Bachelor of Science in Animal Assisted Therapy

The Bachelor of Science in Animal Assisted Therapy program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to become qualified animal-assisted therapy professionals. This program combines academic coursework with hands-on training in animal-human interaction, therapeutic techniques, and ethical considerations. Graduates will be prepared to work in various settings, including healthcare facilities, schools, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations.

Curriculum Outline

Year 1: Foundation Year

• Semester 1
  • Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy
  • Animal Behavior and Psychology
  • Animal Care and Handling
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills
• Semester 2
  • Animal Health and Welfare
  • Therapeutic Communication
  • Introduction to Counseling
  • Ethical Considerations in Animal Assisted Therapy
  • Research Methods

Year 2: Intermediate Year

• Semester 1
  • Group Dynamics and Facilitation
  • Therapeutic Riding and Equine-Assisted Therapy
  • Canine-Assisted Therapy Techniques
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Assessment and Evaluation in Animal Assisted Therapy
• Semester 2
  • Advanced Animal Behavior
  • Therapeutic Play and Activities
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy in Healthcare
  • Research Methods (Advanced)
  • Internship Placement (Start)

Year 3: Senior Year

• Semester 1
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy in Education
  • Animal-Assisted Therapy in Rehabilitation
  • Program Development and Management
  • Capstone Project (Start)
• Semester 2
  • Capstone Project (Completion)
  • Internship Placement (Completion)
  • Ethics and Professional Practice
  • Elective (e.g., Animal-Assisted Therapy for Trauma, Animal-Assisted Therapy for Children)