Animal Welfare and Veterinary Courses
There are lots of amazing careers working with animals in Australia — all you need is a nationally recognised qualification and you could be working at your local animal shelter, starting your own dog walking business, or training an Olympic dressage champion.
Browse the latest courses in horse care, animal grooming, equestrian sports, veterinary nursing, animal behaviour, and pet shop management. Whether you love fish, birds, or native wildlife — there is an animal career course here for you.
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Job Pathways
Here are some potential career pathways within animal welfare and veterinary. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Popular Animal Welfare and Veterinary Courses
There are 25 courses available for people who want a career in Animal Welfare and Veterinary.
ACM20121
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Wildlife Carer
Zoo Keeper
Animal Shelter Attendant
Kennel Attendant
Animal Attendant
Kennel Hand
Get started as an animal carer with the ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care. This nationally recognised training course qualifies you for support roles at animal shelters, kennels, pet shops, and wildlife centres. The course covers: feeding and watering animals, cleaning pens and enclosures, assisting with animal health care, communicating with co-workers, keeping safe at work, assisting with animal enrichment and welfare, providing animal first aid, basic grooming, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, animal care career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
SIS30521
Online
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Possible job outcomes:
Horse Riding Instructor
The Certificate III in Sport Coaching (Equestrian) is designed to equip individuals with the essential knowledge and skills to excel in equestrian coaching. Participants will gain expertise in horse training, rider development, and coaching techniques. Upon completion, you will have the skills to foster a deep understanding of equestrian sports to others, enabling them to pursue rewarding careers in the field..
Average duration: 6 months.
ACM20221
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Stable Hand
Get the skills you need to handle horses safely with the ACM20221 Certificate II in Horse Care. This nationally recognised certificate is the qualification you need to get started in the equine industry. You’ll gain foundational riding skills as well as essentials in horse care, feeding, grooming, exercising, loading and transporting. There is also scope to learn stock and farming skills. Enquire now for the full list of study units, specialisation electives (and their availability), and enrolment opportunities near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
SIS50321
Online
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Possible job outcomes:
Horse Riding Instructor
The Diploma of Sport (Equestrian Coaching) is a comprehensive program focusing on advanced coaching techniques, equine physiology, and effective communication strategies. Graduates will be well-equipped to excel in the dynamic field of equestrian coaching, enhancing their skills in training both riders and horses..
Average duration: 24 months.
RGR10118
Online
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Possible job outcomes:
Stable Hand
If you want to work in the Australian horse racing industry try the RGR10118 Certificate I in Racing. This nationally recognised qualification teaches you the fundamentals of horse behaviour, horse handling, and stable safety. By the end of this 6 month course you will be able to catch and handle quiet horses (under supervision) and perform basic stable duties.
Enquire now for the latest opportunities for enrolment and the list of study units..
Average duration: 6 months.
SIS40321
Online
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Possible job outcomes:
Horse Riding Instructor
Become a skilled equestrian coach with the Certificate IV in Sport Coaching (Equestrian). This hands-on program teaches you essential horse riding and coaching techniques, preparing you to lead and inspire in the exciting realm of equestrian sports..
Average duration: 18 months.
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Nutritionist
Animal Scientist
Wildlife Management Officer
Research Scientist
Livestock Manager
The Bachelor of Animal Science enhances understanding and skills in animal production, management, and welfare, encompassing both domestic and wildlife species. This course opens pathways to various careers across Australia and globally, including animal production enterprises, ancillary industries, educational or advisory roles, research laboratories, fieldwork, and management and conservation in diverse habitats and organisations. It prepares students for a multitude of opportunities in the animal science field, catering to a broad range of interests and career goals.
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Average duration: 42 months.
On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Wildlife Management Officer
Wildlife Officer
Animal Welfare Officer
Animal Control Officer
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal Management Officer
Animal Behaviourist
Zoo Keeper
The Bachelor of Science (Animal Behaviour) offers an understanding of the societal and ethical contexts of conservation biology, animal behaviour, and animal welfare. This degree provides training in retrieving, analysing, and evaluating information pertinent to animal behaviour. It also focuses on effectively communicating this information to diverse audiences. This course is ideal for those seeking to gain comprehensive knowledge and skills in animal behaviour within the broader framework of conservation and ethical considerations.
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Average duration: 3 years.
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Animal Technician
Veterinary Technician
Veterinary Technologist
The Bachelor of Veterinary Technology covers fundamental sciences, including chemistry, biochemistry, and mathematics, alongside animal handling, care, welfare, and behaviour. The course delves into applied and clinical nutrition, animal disease mechanisms, and diagnostic techniques. It also includes studies in small and large animal health, therapeutics, surgical and medical nursing principles, and veterinary practice management. This degree equips students with both theoretical and practical skills necessary for a fulfilling career as a para-veterinary healthcare specialist in animal health and welfare.
