Albizu University's Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) certification provides students with the specialized knowledge and skills they need to be competent in AAI therapies. This program is designed for health/allied health professionals and educators who are interested in integrating animals into their work. It prepares them to be culturally responsive and apply their skills to diverse populations across different settings.
Our 23-credit online Animal Assisted Therapy Certification is designed for a diverse range of learners. It offers a fully online format with live and self-paced learning opportunities to meet the needs of students who require a flexible schedule.
Key coursework includes:
- The history of AAI, as well as the training, research, and contributions of anthrozoology and psychology.
- Emphasis on responsible, ethical, and legal practice for professionals who integrate AAI as a complementary modality.
- Promotion of scientific research collaborations and social awareness of animals in our lives.
Empower yourself to make a difference with Albizu’s Animal Assisted Interventions Certificate Programs
Whether you’re passionate about helping children with special needs, providing support to veterans, or simply bringing comfort to people in need, Albizu University's Animal Assisted Interventions Certificate Programs can help you achieve your goals. Apply today and learn skills that help you change lives!
Available in the following locations:
OnlineProgram Details
Credits
23
Academic Level
Graduate Certificate
Certificate Duration
One academic year
Request Information
Program Director:
Yahaira Segarra González, Ph.D.
(787) 838-7272, ext. 7143
ysegarra@albizu.edu
Albizu Mayagüez University Center
Carr. 64 Esquina Calle #3 Urb. Industrial Algarrobos,
Mayagüez, P.R. 00680
Program Highlights
- Animal-Assisted Intervention Certifications at Albizu are taught by experienced professionals who have a comprehensive understanding of the field. This ensures students receive the highest quality education possible.
- Albizu University’s Human-Animal Interactions Certifications place an emphasis on diversity and inclusion in their curriculum and training to help students to learn how to work effectively with a variety of individuals and groups.
- An Animal-Assisted Therapy Certification can provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of others. Research has shown that AAI can have a positive impact on a variety of populations, including long-term hospital patients, children with autism, individuals with anxiety, and older adults with dementia.
In Focus
- Albizu’s Animal-Assisted Intervention Certification program is flexible and accessible, making it ideal for students with busy schedules or who prefer to learn at their own pace or require a flexible schedule.
- Our programs can be used to address a variety of needs, including physical, emotional, cognitive, and social challenges. Students learn how to develop and implement AAI programs that are tailored to the specific needs of the individuals they serve. This includes learning about different types of AAI, as well as how to choose and prepare animals for animal-assisted intervention work.
- AAI therapists play a vital role in the lives of individuals with a variety of needs, and the demand for their services is growing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects jobs for Recreational Therapists, including Animal-Assisted Intervention Therapists, to grow 8% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
Your Journey Towards an Animal-Assisted Therapy Certification Starts Here
Our admissions and financial aid advisors are here to answer any questions you may have about the application process for Albizu’s Animal Assisted Interventions Certificate Programs and tuition costs. We can also help you develop a financial aid plan that works for you.
To contact us, simply fill out the form on this page or call us at 1-800-631-1835. We look forward to hearing from you!
Choosing the right university matters.
- Evidence of completion of a Master's or Doctoral degree in Psychology, Clinical Psychology, School Psychology, or Counseling, with a minimum overall average of 3.0 GPA.
The institution reserves the right to admit candidates who do not meet the minimum requirements. Considering Exceptional admission criteria: Minimum accumulated general average of 2.50 GPA (Grade Point Average). Admitted applicants will have one semester to meet the academic progress satisfactory applicable to their academic level, so that they remain active students in the program for the rest of the course of study. In addition, they must present evidence of research experience (writing, certifications).
- Access the following link to complete your application: https://apply.albizu.edu. You can also digitally attach your admission requirements in PDF format.
- Send transcripts of official credits from the institutions where you have studied previously to the Admissions Office. The applicant must have passed courses in the area of psychological evaluation or its equivalent: Intelligence Assessment, Personality Assessment: Objective Tests, Personality Assessment: Projective Tests. The applicant must have taken the courses in the area of psychological intervention or its equivalent: Psychotherapy, Advanced Psychotherapy. Please address them to:
ALBIZU UNIVERSITY
RECRUITMENT & ADMISSIONS OFFICE
PO BOX 9023711
SAN JUAN, PR 00902-3711
- Evidence of supervised clinical practice in psychotherapy and assessment.
- Two (2) letters of recommendation from a teacher, employer, or community leader
- Negative Certificate of Criminal Record. You may apply online at https://www.pr.gov/.
- Original Health Certificate.
- Proof of Hepatitis-B vaccination.
After submitting the Application for Admission along with all required documentation, the Campus Admissions Office will evaluate your academic record to determine if you meet the requirements. If eligible, the record is referred to the program director for evaluation, interview and admission determination. The determination of Admission or non-admission to the program will be notified in writing to the applicant through the Admissions Office.
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