ACM40322 Certificate IV in

Animal Behaviour and Training

Gain a Nationally Recognised Qualification in Animal Behaviour and Training

Do you love teaching people to have a better relationship with their dog? Would you love to learn how to influence an animal’s behaviour? How would you like to take your training to the next level? Our ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training (previously ACM40321) is the gold star standard with input from internationally recognised experts in animal training. Successful completion of this course provides you with the nationally recognised animal training qualification as well as membership to the internationally renowned Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT).

This is a 12-month blended course and is the perfect mix of online and practical training in a supportive learning environment. Our philosophy incorporates modern, positive-reinforcement based and force-free animal training, perfectly combined with clear and compassionate training for the human half! As a graduate, you’ll be prepared for employment as an animal trainer.

Course snapshot

  • Duration: 1 year
  • Next intake: July 2024
  • Application status: Register Your Interest
  • Practical Training: 2 x 4 day intensive practical workshops
  • Prerequisite: HLTAID011 Provide First Aid (to be completed by first practical workshop)
  • Best suited to: Students with some knowledge or experience in the animal care and/or animal training industry, who are looking to consolidate their skills with a national qualification, and/or are looking to take the next step as a qualified animal trainer.
NRT - nationally recognised training - for animal studies, horse care and vet nursing
IMDT training and behaviour course for dog trainers
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Course outline

Laura Ryder IMDTB KPACTP CPDT-KA FFCP

Laura has worked as the Head Dog Trainer and Behaviour Consultant for a busy veterinary clinic for over 25 years. She is a Fear Free Certified Professional and Member of the Fear Free Speakers Bureau. She holds her Certificate IV in Dog Behaviour Training and a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment is a full member of IMDT, APDT and PPG.

She has presented both locally and overseas to the AVA, VNCA, IMDT, APDT (USA) and PPG on a wide range of dog behaviour and training topics.

Fiona Cowie IMDT

Fiona also has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, including 14 years as a detection dog handler with two government departments. She has also run a successful dog training business and is passionate about supporting new dog trainers entering the industry.

Fiona holds a Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour and a Certificate IV in Training & Assessment. She is also a full member of IMDT and PPG.

Both Fiona and Laura are passionate about professional development and have completed numerous industry recognised courses.

Guest Video Presentations

The course also includes guest video presentations by leading international experts:

  • Steve Mann – Founder of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers and Author of the books Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy, Easy Peasy Doggy Squeezy, Easy Peasy Doggy Diary and Easy Peasy Awesome Pawesome Dog Training for Kids
  • Ken Ramirez – Executive Vice-President and Chief Training Officer of Karen Pryor Clicker Training and Author of the books Animal Training: Successful Animal Management Through Positive Reinforcement and The Eye of the Trainer: Animal Training, Transformation and Trust.
  • Dr Susan Friedman – Psychology Professor at Utah State University who has pioneered the application of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) to captive and companion animals. Susan created the concept of ‘Unlabel Me!’ and the Hierarchy of Behaviour-Change Procedures.
  • Dr Robert HewingsRetired police dog trainer (Metropolitan Police Dog Training Establishment – London), creator of the UK College of Scent Dogs and Author of the book Scent Training for Every Dog.

Plus, you will also hear from these highly respected industry professionals:

  • Hannah Branigan
  • Michael Shikashio
  • Mikkel Bekker
  • Lori Stevens
  • Laura Monaco-Torelli
  • Lori Chamberland
  • Allie Bender
  • Emily Strong
  • Carrie-Anne Selwyn
  • Mary Hunter
  • Louise Ginman
  • Dr Rachel White
  • Scotti Harvey
  • Peta Clarke
  • Barbara Hodel
  • Helen Motteram
  • Aileen Stevenson
  • Ryan Cartlidge
  • Petra Edwards

This is a blended learning course. You will participate in:

  • Online learning from home (approx. 3 x 8 hours each week)
  • 2 x 4 day compulsory workshops based in Perth, WA. See: Key Dates
  • Regular virtual sessions

Requirements for Workshops (suitable training dog required)
Each participant will need to have a dog that is comfortable around other dogs and humans, crate trained and capable of lots of training.  If you do not have access to a suitable dog, or are travelling from elsewhere in Australia to attend, you will need to advise us so suitable arrangements can be made.

