SHERIDAN COLLEGE · CANADA
Animal Care - Ontario College Certificate
Certificate · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Certificate
Level
- 1 yearProgram Duration
- Davis Campus, BramptonLocation
- 2-week field placementPractical Experience
- Accredited Animal CentreFacility Standard
- PGWP-alignedPost-Graduation Work Permit Eligibility
This one-year Ontario College Certificate program provides comprehensive training for a career in animal care. You will gain the practical skills needed to work in various animal facilities, including veterinary clinics, shelters, grooming businesses, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and zoos. The program is ideal for individuals with a genuine interest in animals, who are patient, conscientious, detail-oriented, and motivated. You will study essential subjects such as animal anatomy, nutrition, domestic and exotic animal science, grooming, and nursing procedures. Hands-on experience with live animals under supervision will allow you to practice handling, restraint techniques, husbandry, feeding, and simulation exercises. A key component of the program is a mandatory two-week field placement at an animal facility, offering valuable real-world experience and observation of animal care practices. The Sheridan Animal Centre, where many lab activities take place, is accredited by the Canadian Council on Animal Care with a Good Animal Practice Certification.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to provide a foundational understanding and practical skills in animal care. It includes a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application across two semesters.
- Semester 1
- Animal Nursing FundamentalsNURS 10261
- Domestic Animal ScienceSCIE 13636
- Animal Anatomy & PhysiologyANAT 14717
- Introduction to Animal GroomingSCIE 10040
- Animal Centre DutySCIE 18823
- Essential Communication SkillsCOMM 19999
- General Elective (Intensive or distance)
- Semester 2
- Clinical OperationsSCIE 16529
- Animal WellnessSCIE 25142
- Exotic Animal ScienceSCIE 10009
- Animal Facility ManagementSCIE 18634
- Animal Care Field PlacementFLPL 14444
- Animal Ethics and WelfarePHIL 13672
- Animal GroomingSCIE 26529
- Wildlife ManagementSCIE 10681
Careers
This program prepares you for a variety of roles in the animal care industry.
- Veterinary clinics
- Shelters
- Grooming businesses
- Wildlife rehabilitation facilities
- Dog daycare facilities
- Pet shops
- Zoos
- Other animal facilities
Entry requirements
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalentIncludes one English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or ENG4U).
English Proficiency RequirementsMust be met if English is not your first language.
Applicants missing requirements may apply as a mature student (19+ years old) and may need to complete assessments or preparatory courses. A strong background in sciences and math is recommended. Prior experience in animal care is also strongly recommended. Pre-exposure rabies immunization is highly recommended and proof will be required before field placement.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the official Sheridan College website for current international tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the official Sheridan College website for current domestic tuition fees.
LivingAdditional costs for laboratory supplies, textbooks, lab coat and surgical scrubs are estimated at $400–$600 CAD per year.
Students should expect to spend an additional 15-20 hours per week on assignments outside of regularly scheduled classes.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for the Animal Care program. Specific requirements for international applicants can be found on the Sheridan College website.
2. Submit ApplicationApply through the Ontario Colleges Application Service (OCAS) or the designated portal for international students. Be prepared to provide academic transcripts and other relevant documents.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsProvide official transcripts, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS scores), and any other required documentation as per Sheridan College's international admissions guidelines.
4. Receive Offer of AdmissionIf your application is successful, you will receive an Offer of Admission from Sheridan College.
5. Accept Offer and Pay DepositFollow the instructions in your offer letter to accept the offer and pay any required tuition deposit.
6. Apply for Study PermitOnce you have your Letter of Acceptance, apply for a Canadian Study Permit from your local visa office.
7. Prepare for ArrivalArrange accommodation, health insurance, and prepare for your journey to Canada. Attend any pre-departure orientations offered by the college.
Scholarships
Academic AwardsVaries
Accreditation
The Sheridan Animal Centre is accredited by the Canadian Council on Animal Care with a Good Animal Practice Certification (GAP).