Turn Your Passion for Animals Into a Professional Path
Do you dream of leading efforts that improve the lives of animals? At Stautzenberger College, our Animal Welfare Business Administration Associate Degree programs are designed to help you transform that passion into a fulfilling career.
Whether your interests lie in shelter management, pet care services, or animal advocacy, this program equips you with essential skills in animal behavior, care, and welfare, while also building a strong foundation in leadership and communication. Best of all, these programs are 100% online, making it easier to learn from wherever you are.
With input from industry professionals and real-world learning opportunities, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact in a growing field.
Animal Welfare Business Administration Associate Degree
Take your education further with leadership, fundraising, and team-building training.
Length: 7 months (after diploma)
Credential: Associate Degree
Format: 100% Online
Credits: 110 quarter credit hours
Designed for those who already hold the Animal Welfare Administration diploma or similar credits, this program deepens your business and supervisory skills to prepare for leadership roles in animal welfare.
Lead With Compassion. Manage With Purpose. Our curriculum blends animal care education with business leadership training. You’ll explore the ethical, legal, and health aspects of animal welfare while developing management strategies for teams, volunteers, and facilities.
Advance Your Skills with the Animal Welfare Business Administration AAS Degree
Enhance your knowledge with advanced training in leadership, fundraising, and operations for animal-focused organizations.
With both programs, you’ll gain the real-world knowledge and leadership tools needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of animals—and the communities that care for them.
Animal Welfare Administration Is Growing, And Needs Leaders Like You
The demand for compassionate, skilled professionals in animal welfare is stronger than ever. From shelters and rescues to pet care businesses and veterinary offices, organizations are seeking leaders who can combine care expertise with operational know-how. If you’re passionate about helping animals and ready to lead, this field offers a deeply rewarding path forward.
Graduates of this program can pursue careers such as:
You’re ready to do something different — let’s take the next step together.
At Stautzenberger College, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to build a better future. That’s why our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and all about helping you succeed — from your very first conversation with us.
To be eligible for enrollment, students must:
Every applicant will meet with an admissions advisor to: help answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine if this is the right path for your goals and lifestyle.
We’re looking for students who are:
Flexible. Focused. Built for real life.
Most programs are blended, combining scheduled on-campus classes with online coursework. This gives you the hands-on training you need — plus the flexibility to complete assignments at home.
You’ll typically take two classes every five weeks and should plan for 12–15 hours per week of homework and studying. Instructors also offer live virtual office hours for extra support.
Whether you’re working, parenting, or have other commitments — we’ll help make school work for you.
Q: What’s the difference between the Diploma and the Associate Degree?
The Animal Welfare diploma provides a foundation in animal care, shelter operations, and welfare practices—ideal for entry-level roles. The Animal Welfare Business Administration AAS degree builds on that knowledge with training in leadership, team management, and business operations to prepare you for supervisory positions in the field.
Q: What kind of student support is available?
You’ll have access to academic advising, tutoring, tech support, and career services throughout the program. Whether you’re looking for help with coursework or preparing for job placement, Stautzenberger’s team is here to support your success.
Q: Can I pursue the Associate Degree after earning my Diploma?
Yes. The associate degree is designed as a completion program for students who have already earned a diploma or certificate in an animal welfare-related field. You can finish both programs in as little as 16 months total.
Q: What do I need to apply for the Degree program?
To qualify, applicants must have completed a diploma or certificate in an animal welfare-related program from an accredited institution. A minimum 2.0 GPA is required, along with official transcripts confirming prior education.
Q: Are both programs 100% online?
Yes. Both the diploma and associate degree programs are delivered fully online, giving you the flexibility to complete your education from anywhere.
Next Session Starts: September 8, 2025
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Career-Driven Training in Animal Care and Business Leadership
Questions about our Maumee campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch
Our Animal Welfare Business Administration Associate Degree is designed for people who already have 61 credit hours in an animal welfare-related concentration.
Animal Welfare Management is a rapidly growing industry. According to the American Pet Products Association, pet owners are expected to spend over $143 billion on their pets this year.1
1 https://www.americanpet
products.org/
press_industrytrends.asp
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Animal Caretakers is projected to grow 29% in Ohio from 2020 to 2030.2
2 https://www.onetonline.org/
link/localtrends
/39-2021.00?st=OH&g=Go, retrieved on 4/10/2023.
Worried about how to afford animal welfare training? Let us help! Our friendly financial aid team is here to help you explore funding, scholarships, and grants to help fit your budget.
Maumee Campus
1796 Indian Wood Circle
Maumee, OH 43537
Phone: (419) 866-0261
OH REG# 99-10-1523T
Brecksville Campus
(Branch Campus of
Stautzenberger College Maumee)
8001 Katherine Blvd.
Brecksville, OH 44141
Phone (440) 838-1999
OH REG# 05-03-1754T
Satellite Location of Stautzenberger College Maumee
5105 Glendale Avenue
Toledo, OH 43614