Students must:

  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Be available to participate in ALL practical training days
  • Have access to a dog who will be comfortable to undertake the practical training elements. For the at-home learning components, there are no training pre-requisites for the dogs, as they will be in their safe environment. If you do not live with a dog, you will need to ensure you have access to a dog (i.e., family or friend’s dog they are happy for you to train with)
  • Be physically capable of restraining animals, lifting and carrying objects up to 10kg and standing for extended periods of time.
  • Have a reliable internet connection and access to a desktop computer or laptop. You will be required to write, submit and in some cases upload assessments and various types of multi-media files online in your own time, therefore we strongly recommend using a desktop or laptop computer for your studies
  • Be proficient in speaking and writing in English
  • Due to the required workload and level of study, have a minimum level of schooling up to and including year 10, with a good understanding of science and maths
  • HLTAID011 First Aid Certificate – you are required to show proof of unit completion one week prior to the first practical workshop. You will need to study this certificate with an approved provider (see www.training.gov.au for a full list of providers)

This course is highly competitive and has limited places. Therefore, successful students are selected based on prior work experience, education, individual attitude and aptitude. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by an AVT team member.

At workshops, you will be required to wear:

  • An AVT polo shirt and name badge (supplied by AVT)
  • Enclosed black shoes (supplied by student)
  • Neatly presented, long comfortable work pants suitable for bending and manual work (supplied by student).

What will you learn?

ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training contains 16 units of study (including your compulsory prerequisite HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid) covering a broad range of topics relating to animal training and behaviour.  You will become competent in:

  • Interpreting animal behaviour
  • Understanding and applying animal learning theory
  • Evaluating best practice conditioning and training methodologies and techniques to meet the welfare needs of animals,
  • Conducting group training classes and consultations
  • Providing ethical training services for carers/clients,
  • Developing and implementing enrichment strategies,
  • Understanding animal anatomy
  • Interacting safely with animals

The skills and knowledge you will learn can be applied in a range of roles from trainers to animal handlers. For more information on careers working with animals read our article Top 6 Animal Care Careers.

Behaviour and Training Qualification for animal dog trainers

Course outcomes

Our graduates can go on to a wide range of roles across the animal behaviour and animal training industry. 

Job Outcomes

Graduates from this course can go on to careers such as:

  • Animal Trainer (self-employed or working for an organisation)
  • Puppy Class trainer
  • One to one pet dog training consultations
  • Group Dog Class Trainer
  • Trainer in an animal rescue/shelter
  • Shelter Worker
  • Assistance Dog Trainer
  • At home enrichment Provider
  • Walk and Train Dog Trainer
  • Trainer in an animal boarding facility
  • Trainer in an animal services facility (day-care, veterinary clinic, etc)
  • Trainer or handler for a government organisation
  • Educational role within the animal care industry

Skills Outcomes

Some of the skills you will be able to apply once qualified include:

  • Providing group dog training classes
  • Providing one to one animal training consultation services
  • Conditioning and training animals
  • Provision of appropriate enrichment for individual animals
  • Interpretation of animal body language
  • Understanding animal learning theory
  • Ability to interpret animal behaviour in a safe manner
  • Customer service and client education

Course content

You must complete the following 8 units (in addition to completing your compulsory prerequisite, HLTAID011 Provide First Aid prior to the first practical workshop. You will need to complete this unit with another provider).

