting with behavioural requirements and basic preventative health measures. |
Provide basic care of domestic dogs | |
Greater Brisbane - Veterinary Nursing stream | ||
ACMGAS308Communicate effectively with clients and team membersUnit code: ACMGAS308 |
Communicate effectively with clients and team members | |
ACMSPE305Provide basic care of domestic catsUnit code: ACMSPE305 |
Provide basic care of domestic cats | |
ACMSPE304Provide basic care of domestic dogsUnit code: ACMSPE304 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of identifying dogs and their behavioural and physical needs, providing daily care requirements, assisting with behavioural requirements and basic preventative health measures. |
Provide basic care of domestic dogs | |
ACMGAS307Identify animal anatomy and physiology for animal care workUnit code: ACMGAS307 |
Identify animal anatomy and physiology for animal care work | |
ACMVET202Carry out daily clinic routinesUnit code: ACMVET202 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of treating patients (animals) on a daily basis, maintaining clinic hygiene and assisting with inventory and clinic security. |
Carry out daily clinic routines | |
Gold Coast and International | ||
ACMGAS307Identify animal anatomy and physiology for animal care workUnit code: ACMGAS307 |
Identify animal anatomy and physiology for animal care work | |
ACMGAS308Communicate effectively with clients and team membersUnit code: ACMGAS308 |
Communicate effectively with clients and team members | |
ACMSPE304Provide basic care of domestic dogsUnit code: ACMSPE304 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of identifying dogs and their behavioural and physical needs, providing daily care requirements, assisting with behavioural requirements and basic preventative health measures. |
Provide basic care of domestic dogs | |
ACMSPE305Provide basic care of domestic catsUnit code: ACMSPE305 |
Provide basic care of domestic cats | |
ACMVET202Carry out daily clinic routinesUnit code: ACMVET202 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of treating patients (animals) on a daily basis, maintaining clinic hygiene and assisting with inventory and clinic security. |
Carry out daily clinic routines | |
Darling Downs and South West | ||
ACMGAS207Provide reception services for an animal care facilityUnit code: ACMGAS207 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of coordinating client (animal owner) appointments or bookings and undertaking office administration and basic financial tasks for an animal care facility. |
Provide reception services for an animal care facility | |
ACMSPE302Provide basic care of birdsUnit code: ACMSPE302 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of identifying birds and their behavioural and physical needs, providing daily care requirements, assisting with behavioural requirements and basic preventative health measures. |
Provide basic care of birds | |
ACMSPE304Provide basic care of domestic dogsUnit code: ACMSPE304 Unit description: This unit of competency covers the process of identifying dogs and their behavioural and physical needs, providing daily care requirements, assisting with behavioural requirements and basic preventative health measures. |
Provide basic care of domestic dogs | |
BSBINM301Organise workplace informationUnit code: BSBINM301 Unit description: This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to gather, organise and apply workplace information in the context of an organisation's work processes and knowledge management systems. |
Organise workplace information | |
HLTAID003Provide first aidUnit code: HLTAID003 Unit description: This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty. The unit applies to all workers who may be required to provide a first aid response in a range of situations, include community and workplace settings. |
Provide first aid |
Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.
Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Loganlea | 24 January 2022 | 9 months | Veterinary Nursing stream: Full time 3 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Loganlea | 24 January 2022 | 6 months | Behaviour stream: Full time 3 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Grovely | 24 January 2022 | 9 months | Veterinary Nursing stream: Full time 3 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Grovely | 24 January 2022 | 6 months | Behaviour stream: Full time 3 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ashmore | 20 April 2021 | 6 months | Full time 2 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Coomera | 27 April 2021 | 9 months | Full time - 1 day per week at Dreamworld and one day per week at Coomera Monday, Tuesday |
Mixed mode | Full fee: $6,950 Subsidised: $4,240 Concession: $3,660 |
Ashmore | 14 July 2021 | 6 months | Full time 2 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Ashmore | 06 October 2021 | 6 months | Full time 2 days per week | Mixed mode | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 JobTrainer: $0 |
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Toowoomba | 24 January 2022 | 1 year | Class full - 1 day per week | Classroom | Full fee: $4,755 Subsidised: $650 Concession: $650 |
Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.
