Animal Control Officer

group of diverse medical professionals taking care of a dog

Bergen Community College offers the New Jersey Department of Health approved Animal Control Officer (ACO) course. Anyone who has a personal or professional interest in animal welfare is welcome to attend.  This includes those working in kennels, shelters, rescue organizations, and volunteer organizations as well as those looking to pursue a fulfilling career in animal management.

Successful completion of this course meets the requirements of the N.J.A.C. 8:23A-2.2 for appointment as an ACO by a New Jersey Municipality.  Additionally, this is the only Certified ACO course whose graduates receive certification by the Emergency Care and Safety Institute for Pet First Aid and Incident Command Systems 100 and National Incident Management 700 by the National Wildlife Fire Coordinating Group.

Over the course of seven Saturdays, students will have the opportunity to be taught by, interact with, and build relationships with the foremost experts in the State of New Jersey regarding animal control and animal welfare.

Completion of the course requires attendance at all classes.

In addition to the classroom component, students will arrange for and complete a 20-hour field training component in order to receive certification.

Program Eligibility

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • A high school diploma, or High School Equivalency is required
  • No transcripts, SAT, ACT or other standardized exams are required

Animal Control Officer | CD-072