Qualification Approval and Accreditation

What makes the COAPE Diploma stand out above the rest?
Here are some of our Qualification Approvals and Accreditations

South African Veterinary Council (SAVC)

The COAPE Diploma is the only Animal Behaviour Diploma that is independently accredited through the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) as CPD courses for structured points.*

SAVC CPD Point Allocation

Course Name	Points Awarded
DogWise	8 CPD Points – Accreditation no AC/0297/20
ThinkBehaviour	8 CPD Points – Accreditation no AC/0353/20
ThinkNutrition	4 CPD Points – Accreditation no AC/0744/21
African Wild Dog Behaviour	8 CPD points – Accreditation no AC/-359/20
African Lion Behaviour	5 CPD Points – Accreditation no AC/0352/20
Diploma in Animal Behaviour	38 CPD points – Accreditation no AC/0330/20
Cheetah Behaviour	5 CPD points – Accreditation no AC/0976/22

*40 Structured CPD Points is the maximum amount of points that can be awarded to any one course by the SAVC. CPD points for SAVC accredited courses are only valid for veterinarians and para-veterinary personnel in South Africa.

Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA)

FGASA is an esteemed organisation that sets high standards for professionalism, education, and training in the tourism sector, with a particular focus on wildlife and nature experiences in Southern Africa.

This exciting collaboration positions COAPE as a proud member of the esteemed group of FGASA-endorsed Specialist Delivery Partners, which means that students who have successfully completed any one of our wildlife courses will be FGASA accredited.

COAPE Association of Behaviourists and Trainers International (CABTi)

The CABTi is one of the largest specifically qualified associations for pet behaviourists and trainers worldwide, with membership open only to behaviourists and trainers who have attained their COAPE Diploma. Consulting with members of the CABTi offers all pet owners a guarantee of quality when seeking help with the treatment of behaviour problems or in training.

All members work under a strict Code of Practice which includes the assurance that coercive or punitive techniques and equipment are never used in treatment. CABTi members maintain their state-of-the-art competence and knowledge through attending various Continuing Professional Development courses and have ongoing access to a wealth of expertise and support via a lively Members Association of over 200 qualified members. You can be assured of the very best of qualified and up to date help with a CABTi member.

International Companion Animal Network – ICAN (www.companionanimal.network)

ICAN was founded by a group of prominent organisations and education providers who use and recommend purely force-free methods. They originally formed in order to meet the profound need for solidarity, mutual support, communication and cooperation between professionals working in the animal behaviour and training realm.

COAPE Diploma graduates automatically become members of ICAN as Certified Animal Behaviourists (CAB).

How can people recognise that you have a solid understanding of both behavioural science and the practical skills required to work in the field of animal behaviour and training?

There are many courses available in animal behaviour and training but how do you know which one to choose? Well, this depends on what your aims and ambitions are. If you want to improve your knowledge and understanding of your pet, then there are probably many courses that could provide this for you.

However, if you want to work within the pet behaviour therapy and training industry then the COAPE Diploma is more likely to fulfil your education needs. The COAPE Diploma is a rigorous course for anyone who is serious about studying Animal Behaviour, and who wants a recognised, well respected qualification in the industry.