As an international student at TAFE Queensland you'll gain hands-on experience in our modern classrooms, laboratories and workshops using state-of-the-art facilities and the same tools and equipment used in industry.
Get the internationally-recognised qualification you need to launch your career while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle.
No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.
Campus | START DATES
![]() When your course is scheduled to begin |
Duration | WORKLOAD
![]() How much time you will need to commit to successfully complete your course, combining face-to-face and self-directed study and any required placements. |
STUDY MODE
![]() Also known as delivery mode, this is how your training is delivered. Learn more |
COST
![]() The cost of your course may vary, depending on your eligibility for funding, subsidies or concessions. See the payment options section for more information. Learn more |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ashmore | 19 April 2021 | 6 months | Full time | Mixed mode | International: $8,500 |
Southport | 12 July 2021 | 6 months | Full time | Mixed mode | International: $8,500 |
Southport | 05 October 2021 | 6 months | Full time | Mixed mode | International: $8,500 |
Southport | 24 January 2022 | 6 months | Full time | Mixed mode | International: $8,500 |
As an international student you’ll study face-to-face in a classroom with other international and Australian students at one of our campus locations.
In addition to your scheduled class hours you will be expected to complete additional study in your own time.
The course cost indicated is for students on an international student visa. If you’re visiting Australia on a non-student visa (e.g. partner visa, working holiday, employer sponsor etc.) please contact us directly for the price applicable to you.
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathwaysNo matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what's right for you, get in touch. We're here to help.
This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.
If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.
Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Western Union Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Western Union and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
This qualification has no formal entry requirements however TAFE Queensland requires the following:
Greater Brisbane
Due to the high volume of applicants wishing to undertake this program (Behaviour and Vet Nursing streams). Greater Brisbane has introduced a selection criteria ranking process which requires all applicants to undertake a Basic Key Skills Builder (bksb) maths and English assessment to determine their current level of literacy and numeracy. Applicants who receive an Exit Level 2 Working at Level 3 score (or higher) on the bksb will receive a higher ranking than students with a lower score. The bksb identifies any areas you may need additional support to achieve your goals and ensure you have the right skills and support to be successful in your course.
International Students
The following Selection criteria requirements apply only to International Students:
Students should be a minimum of 18 years of age. Student visa applicants under the age of 18 will be accepted where they demonstrate that they will be accompanied by a parent, legal custodian or a suitable relative who is aged 21 or over. This arrangement requires the approval of the Department of Home Affairs. For more information visit Department of Home Affairs - Welfare Requirements for Student Visa Applicants under 18.
It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Flash Player. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.
You may be required to undertake pre-reading or purchase textbooks. If this applies, you will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.
You may also be required to purchase uniform items, including TAFE Queensland branded items. These details will be provided after enrolment or during orientation. The purchase of these uniform items may incur additional costs up to the value of $80.00.
You must have the required Animal Studies shirt prior to attending Work Experience (including the AWL, RSPCA), or you will unable to participate.
Working in certain jobs increases your exposure to some vaccine-preventable diseases. The National Health and Medical Research Council recommends the following vaccinations in line with the Queensland Government’s occupational immunisations for veterinary students;
Please note: Vaccination and serology evidence requirements may alter during your studies in accordance with changes to industry requirements and/or Australian Immunisation Guidelines. For further information please contact TAFE Queensland.
Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.
Disclaimer
All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.
If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.
International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more
Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. Getting recognition for the skills you've gained from the workplace or previous learning means less study time for you, and getting the paper to prove you're qualified a whole lot sooner. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.
If you have read and understood the student rules, refund policy, understand your fees and payment options, have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) and checked you meet the entry requirements and selection criteria for this course, you're ready to get started.
If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.
Learn more about university pathways