Q: May I take any of the courses individually?

A: Yes, as of Fall 2006, all Pets for Life courses may be taken individually.

Q: How often do I need to log into the courses?

A: Regarding the first course, Evaluating Your Shelter: Are You Ready to Implement a Behavior Program?: You may log in any time, at your own pace, but you must have this course completed prior to the start of the second course. Expect to spend 2-5 hours on this course total*.

Regarding the other courses, which are all scheduled and will be led by an instructor: Students are not required to log on at specific dates and times but they should plan to log on several times per week and complete their assignments by the end of each week. Students will spend approximately 3 - 5 hours per week reading materials, completing assignments, and discussing issues on cyber-discussion boards.

*The amount of time each students spends on the course each week depends on how fast their Internet connection is, how fast they read, how fast they type, and how much time they are willing and able to contribute towards the experience.

Q: What will assignments entail?

A: Assignments may include reading the course materials, practicing or trying out an action in the field, then reporting back on the experience in the discussion boards. Students are asked to keep up with each other's postings on the discussion boards and to interact with each other regularly. In doing so, students will immediately implement ideas from the course lessons, then get and give feedback to each other — learning from each other and learning from the instructor.

Q: By when should I register?

A: If you wish to earn the Pets for Life Certificate, please be sure that you have enough time to complete the first course, "Evaluating Your Shelter: Are You Ready to Implement a Behavior Program? before you take the other courses.

Q: Will the course series be offered again?

A: We are offering the courses individually, starting in the fall of 2006. Visit the Course Search for details. 
  

Return to the Pets for Life Certificate Program description page.