How to choose?

Difference between Clinical animal behaviourist and Animal behaviour technician

Differences at a glance:

  1. Level of difficulty: master level vs bachelor level
  2. Study load: 60 ECTS vs 40 ECTS
  3. Difference in assessments: more formative and summative assignments in CAB
  4. Language demands: completely in English (CAB) or possibility to do (the assessment of) some modules in Dutch
  5. Difference in learning on behaviour problems: pathological vs insufficient/wrong learning experiences

Let’s have a look what could be the right course for you.

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Animal behaviour technician

  • Bachelor level
  • 40 ECTS – 10 workshop days
  • No formative assessments, less summative assessments, more multiple choice exams.
  • Language: all learning material is in English but you are able to submit assignments in Dutch when the corrector is Dutch-speaking. We try to form Dutch-speaking workshop groups. You are able to use a translation and/or explanatory dictionary on the exam.
  • Focus on giving advice to prevent behaviour problems
  • Focus on the treatment of behavior problems due to insufficient or wrong management and learning experiences.
  • Professional possibilities: you will use management and training exercises for rehabilitation of the animals under your care.  ABT’s may work in larger organisations or companies like a vet clinic, animal shelter, dog training center or run their own behavioural services.
  • Tuition fee (over two years): €5.200
Go to Animal behaviour technician
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Clinical animal behaviourist

  • High academic course level more in direction of a master level
  • 60 ECTS – 10 workshop days
  • Formative and summative assignments except for one module.
  • Language: all learning material is in English. All assessments (assignments, exams) are in English. You are able to use an explanatory (English) dictionary on the exam.
  • On top of giving advice on behaviour problems you will focus on developing a behavioural diagnosis of pathological behaviour
  • Learning to treat pathological behaviour through the use of psychopharmacology yourself if you are a veterinarian, or in cooperation with a veterinarian if you are not a veterinarian yourself
  • You will conduct a research project in group under supervision of an expert.
  • CAB’s may run their own behavioural referral practice or consider an academic career
  • Tuition fee (over two years): €7.800
Go to Clinical animal behaviour