Animal behaviour is a fascinating field, whether you own pets or work in a voluntary or professional capacity. It’s also an important study area for animal enthusiasts or professionals working with animals, as managing animals is safer when you understand them.
The Certificate of Animal Behaviour explores the scientific principles behind why animals behave as they do, focusing on natural instincts, learned behaviours, and interactions with humans and other species.
In this animal behaviour course, you will discover behavioural ecology, ethology, and animal psychology, with an emphasis on ethical animal care and welfare.
You will also study biological factors influencing behaviour, such as the nervous system, hormones, and genetics, and how they interact with environmental and social elements. You will also learn about animal training, classical and operant conditioning, and communication methods used by animals.
You will explore animal social structures and behaviours, including those of dogs, cats, horses, and exotic species. You will learn strategies for addressing stress and anxiety and the impact of human activity on animal behaviour, including domestication and environmental changes, along with ethical and conservation concerns.
On completion of this course, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to enhance animal welfare and promote positive human-animal interactions.
Course Structure
Unit - Animal Behaviour
Unit 1 – Introduction to Animal Behaviour
- Introduction to animal behaviour studies
- Ethology
- Behavioural ecology
- Animal psychology
- Evolutionary basis of behaviour
- Natural selection and behaviour
- Adaptation and fitness
- Innate versus learned behaviour
- Behavioural strategies
- Animal welfare
- Human-animal relationships
Unit 2 – Biology and Physiology of Behaviour
- Anatomy of the nervous system
- Anatomy and behaviour
- Autonomic nervous system
- Hormonal influences on behaviour
- Genetics and inherited traits
- Understanding sensory perception in animals
Unit 3 – Learning and Behavioural Conditioning
- Theories of learning
- Classical conditioning
- Operant conditioning
- Social learning
- Modelling
- Habituation
- Desensitisation
- Counterconditioning
- Applications in animal training and rehabilitation
Unit 4 – Communication in Animals
- Animal communication
- Visual communication
- Auditory communication
- Chemical communication
- Tactile communication
- Communication in social structures
- Communication in mating
- Miscommunication and its behavioural implications
- Human-animal communication
Unit 5 – Social Structures and Group Behaviour
- Pack, herd and flock dynamics
- Pack dynamics
- Herd dynamics
- Flock dynamics
- Comparing social structures
- Social hierarchies
- Dominance behaviours
- Cooperative behaviours
- Symbiosis
- Wolves, primates, and social birds
Unit 6 – Behaviour Across Different Species
- Behavioural characteristics of dogs
- Behavioural characteristics of cats
- Behavioural characteristics of horses
- Understanding wildlife behaviour
- Unique behaviours in birds
- Unique behaviours in reptiles
- Unique behaviours in amphibians
- Adapting knowledge for exotic pets
Unit 7 – Problematic Behaviours and Solutions
- Identifying causes of behavioural issues
- Signs of behavioural issues
- Steps to identify causes of behavioural issues
- Common behavioural issues
- Stress, anxiety, and fear in animals
- Strategies for behavioural modification
- Working with professionals
Unit 8 – Human Impacts on Animal Behaviour
- Effects of domestication on behaviour
- Behavioural trade-offs of domestication
- Domestication in specific species
- History of dogs
- Influence of environment and captivity
- Ethics of working with animals
- Ethical challenges
- Ethical frameworks
- Conservation and wildlife behaviour
Study Hours
Estimated duration 40 Hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% Online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Printed Materials – Free to Print
Course materials for this program are available to print at no extra cost.
Testimonials
I found the course very easy to access and navigate. I enjoyed the content and the support was always there. I did this course purely as an interest that I have and it was perfect for what I wanted to achieve. Thank you.
Jennifer | Rathdowney, QLD | Certificate of Animal Behaviour
Was amazing and highly recommended this course!
K. McCarthy, Mareeba, QLD | Certificate of Animal Behaviour
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience studying with AOC. Time frame for completion was very generous, notes for the course were comprehensive
D. Granger, Greenvale, VIC | Certificate of Animal Behaviour
The lesson plans were comprehensive and informative, and I enjoyed attempting the assignments and self-assessments.
S. Upendra, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India | Certificate of Animal Behaviour
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
- Kennel Workers
- Pet Shop Assistants
- Farm Workers
- Animal Charity Workers
- Veterinary Assistants
- Animal Psychologists
- Animal Trainers
- Dog Groomers
- Park Rangers
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