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Average duration: 3 years.
On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Veterinarian
Specialist Veterinarian
Wildlife Veterinarian
Veterinary Pathologist
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine offers comprehensive training in animal health and welfare, equipping students with the skills needed for a career in veterinary medicine. This course covers a wide range of topics, including animal anatomy, physiology, disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Students gain practical experience in animal care through clinical placements. Designed for those passionate about animal health, this degree prepares graduates for various roles in veterinary practice, research, and public health, ensuring they are ready to make a significant impact in the field of veterinary science.
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Average duration: 4 years.
On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Veterinarian
Specialist Veterinarian
Wildlife Veterinarian
Veterinary Pathologist
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine offers comprehensive training in animal health and welfare, equipping students with the skills needed for a career in veterinary medicine. This course covers a wide range of topics, including animal anatomy, physiology, disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Students gain practical experience in animal care through clinical placements. Designed for those passionate about animal health, this degree prepares graduates for various roles in veterinary practice, research, and public health, ensuring they are ready to make a significant impact in the field of veterinary science.
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Average duration: 4 years.
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Wildlife Conservator
Animal Management Officer
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal Control Officer
Wildlife Management Officer
Environmental Manager
Toxicologist
Plant Scientist
Palaeontologist
Research and Development Manager
Geobiologist
Geospatial Scientist
The Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Animal Science) offers an in-depth exploration of animal biology, physiology, and behaviour. Students will gain comprehensive knowledge of animal health, genetics, and nutrition, underpinning sustainable and humane animal management practices. Through rigorous academic study and hands-on research opportunities, this course prepares graduates for careers in animal-related industries, research, or further academic pursuits, ensuring a holistic understanding of animal systems and welfare..
Average duration: 12 months.
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Animal Nutritionist
Animal Welfare Officer
Wildlife Management Officer
Research Scientist
Agribusiness Manager
Farmer
Animal Control Officer
Animal Shelter Manager
Animal Management Officer
Life Scientist
Quarantine Officer
The Bachelor of Science (Animal Science) provides an in-depth understanding of animal behaviour, health, welfare, nutrition, production, reproduction, and human-animal interactions. Students gain hands-on experience with diverse animal facilities, from reptiles and native mammals to sheep and cattle, and collaboration with wildlife parks, zoos, and farms. As human-animal interactions grow, especially in companionship and food production, graduates are poised for diverse careers including animal welfare officer, life scientist, quarantine officer, and roles in research, teaching, and government sectors..
Average duration: 3 years.
On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Park Ranger
Farm Manager
Wildlife Management Officer
Conservationist
Wildlife Rehabilitator
Animal Scientist
The Bachelor of Science (Animal Biology) delves into the study of terrestrial, avian, and aquatic animals. It examines their chemical and physical compositions, evolution, behaviour, physiology, ecology, and biodiversity. With an estimated 1-2 million animal species, only a fraction are known. This degree emphasizes the vast diversity of animal life and its implications for agriculture, conservation, veterinary science, education, and public policy. Students engage in both field and laboratory learning, focusing on global challenges and human impact on animal futures..
Average duration: 3 years.
ACM30821
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Stable Hand
Track Rider
Horse Trainer
Get a job caring for horses with the ACM30821 Certificate III in Horse Care. This nationally recognised certificate qualifies you for a number of roles including farm hand, horse groom, stud hand, and stablehand. Competencies include: handling horses safely, loading and unloading horses, preparing horses for an event, maintaining the health of horses, first aid and emergency care for horses, equine workplace essentials, and much more. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, equine career outcomes, and training providers near you that offer this course..
Average duration: 12 months.
On Campus
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Veterinarian
Become a qualified vet with the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours). This scientific degree program introduces you to veterinary medicine and teaches you how to diagnose and treat a wide range of domestic animals, pets, and native species.
Depending on your chosen university your studies include a clinical placement and you’ll graduate ready to practice veterinary medicine in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
Enquire now for the list of admissions criteria, study units, and universities that offer the Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)..
Average duration: 36 months.
RGR30218
Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Stable Hand
Become a professional stable hand with the RGR30218 Certificate III in Racing (Stablehand). This nationally recognised certificate qualifies you for roles in either harness racing or thoroughbred horse racing. The course is hands-on and you will learn how to handle racehorses in the stables and at trackwork. The course also covers: following instructions from the trainer, overseeing the safe transporting of horses, identifying issues with a horse’s fitness and race suitability, equine first aid, and much more..
Average duration: 24 months.
