Turn Your Passion for Animal Advocacy Into a Career.
Are you passionate about helping animals and ready to turn that passion into a meaningful career? The Animal Welfare Administration Diploma Program at Rockford Career College is designed to give you the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to make a real difference in the lives of animals and the communities that care for them.
This online program blends essential animal care education with real-world training in shelter operations, advocacy, and nonprofit leadership. You’ll learn how to evaluate animal welfare, promote behavioral health, manage shelter environments, and effectively communicate with pet owners and staff. Whether you want to support a local animal shelter, assist with rescue efforts, or provide services through your own small business, this diploma prepares you to step into animal care roles with confidence.
With expert instructors, flexible scheduling, and support every step of the way, Rockford works for animal lovers like you.
DURATION: 9 Months
CREDENTIALS: Diploma
FORMAT: 100% Online
CREDITS: 61 quarter credit hours
Build Skills in Animal Care, Ethics, and Leadership
Gain a mix of practical animal care training and leadership skills that prepare you for a range of animal welfare careers.
What You’ll Learn in the Animal Welfare Administration Diploma
Animal Care Foundations: Build essential skills in animal care and shelter operations to prepare for entry-level roles in the field.
Shelter Medicine & Behavior: Learn the fundamentals of providing medical care in shelter environments and how to promote animal well-being through enrichment and behavioral support.
Facility & Volunteer Management: Understand the essentials of managing staff and volunteers to ensure smooth shelter operations.
Shelter Communication: Develop customer service and client education skills to support pet owners and adopters.
This diploma gives you the training needed to work directly with animals and the people who care for them.
Start or Advance a Career in Animal Care
The need for skilled professionals in animal care continues to grow. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of animal caretakers is projected to increase by 30% in Illinois from 2021 to 2031.1
Whether you want to work in a shelter, clinic, or boarding facility—or even launch your own small pet care service—this program helps you take the first step.Â
Graduates of this program can pursue careers such as:
You don’t need years of experience to start making a difference—you just need the willingness to show up and learn.
This diploma program is designed to prepare you for entry-level roles in animal care. To succeed, we ask that you:
Be consistent with your coursework and time management
Bring compassion and professionalism to every assignment
Embrace feedback and stay open to learning new skills
Participate in discussions and activities that mirror real-world scenarios
Ask for support when you need it—our instructors are here to help
Â
You’re not just studying. You’re preparing to be someone animals and their caretakers can count on.
Your First Step Toward a Career With Purpose
Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking to shift careers, the Animal Welfare Administration diploma is a great place to start.
To enroll in this program, you’ll need:
To be at least 17 years old (parental consent required for those under 18)
A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent recognized credential
To complete a Digital Learning Readiness Assessment to ensure you’re comfortable with online learning
Our admissions advisors are ready to walk you through everything—from paperwork to program expectations—so you can move forward with confidence.
This program is perfect for students who:
Want a compassionate, purpose-driven career
Are just starting out or returning to school after time away
Thrive in supportive, flexible learning environments
Ready to begin your journey in animal care?
Career Training That Fits Your Life
This fully online diploma program was built to give you flexibility—so you can pursue your education without putting the rest of your life on hold.
You’ll move through the program in 5-week modules, typically taking two classes at a time. Weekly assignments, interactive lessons, and instructor guidance help you stay on track and build confidence.
Here’s what to expect:
12–15 hours per week of coursework and study time
Opportunities to practice what you learn through real-world scenarios
Support from instructors, tutors, and student services along the way
You’ll build a strong foundation in animal care while developing the soft skills that matter—like communication, organization, and professionalism.
Q: What is the difference between the Diploma and Associate Degree programs?
The diploma focuses on foundational training in animal care and shelter operations, while the associate degree builds on that knowledge with leadership, management, and outreach skills for advanced roles.
Q:Â Can I apply to the associate program after finishing the diploma?
Absolutely. After completing the Diploma program, students have the option to enroll in the 7-month online Associate Degree completion program to further enhance their qualifications and career prospects.
Q:Â What are the admissions requirements for the associate degree?
Applicants must have completed a related certificate or diploma from an accredited institution and hold a minimum 2.0 GPA. Official transcripts are required.
Q:Â Is this program 100% online?
Yes. The diploma is delivered 100% online, allowing you to learn from home on your schedule.
Q:Â Do I need experience working with animals?
No prior experience is required. This program is designed to provide entry-level training in animal care and shelter operations.
Next Session Starts: September 8, 2025
After you complete the Animal Welfare Administration Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Animal Welfare Business Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 16 months total to get an Associate Degree.
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Designed for Future Animal Care Leaders
After you complete the Animal Welfare Administration Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Animal Welfare Business Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 16 months total to get an Associate Degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Our experienced financial aid team is here to help you explore options for grants, loans, and scholarships. Let’s make your dream career in animal welfare a reality—without the financial stress.
Rockford Career College
(A Branch Campus of Stautzenberger College-Maumee)
1130 S Alpine Rd #100,
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 965-8616
or (888) 680-6682
Stay connected with updates on how Rockford Works!
