Pet Ownership & Careers/Pet Care Grooming & Care

Professional Pet Grooming Certificate 

Whether you're just starting out, switching careers, or expanding your pet care skills, the Pet Grooming Career Certificate Program offers a complete pathway into the professional grooming industry. This comprehensive program combines flexible online learning with hands-on training in a real grooming salon, allowing you to learn at your own pace and build job-ready skills step by step. Upon enrollment, you'll begin your journey with engaging online modules on breed identification, safety, anatomy, sanitation, and canine first aid/CPR. After successful completion of the online modules, you'll transition into our open lab salon, where you'll gain real-world grooming experience working with live pets under expert supervision. As you progress, earn digital badges that showcase your growing mastery from essential grooming tasks to advanced styling and emergency care. To enrich your experience even further, students also have access to exclusive in-person workshops offered throughout the year. These sessions cover specialty topics like hands-on canine CPR training, creative grooming, business basics, and advanced techniques led by guest professionals, giving you extra exposure to trending skills and industry insights. Graduates complete the program with a professional portfolio, a capstone credential, and the confidence to succeed in salons, vet clinics, mobile grooming services, or as independent business owners. 

Ready to learn more? Complete our online form or contact us at 319-398-1022.

Upcoming Offerings:
Begins upon registration, Online (Class ID 154481)

Click here to view a full list of upcoming offerings.

Tuition Assistance:
Yes. Full tuition assistance is available to support your career goals. Fill out our referral form at www.kirkwood.edu/cefunding.
*Some eligibility restrictions may apply.

Industry Credentials Earned:
None. This program does not award any nationally recognized certification upon completion.

Entrance Requirements/Prerequisites:
Students must be at least 18 years old.

Delivery Method:
Hands-on Lab

Length of Program and CEU Credits:
376 hours, 45.12 CEUs

Program Completion Requirements:
This is a pass/fail certificate. Student will need to demonstrate proficiency in all course competencies within the class.

Learning Outcomes:

• Style and finish pets according to breed standards and/or client preferences using safe and professional techniques.
• Demonstrate proficiency in clipper and basic scissor work across a variety of coat types and temperaments.
• Perform thorough pre-groom assessments to evaluate coat condition, skin health, and grooming needs.
• Safely handle pets of varying sizes, breeds, and behaviors using effective restraint and calming methods.
• Communicate professionally with clients, including reviewing service requests, documenting preferences, and verifying vaccination records.
• Apply fundamental first aid and CPR techniques in response to grooming-related emergencies.
• Maintain salon safety and sanitation standards through proper cleaning, disinfection, and equipment care.
• Accurately complete grooming records and client notes to support continuity of care and service quality.

Other Items to Know About this Course:
NA

Pathway to Credit Program:
None.

Related Information: 
www.kirkwood.edu/petgrooming