  • ACMBEH301 Identify behaviours and interact safely with animals
  • ACMBEH403 Evaluate animal conditioning methodology and program design
  • ACMBEH404 Condition animal behaviour
  • ACMWHS401 Maintain workplace health and safety processes
  • ACMGEN402 Advise on animal industry compliance and practices
  • ACMBEH402 Develop, implement, and monitor enrichment strategies for animals
  • ACMGEN304 Promote positive wellbeing in self & others in animal care workplaces
  • ACMGEN303 Assess the welfare status of an animal

Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training Students will also be required to study:

  • ACMARM403 Identify and respond to animal behaviour in animal management and regulation environment
  • ACMBEH405 Provide individual advice on animal behaviour management/training
  • ACMBEH406 Conduct group training classes for animal owners or carers
  • ACMBEH407 Conduct animal behavioural assessments
  • ACMVET411 Prepare, deliver and review animal care education programs
  • ACMARM407 Conduct community awareness programs
  • ACMADT403 Train dogs using operant and classical conditioning techniques

What makes this course different?

  • Professionally written and delivered – this course is written and presented by industry experts Laura Ryder IMDTB KPA CPDT-KA FFCP and Fiona Cowie IMDT.
  • Fully supportive learning environment with regular zoom classroom sessions. In addition to on-site supervision at your practical workshops, you will be provided with various contact options to our support team and fully qualifed trainers.
  • You will follow a structured study timetable to ensure you stay on track. Our student support team will follow your progress and provide feedback.
  • We are an independent animal care registered training organisation (RTO). We develop and deliver our own course material, so you get the latest and most up-to-date knowledge.
  • This nationally recognised qualification also provides you with membership to the internationally recognised Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, a kite mark of quality in the dog training industry. This membership will also provide you with continued support as you transition to employment in the industry.
  • At AVT, we combine a high standard of theoretical knowledge with intensive practical training. This allows you to gain the competence and confidence required for an exciting and rewarding career
Become an IMDT dog trainer
Nationally recognised animal care course in Australia NRT

What students say about our course

Fees & inclusions

Total course fees: $6,850

Payable via our monthly payment plan. Initial payment of $1,500 plus 10 x $535 monthly payments and includes:

  • Learning guides (Downloadable)
  • Textbooks (Downloadable)
  • Dedicated student support
  • One-on-one mentoring by AVT Trainers
  • Assessments and Certification
  • Practical training insurance
  • Practical Training Kit: Uniform, name badge, workbook and more.

*Fees, inclusions and payment plan amounts are subject to change. The compulsory prerequisite unit (first aid) is an additional cost to the student. If you decide to withdraw from study for any reason, refunds are not issued. Please see our policies page for full details. 

Register for our next Animal Behaviour & Training Course

Course Dates
Application Status
July 2024 Intake
Course runs July 2024 - June 2025

This course has limited places with high demand. We reserve the right to close course intakes before any advertised close date. 

FAQs

General Information – FAQs Cert IV in Animal Behaviour and Training

The ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training course is delivered with a combination of online learning and practical training. The practical component includes 2x four day intensive workshops held in Perth, WA. The workshops are a crucial part of the course and attendance in person is compulsory. The hands-on experience gained during these workshops is essential for successful completion the course.

Due to the specific contact hours required for students to successfully complete the ACM40322 Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour and Training course, the workshops must be conducted in person and cannot be conducted virtually.

We are here to support our students coming from other parts of Australia. We organise the workshop dates well in advance. The dates for the 2x four-day intensives are set prior to enrolment. This allows you to ensure the dates work for you, plus plenty of time to plan your travel arrangements.

A USI is your individual education number for life. It also gives you an online record of your vocational education and training (VET) undertaken in Australia.

To complete nationally recognised training, you need a USI. Without one, you can’t get your qualification or statement of attainment.

How do I get a USI?
Getting a USI is quick, easy and free. Follow the steps on the USI website.

Fees FAQs – Animal Care General

Concession fees are only available to eligible students for selected courses which have been granted government funding. Currently, this applies to the following courses offered by AVT:

For more information on the eligibility criteria please see the fees section of the course pages above.

