University of New England offering animal behavior certification course

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The University of New England (UNE) Online College of Professional Studies announced its upcoming 6-week virtual Animal Behavior Professional Certificate course. The course will start in September and educate pet owners, aspiring veterinary professionals, animal enthusiast, and anyone else in the public interested in learning more about animal behavior.

“This course will unlock the secrets of animal communication and behavior with our six-week Introduction to Animal Behavior course,” said Christine Calder, DVM, DACVB, instructor and developer of the program, in an organizational release.¹ “We will dive into the captivating world of pet body language and beyond, transforming your interactions with animals into deeper, more rewarding experiences.”

Calder has practiced medicine in both Maine and New Jersey for years, spent time at San Francisco SPCA as part of its behavior service, and taught at several veterinary teaching hospitals. In 2016, she completed her residency with the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and officially became a diplomate in 2017. Along with practicing, Calder is the chief behavior officer for Sophia Yin’s, DVM, Cattle Dog Publishing and a Vets at Vin consultant.

According to the release, the course will educate attendees on foundational concepts, developmental influencers, behavioral abnormalities, learning theories, species-specific considerations, and career opportunities for those interested in entering the field of animal behavior.¹ As the course progresses, the attendees will leave with a better understanding of interpreting body language of animals, recognizing any abnormal behaviors, and applying the learning theory principles to promote welfare across multiple animal populations.

The certification program is an extension of the college’s existing Bachelor of Science in Animal Behavior degree program. The program serves as an intersection of wildlife ecology, neuroscience, and psychology to educate and prepare students to enter a career in animal behavior. This program is one of only about a dozen in the United States.¹

The course will officially begin on September 15, 2024, and will cost $550. Anyone interested in learning more or enrolling should visit the UNE website.

Reference

University of New England online offering animal behavior certification course. News release. July 17, 2024. Accessed July 24, 2024.