RGR30619
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Horse Breeding Assistant
Get started in the horse breeding sector as a stud groomer with the RGR30619 Certificate III in Horse Breeding. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to handle horses safely across a range of stable, trackwork, and breeding scenarios. The course covers: on-the-job safety, horse biosecurity and infection controls, carrying out natural mare mating procedures, assisting with artificial insemination, caring for broodmares, foaling down mares, understanding horse behaviour, caring for young horses, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, horse breeding competencies, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 18 months.
ACM30321
Online, On Campus, Distance
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Possible job outcomes:
Zoo Keeper
Wildlife Carer
Zoologist
Want to work at the zoo or wildlife sanctuary? The Certificate ACM30321 III in Wildlife and Exhibited Animal Care is a pathway to professional and volunteer work as a zoo keeper. Your course begins with an introduction to the safety and biosecurity requirements when working with wild animals. You’ll then learn how to feed and care for the animals, including enrichment activities, capture, restraint, transfer, and monitoring. Enquire now for the full list of zookeeping career competencies and available course openings in your area..
Average duration: 12 months.
ACM30122
Online, On Campus, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Pet Groomer
Animal Attendant
Kennel Attendant
Get a job at a pet shop, rescue shelter, or grooming organisation with the ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services. This nationally recognised qualification allows you to choose specialist electives in animal care and welfare, pet grooming, or customer service. Career competencies include: understanding animal behaviour, interacting safely with animals, providing basic animal first aid, communicating with clients and your work team, staying safe at work, ensuring the health and wellbeing of animals in care. Enquire now for the list of study units, animal care career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment opportunities in your region..
Average duration: 6 months.
ACM50119
On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Animal Technician
The ACM50119 Diploma of Animal Technology is for senior technicians and supervisors at animal research centres or laboratories. Over 12-18 months of training you will learn how to safely perform a range of procedures on research animals including anaesthesia, scientific surgery, embryo collection, euthanasia, and non-surgical procedures. The course also covers: laboratory safety, animal enrichment and wellbeing, microscope work, and infection controls. Enquire now for the list of study units, entry requirements, and enrolment opportunities near you..
Average duration: 18 months.
22513VIC
Online, On Campus
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Possible job outcomes:
Stable Hand
Trainee Farrier
If you want to work with horses you need the 22513VIC Certificate III in Equine Studies. This nationally recognised qualification will improve your knowledge of horse behaviour, and teach you how to work safely in a range of industries with horses. The course covers: horse handling, equine anatomy and physiology, horse feeding, pregnancy, health and welfare practices. Enquire now for the full list of study units, elective options, and enrolment centres near you. .
Average duration: 24 months.
ACM40418
Online, On Campus, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Equine Veterinary Nurse
Veterinary Nurse
Become a qualified veterinary nurse with the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418). This hands-on training course teaches you how to assist a vet during animal surgery, prepare for anaesthesia, then nurse and monitor the animals through their recovery. The course also covers: vet clinic routines and infection controls, veterinary drugs and poisons, animal nutrition and wellbeing. To graduate from this nationally recognised training course you must complete 240 hours of work placement.Enquire now for the latest enrolment opportunities and for more details about securing a work placement..
Average duration: 12 months.
ACM40818
Online, On Campus, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Farrier
Turn your love of horses into a professional career with the ACM40818 Certificate IV in Farriery. During 3 years of practical training, this nationally recognised training course will teach you how to safely administer a full range of hoof care and horseshoeing services — plus give you the business skills you need to setup your own farrier service micro-business. The course covers: horse handling, horseshoe construction, welding, hoof trimming — and business skills related to tax, insurance and financial management of an Australian micro-business.
Enquire now for a list of study units and training dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
RGR30518
On Campus, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Track Rider
Get started in the horse racing industry as a track work rider with the RGR30518 Certificate III in Racing (Trackwork Rider). This nationally recognised qualification will help you develop the high-level riding skills you need to exercise thoroughbred racehorses at varying paces. The course also covers: racing industry ethics and integrity, personal health and fitness for working with horses, attending horses at race meetings and trials, handling horses in the stables, horse behaviour knowledge. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, graduation competencies, and enrolment centres near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
RGR40118
Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Horse Trainer
Become a professional horse trainer working in the Australian racing industry with the RGR40118 Certificate IV in Racing (Racehorse Trainer). This nationally recognised qualification builds on your existing skills and experience, and teaches you how to supervise the handling of horses, manage horse welfare, and run a horse training business. The course also covers: selecting horses for different riders and handlers, applying knowledge of horse behaviour, managing equine biosecurity and infection controls, business administration and marketing skills. The course has scope to specialise in either horse racing or pacing. Enquire now for the full list of study units, graduation outcomes, and enrolment centres near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
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Courses by Location
Learn more about animal welfare and veterinary courses in your area.