Page Purpose
This page contains a list of short courses that may help students make better and more informed career choices.
The main objective of OZT is to give you a broader choice when deciding on a career working with animals.
We do understand that you might still be uncertain, not only about the specific career but also the path to take. For example, do you want to study further after school, look for employment, or start your own business?
And, if you do take a specific path, how do you gain skills, knowledge, and experience?
We have designed a few courses that might assist in your choices.
NB: The OZT courses are non-accredited, and they are put together for animal-related careers only.
Basic stats for the short courses
Course List
Prerequisite Courses
First, complete the Prerequisite Course as it is required to unlock all of the other career decision courses.
Preparation Courses
To assist you in working out what the best path will be to prepare for a specific career.
How to Choose the right Career
The Prerequisite Course looks at the basic Steps to take when Choosing and Preparing for a career with animals. Here are the follow-up Courses to help plan your path:
Doing career research while still in High School
Students can use various methods to find out more about a career and gain valuable insights into their chosen field.
Here are several effective methods:
Informational Interviews
Conduct informational interviews with professionals who are already working in the field of interest. This allows students to learn about the day-to-day aspects of the job, required skills, and career paths.
Information Sessions
Attend information sessions hosted by companies, where representatives may discuss the organization’s culture, career opportunities, and what they look for in potential employees.
Online Research
Utilize online resources, including company websites, industry publications, and professional associations, to gather information about specific careers. Online platforms like LinkedIn can provide insights into professionals’ profiles and career trajectories.
Career Fairs
Attend career fairs and industry events to connect with professionals, recruiters, and representatives from companies in the field. This provides an opportunity for direct interaction and learning about different career options.
Career Counseling Services
Utilize career counseling services provided by educational institutions. Career counselors can offer guidance, assessments, and resources to help students explore and decide on suitable career paths.
Career Assessments
Take career assessments and personality tests to identify strengths, interests, and potential career matches. These tools can provide insights into suitable career paths based on individual preferences and attributes.
Networking Events
Attend networking events related to the chosen field. Networking provides the chance to meet professionals, ask questions, and learn more about the industry from those who have firsthand experience.
LinkedIn and Social Media
Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the field. Follow relevant companies and join industry groups to stay updated on trends and discussions.
Professional Associations
Join professional associations or organizations related to the field. Many associations offer resources, mentorship programs, and events that can help students gain a deeper understanding of the industry.
Internships and Volunteer Opportunities
Gain hands-on experience through internships or volunteer work. This allows students to test their interest in a particular career, build relevant skills, and make connections within the industry.
Job Shadowing
Arrange for job shadowing opportunities to spend time with professionals in their workplace. This firsthand observation provides a real-life perspective on the daily tasks and challenges of a particular job.
Online Courses and Workshops
Take online courses or attend workshops related to the chosen career. This can provide additional knowledge and skills while helping students assess their interest and aptitude for a particular field.
First Steps after High School
After high school, there are several paths you can pursue in order to work towards a specific career. The choice of path depends on the career goals, interests, and your individual and unique circumstances. Here are some of the different paths available:
- Take a Gap Year
- Entrepreneurship
- Entry-Level Job
- Study
- Combination of Work and Study
Gap Year
A gap year is a period of time when students take a break from their studies, usually after completing high school, to help them decide on a career.
Entrepreneurship
Certain careers don’t require conventional tertiary (after High School) studies. You might decide to enter the career by starting your own business directly after school.
NB! Courses under this topic will be general in nature, with more in depth Courses on specific business skills discussed in the original navigation Page of this Career/Species.
Entry-Level Jobs
Similar to the Entrepreneurship path, certain careers don’t require conventional tertiary studies to allow you to pursue them. Some of the careers with animals can be started directly after High School, with either no or very little extra studies.
Study
Certain animal-related studies do require further or tertiary studies. The career will also determine the level of studies, such as Vocational Qualification, College Diploma or Certificate, or University Degree (Bachelor, Master and Doctorate). You might also be able to study full-time or part-time, in person or online.
Combination of Work and Study
Certain careers might have additional steps to complete to assist you in gaining the required skills. The additional forms of training are normally facilitated by the employer.