None of the courses currently offered by Applied Vocational Training are eligible for Government HECS-HELP or VET Student Loans (formerly VET FEE-HELP).

HECS-HELP is a scheme that assists eligible Commonwealth supported students to pay their student contribution amount with either a loan or a discount for certain up-front payments. HECS‑HELP loans are available at all public universities and at a handful of private higher education providers.

VET Student Loans is an Australian Government loan scheme to assist eligible students studying diploma level and above qualifications to pay their tuition fees. VET Student Loans replaces VET FEE-HELP from 1 January 2017. There are no Government loans available for Certificate IV  and lower levels of study including those offered at AVT.

To find out if you may be eligible for alternative support such as Youth Allowance, we recommend contacting Centrelink .

We offer flexible monthly payment plans with instalments for all students. We do not require upfront full payment for any of our courses. Total course fees and payment plan structure vary with each course and individual circumstances. Visit the relevant qualifications page for more information or contact us for further details.

International – FAQ

All qualifications offered by Applied Vocational Training require students to learn and demonstrate knowledge and practical application of a significant amount of Australian local and state legislation, regulations and standards.

In other countries, legislation, regulations and standards are often different, making it difficult for us to assess and recognise competence in all areas.

As such, Applied Vocational Training no longer accepts applications from students living overseas.

 

Related FAQ’s:

I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

I wish to study in Australia on a student visa. Can I study with Applied Vocational Training?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

 

This answer specifically addresses students who wish to study in Australia on a Student Visa.

Unfortunately, we cannot assist individuals studying as international students as we do not hold the required CRICOS (The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students) registration.

The following link outlines the main steps to study in Australia homeaffairs.gov.au. This will require applying for a student visa under the Vocational Education and Training Sector. However, you will need to have been accepted into a full-time study course by a CRICOS approved provider and then apply for a student visa. These normally take approximately 46 days to process.

You may find CRICOS registered training institutions in Australia that can offer qualifications to international students. Some TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions hold CRICOS registration and offer Animal Studies and Veterinary Nursing courses.

Related FAQ’s:

Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

In some cases, registered training organisations (RTOs) may enrol non-resident students who are temporarily visiting or reside in Australia on certain visas, other than study visas. However, some visas include restrictions on training. Most visas and sub-class visas clearly outline what your study rights are in Australia. It is the responsibility of the individual to check their study and work rights according to their individual visa. Further information is also available from the Department of Home Affairs.

Visa information for Jobs & Skills WA Funding Jobs and Skills WA funded programs

Students wishing to be considered for funded places in the ACM40418 Certificate  IV in Veterinary Nursing should visit this page for more detailed information about eligibility

Students wishing to be considered for funded places in the ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health & Welfare) course should visit this page for detailed information about eligibility.

Students wishing to be considered for funding places in the ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services (RSPCA) course should visit this page for detailed information about eligibility.

    Related FAQ’s:

     

    In some cases, a registered training organisation (RTO) may enrol students who are temporarily visiting or reside in Australia on certain visas, other than study visas. However, some visas include restrictions on training. Most visas and sub-class visas clearly outline what your study rights are in Australia. It is the responsibility of the individual to check their study and work rights according to their individual visa* . Further information is also available from the Department of Home Affairs.

    *Any course undertaken by a student visa holder must be registered on CRICOS and training must be provided by a CRICOS registered provider (The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students). Applied Vocational Training is not a registered CRICOS provider and as such we are unable to accept applications from individuals wishing to study on a student visa.

    Related FAQ’s:

    I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

    I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

    Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

    I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

    Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

     

    Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

    This answer specifically addresses international students who wish to study in Australia on a Student Visa.

    Unfortunately, we are unable to assist individuals with studying as an international student in Australia as we do not have the necessary registration with our government to enrol students in Australia on a Student Visa. The required registration for this is CRICOS ‘The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students’.

