Learn how to turn the bond between animal and humans into a professional skill through Concordia’s Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) Certificate program.
Have you ever witnessed the incredible bond between humans and animals and wondered how it could be used to help people? If so, the Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) Certificate at Concordia University Wisconsin might be the perfect opportunity for you to turn that passion into a professional skill.
Why Animal Assisted Therapy?
AAT is more than just spending time with animals. It involves structured, goal-oriented therapeutic interventions that integrate animals into professional practice. Whether you’re a therapist, nurse, social worker, educator, or behavioral health professional, this certificate will equip you with the knowledge and skills to use AAT effectively in your field.
The benefits of human-animal interactions are profound. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve social interactions, and even aid in physical rehabilitation. By incorporating animals into therapy sessions, professionals can create a more engaging, comforting, and healing environment for their clients.
Additional benefits of human-animal interactions also include:
- Psychosocial and psychophysiological benefits
- Improved mood, behavior and interactions
- Reduction in stress measured via cortisol, BP and HR
- Reduction of fear and anxiety (self-reported)
- Improved physical and mental health; notably cardiovascular health
What to expect from the AAT Certificate program
This program is designed for busy professionals looking for a flexible way to expand their expertise. Here’s what makes it unique:
✅ Comprehensive Learning – The program consists of four courses that build upon each other, ensuring you develop a deep understanding of AAT best practices.
✅ Flexible Online Format – Three courses are fully online, allowing you to learn at your own pace while staying connected with instructors and fellow students and one of the courses is a combination of online and face to face.
✅ Hands-On Experience – The third course includes a weekend intensive at Concordia University Wisconsin’s Mequon campus, where you’ll engage in practical, hands-on training with animals.
✅ Professional Community – You’ll move through the program as a cohort, creating a valuable network of AAT professionals who can support and inspire you throughout your career.
✅ Capstone Project – You’ll complete a final project focused on integrating AAT into your own professional practice, setting you up for success after earning your certificate.
Program details and costs
- Start Date: September 1st (new cohorts begin each year)
- Duration: Courses run through the following August
- Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week for online courses
- CEUs Earned: Yes! You’ll earn continuing education credits
- Tuition: $450 per course ($1,800 total)
- Early Payment Discount: 10% off if you pay upfront ($1,620 total)
How to apply
Ready to take the next step? Applying is easy!
- Complete the application found here.
- Our Program Director will review your application and notify you of your admission status.
- If accepted, you will receive registration details about two months before courses begin.
Got questions?
We’d love to hear from you! Contact Lois Harrison at Lois.Harrison@cuw.edu for more details. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your career and make a difference through Animal Assisted Therapy. Click below to learn more.