Is ASCT K9 and ASCT Education the same thing?

ASCT Education was established to operate alongside but independant of ASCT National K9. ASCT K9 offers specific, elite K9 training and national K9 certifications. ASCT Education only offers the credit evaluation for the degree programs. In simple terms, ASCT K9 teaches all of the K9 developmental classes, ASCT Education monitors the general education and overall quality and credit status.

Is there a campus I need to attend?

There is no campus involved in the degree ptogram. Classes are held around the nation at different facilities and different times of the year.

Does ASCT teach online courses?

There are a few of our leadership and management classes that can be taken online through direct instructor contact; however, the majority of the classes are taught in a classroom or training field setting.

Does ASCT Education accept the GI Bill?

At the current time, because we are not a campus facility, we do not apply GI Bill status to students. However, we are working on that to better serve our beloved veterans.

Are the classes hands on? Will I actually handle dogs?

Absolutely. Depending upon your needs and objectives, you may end up having trained quite a number of dogs by the time graduation rolls around.

How long are the classes?

General education classes are typically offered at community college settings and usually meet for 3 hours per week, or twice per week, for a semester. K9 Development Programs typically are taught in a thorough format school. Most K9 classes are of 16 - 24 hour duration and take place over a 3-day time frame. In essence, K9 classes are offered as intense clinics whereby testing is issued at the end of the class for credit.

Are the classes held in my area?

Classes are held in different parts of the country, at different times. For specific classes being held, refer to your K9 Instructor, ASCT president, or check the ASCT Website under upcoming conferences.

Are all of the classes available all the time?

K9 Developmental Science classes are offered on an annual basis and change each year. Most level 100 classes are taught each year. But level 600 classes may only be offered every other year. Most students will find that there is plenty of time and classes available each year to steadily continue a strong paced education.

I already have a degree. Do I get credit for my previous education?

Yes. The ASCT Division of Education will review your transcripts for applicable credits that can be used to fulfill your K9 Developmental Science degree. Most students holding B.S. or B.A degrees will find all general education and a large portion of electives to be applied.

I have law enforcement experience. Does ASCT credit any law enforcement classes?

Yes. Many P.O.S.T. academy classes are credited towards ASCT degree status. Check with ASCT Certification Board to find out which classes will credit.

What happens during internships? Where are internships located?

Students have two paths for internships. The first option is that the student can visit an ASCT instructor and have that instructor mentor them during the internship. Option two is available to select students who have a source of advanced instruction near them and wish to intern at that location or with that trainer. For example, a student might want to internship at Seeing Eye, Inc. and work with dogs for the blind.

How long is the internship?

Most internship last for 4 - 6 weeks.

How much do internships cost?

Internships cost a class registration fee of $60.00

Do I get paid during an internship?

No. However, your education will pay off in dividends.

Is there a place for me to stay during internship or do I need a hotel?

That depends on the internship you are approved for. Most interns have to pay for housing and food during internships. A few sponsors will feed the intern lunch each day.

Do I have to get the B.S. degree before moving on to the Masters?

Yes. The B.S. is awarded after 120 credits. Upon completion and graduation, you will be required to take a graduate entrance exam, which will sum up all of your B.S. knowledge. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will be admitted into the graduate program.

How do I get graded for the K9 classes?

Classes will have exams. A graded score of a minimum of C is passing.

Are there final exams?

Sort of. Each class has one exam - that is the final exam.

Do I have to pay to enroll in the degree program?

Students wishing to enroll and have all credits assigned to transcripts are required to pay an enrollment registration fee of $45.

After I enroll, what is the next step?

After enrollment, you will be paired with a certified ASCT instructor who will act on your behalf to ASCT and make certain that you are properly guided. Then, you will receive direct support from one of the ASCT educational advisors who will help you plan your schedule and complete applicable transcript processing.

How much are the classes?

General education classes typically range near $60 per class. ASCT classes are taught as intense educational clinics and range from $60.00 - $295.00.

How much will the degree cost me overall?

Your entire education: from entering freshman through B.S. graduate will cost you between $5000 - $6000.

Is there a graduation fee?

Yes. Upon filing for your degree, there will be a charge of $355.00

Is the graduation fee included in the cost range?

Yes.

I want to train working dogs. Do I have to complete the entire degree before doing that?

No. In fact, most students will find that they have suitable working knowledge in a relatively quick time, depending on the area of training you wish to pursue.

Could I learn to train police dogs in the first year?

Yes. However, the further education you have and the more experience you carry will make you successful.