    To find out more about studying in Australia we recommend visiting the Australian Government website: homeaffairs.gov.au. This will require applying for a student visa under the Vocational Education and Training Sector. However, you will need to have been accepted into a full-time study course by a CRICOS approved provider and then apply for the student visa. These normally take approximately 46 days to process.

    You may find CRICOS registered training institutions in Australia who can offer qualifications to international students. Some TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions hold CRICOS registration and offer courses in Animal Studies and Veterinary Nursing

    Related FAQ’s:

    Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

    Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

    I wish to study in Australia on a student visa. Can I study with Applied Vocational Training?

    I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

    I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

     

    Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

    RPL – FAQ

    To receive a credit for a unit of competency that you have previously been awarded, you must be able to supply a verifiable Testamur (certificate) or Statement of Attainment obtained from the issuing provider.

    A Testamur or Statement of Attainment must either contain the wording ‘The qualification is recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework’ or the AQF logo authorised by the AQF Council.

    A Record of Results or Statement of Academic Record by itself is not sufficient when applying for a credit transfer of a nationally recognised unit of competency.

    If you do not have a copy of your Testamur or Statement of Attainment you are responsible for requesting a copy from the issuing provider, we are unable to do this on your behalf.

    For more information about RPL see our frequently asked questions here.

    Yes. If you have completed and passed the exact same unit as delivered by AVT, you will receive a credit transfer for the unit.  You must be deemed competent and be awarded a PASS in the unit.

    At the time of application, you will be required to provide us with a Statement of Attainment from a recognised and approved training provider. We will verify your previous studies with the training provider.

    For information about fees and charges that apply to credit transfers, please see our student policy page.

    Credit transfer fees do not apply for students who have completed a previous qualification with AVT.

     

    Yes. You can use units of competency received from a prior qualification even if the unit is different from an elective unit required by AVT.  You can claim a credit transfer (CT) for these units as long as:-

    • the unit is current and relevant to work undertaken in the animal care and management industry and
    • you hold a Statement of Attainment from the issuing provider.

    If this is the case, then you may use previous units of study to fulfil the elective component of the qualification.

    You will be required to provide us with a Statement of Attainment from a recognised and approved training provider at the time of application. We will verify your previous studies with the training provider.

    For information about fees and charges that apply to credit transfers, please see our student policy page. 

    Please note, we are unable to offer RPL or Train and Assess any other elective unit of competency other than the ones provided in the courses offered on our website.

    For a full list of our qualifications visit our Qualifications Overview page 

    In meeting the required rules of evidence and principals of assessment, AVT is unable to provide recognition of prior learning (RPL) to candidates who can not demonstrate recent and current skills and knowledge.

    Applicants need to be able to demonstrate that they meet the competency requirements of the current training package including application of current industry techniques using the latest technology, equipment and supplies in accordance with the current standards and regulations.

    If you wish to gain certification as a veterinary nurse or animal carer without having current experience, you will need to enrol in and complete the full course.

    Read more about RPL here

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is available to enrolled students of AVT qualifications.  The prior learning may be in the form of previous studies or completed qualifications (including superseded qualifications), on the job experience or volunteer work.

    To find out more detailed information about RPL visit our RPL page.

    Students with eligible credit transfers may apply, however, due to the course delivery format, 100% attendance is required for induction and practical training/on-site days and therefore full course fees will apply. Credit transfer fees do not apply for Jobs and Skills WA funded students.

    Why choose AVT?

    Dedicated Animal Care College

    AVT has been delivering Vet Nursing and Animal Care related courses for over 25 years. It's safe to say there are no plumbing or hairdressing courses here!

    Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

    Outstanding Track Record

    A recent NCVER VET student outcomes report found 93% of AVT graduates were employed or enrolled in further study after training and 95% of graduates would recommend the training provided by AVT.

    Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

    Safe and Supported Learning

    Our qualified teaching team have many years of experience as well as extensive backgrounds in the veterinary and animal care industry. They're approachable and dedicated to helping students succeed.

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