Programme outline
You will gain the skills and knowledge to work in a role assisting with the care of companion animals (cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and birds), in a variety of settings such as pet stores, animal rescue centres, pet grooming, animal day care, kennels and catteries etc.
Graduates will have the skills, knowledge, and attributes to assist with the care of animals under limited supervision.
More detail about this qualification
This programme is delivered by blended learning i.e., face to face and online learning. This means some of your lessons may be delivered via Moodle (our online learning platform), which will require you to have a computer and internet access at home.
You will be required to attend two on-campus days a week. In 2025 this will be Monday and Tuesday.
Course related costs
The following costs are approximate. Confirmed costs and details on where to purchase your uniform will be sent out prior to the programme's start date.
- Uniform and shoes: $100
- Placement travel costs: these will vary depending on where you live and where your placements are.
Entry requirements
Open Entry, if the delegated authority is satisfied that the applicant has the capability to complete the requirements of the programme.
International applicants are required to have an IELTS score of 5 (general or academic) with no individual band lower than 5 from one test taken in the preceding two years, or an equivalent described in NZQA Rules.
In addition to meeting the requirements for admission, all applicants must complete a health and criminal declaration form to ensure fitness to practice, prior to acceptance into the programme.
*Convictions of any offence may not necessarily exclude applicants from enrolment. Any decision is made on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the delegated authority.
Selection processes may apply where the number of applications exceed the number of available places.
How to apply
Complete the health and criminal conviction declaration form and save to your computer so you can attach it when you complete the online application.
Do you have enough time?
To check which study options best fit your lifestyle, try our handy time calculator tool
Give yourself credit →
Use the knowledge you already have to fast-track your qualification. Workplace-learning, volunteering, professional development, other provider qualifications and online courses can be recognised as prior learning and put towards your qualification. Start by getting in touch with us, or find out more here.
Whitireia and WelTec are a business division of Te Pūkenga - New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.
