Companion Animal Training
A.A. Degree Major Psychology · Santiago Canyon College · 2025-2026 Catalog
The Associate of Arts Degree in Companion Animal Training is designed for students who wish to obtain the foundational knowledge and skills required to work with companion animals (e.g., dogs, cats, birds, horses). Upon completion of this program, students will be eligible to obtain employment as animal trainers, day care or shelter workers, groomers, kennel attendants, pet adoption counselors, or behavior consultants.
Program Courses & Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Companion Animal Training, AA: Complete all of the following | 22 | |
| Major Requirements | 19 | |
| Select PSYCC1000 or PSYCC1000H. Credit will only be awarded for one course. | ||
| PSYC 110 | Introduction to Companion Animal Psychology | 3 |
| PSYC 114 | Introduction to Animal Learning and Behavior | 3 |
| PSYC 118 | Behavior Modification | 3 |
| PSYC 122 | Dog Training | 3 |
| PSYC 220 | Introduction to Research Methods in Psychology | 4 |
| PSYC C1000 | Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| PSYC C1000H | Introduction to Psychology - Honors | 3 |
| Select one (1) course from the following | 3 | |
| BIOL 109 | Fundamentals of Biology | 3 |
| BIOL 109H | Honors Fundamentals of Biology | 3 |
| BUS 170 | Principles of Small Business Management | 3 |
| COMM 100 | Introduction to Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| COMM 100H | Honors Introduction to Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| COMM C1000 | Introduction to Public Speaking | 3 |
| PSYC 200 | Introduction to Biological Psychology | 3 |
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of how companion animals think and learn.
- Demonstrate an understanding of companion animal behavior, development, and body language.
- Apply evidence-based practices to teach basic manners and solve problematic behaviors.