Getting to a campus several times per week, searching for a parking spot and rushing to classes after a hard day's work or on a weekend can make learning a rather unpleasant experience. Enter AIAS's distance learning, e-education environment. On-line courses at AIAS are instructor-driven by an academic faculty with lesson plans designed for the working adult. On-the-ground seminars and internships can then further a student's education building on the theory that has already been earned.

Do I need to have a previous degree to take a certificate program?

All courses and programs require a high school diploma, competency in reading and writing English, and competency in the use of a personal computer, navigating the Internet and using e-mail. Specialty courses may have other requirements. Check courses for special requirements.

How will I learn?

AIAS e-education provides a collaborative learning environment where students can share their learning, life's experiences and viewpoints with their instructor and others students. Students will read assigned text and web-based material and conduct on-line and real world research. They will then demonstrate their knowledge of the subject material through writing assignments, on-line exams, and projects that are assessed by their instructors in an educational group-learning environment. Instructors are available online to provide individual mentoring, to review student assignments and to lead course discussion forums. Feedback is provided to students at each step of the way. Students participate from home or work and can schedule their readings, discussion postings and project assignments for days and times most convenient to them. Live online chats and presentations supplement and enhance the online learning experience.

How long do I have to complete a course?

AIAS works on a quarterly system, with four quarters per year. Most online courses are 12 weeks long. Please see a specific course for details. The web-based course material remains accessible to you for up to 3 months following the completion of a course.

How much work is involved?

Each course requires a different amount of time per week. You should plan on a minimum of 8-10 hours per week for most courses, around two hours per night, with weekends off.

Can I start a course at anytime?

No. AIAS works on a quarterly semester system. Courses start the first business day of the first week of: January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year. See the Academic Calendar and related registration pages for further information. See Course Catalog for course descriptions and course length.

Is everything online or are print materials involved? Some courses require a textbook or research articles that can be purchased over the Internet. Some material is provided with the course tuition.

How do I get help if I need it?

Telephone numbers and email addresses are provided for each course instructor. Additionally, toll and toll-free telephone numbers and email addresses are provided for the AIAS's student help desk, registration team, and our school director. You may contact any of these individuals directly at your convenience.

How am I graded?

AIAS uses on-line multiple-choice tests, research and essay writing, student-to-student discussion, and oral and practical examinations as part of its student evaluation process. Field projects are required for some upper-level courses. See the student manual for more information.

Do courses require students to be online at scheduled times?

One of the greatest benefits our online programs offer is their flexibility. None of our courses require you to be online at any specific scheduled time, except for occasional, scheduled live events. Ample notice is given for these and special, arrangements can be made for specific student needs. Weekly assignments may be completed within your schedule.

What educational level is required to enroll in a program or courses?

A high school diploma or GED is required,

What technology is required to participate in a program?

To participate in a program, you must have the following:

1. A computer and modem (56 kps or faster modem recommended).
   
2. Access to the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP).
   
3. Netscape Navigator 4.0 or higher; Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher.
   

Is Internet access required?

Yes, full connection to the Internet-with complete access to the World Wide Web-is required for all AIAS online programs. Access may be available through your own Internet service provider or through your workplace.

Can I access AIAS from work?

Access to the Internet from the workplace often occurs through a "firewall," a security device that protects your company's computer system. Your company's network administrator can contact AIAS's computer technical help desk at 1-877.229.5450 to work out technical details to enable you to access the site from work.

How do I register for an AIAS program?

Registration for all programs is available online in our registration area several weeks before the start of classes each quarter. Registration questions? Send e-mail to .

How much do AIAS programs cost?

Courses are US $375 per 16 Clock Hours. For specific cost information, you may click on the program that interests you. To inquire about group discounts for not-for-profit organizations, send e-mail to:

How can I be notified about new programs offered by AIAS?

Go to www.worldofanimalscience.com and register for e-mail notification

Where is AIAS located?

AIAS exists in a virtual, Web-based Internet environment. Our instructors and students live throughout the United States and in other countries. Our ground-based address is:

American Institute for Animal Science, Inc.
2800 University Avenue, 318
West Des Moines, IA 50266-1258 USA

Is AIAS a state-licensed school?

AIAS is licensed as a private school by the State of Iowa, Secretary of State, Postsecondary and Instructional School Programs. As of Jan 2005, AIAS also has been granted a provisional license by the Florida Department of Education, Commission for Independent Education to operate a new degree granting college via our online learning platform. Visit: American College of Applied Science for more information.

Is AIAS accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting organization?

See above.

Can I earn continuing education units (CEUs) when I successfully complete AIAS courses?

Yes. AIAS is an Approved Provider with the International Association of Continuing Education and Training.

I plan to begin the program in canine behavior counseling. Is this program recognized by any domestic or international professional association for dog behavior specialists to which I can apply for a professional credential?

Yes. AIAS is an Approved Education Provider (AEP) with the Asocciation of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors, a not-for-profit, internationally-recognized peer-review membership organization.