FAQs
How long is the program? The SSCS Canine Studies program runs 8 or 10 weeks, depending on the calendar. For specific information about the session(s) you’re interested in, see Admissions.
The school is state licensed; why aren’t financial aide and alternative loans available at this time? Unfortunately, the recent economic climate has resulted in Sallie Mae suspending all new loans to schools licensed after 2006. On the advisement of Sallie Mae, the SSCS checks the federal loan offices every six months for updates. While no new loan options are anticipated in the future, the website will be updated immediately if this should change. For more information, see Policy & Loan Info.
How come some classes are filled to capacity whereas others are only partially full? The SSCS prides itself on its personal application review process. Because of the commitment to preserving the quality of the in-class experience as well as the reputation of the school itself, the program may not be suited for all applicants. As a result, the SSCS may deny the applications of a varying number of applicants per session. This number ranges greatly from session to session resulting in varying class sizes. Maximum class size for the main program is 12, maximum for hands-on portion is 8.
Has the professional companion animal field been impacted by the struggling economy or is it still realistic to consider a career in the area? Despite the decline in many areas of commerce, companion animal ownership industries seem greatly unaffected. The category has enjoyed continued growth year over year throughout the past decade. A decline or slowing of this growth is not anticipated at this time.
Is the Canine Studies Program a good choice for me if I want to work in the service dog/therapy dog field? Graduates of the SSCS enjoy careers in a broad range of specialties including service/therapy dog work. Because of the very broad and complicated structure of the therapy/service field, prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the SSCS to discuss goals and answer questions prior to applying.
Why does the SSCS require applicants to have completed at least one year of college-level education before applying? The material presented during the CCS program is advanced and it draws from many disciplines including cognitive science, animal behavior, learning theory, behaviorism, etc.. Further, the program is intensive and students are presented with ethically challenging and emotionally provocative material. The SSCS has found that applicants who have had at least a little college tend to fare better in this setting and help to promote a safe, smart, progressive classroom environment. Exceptions to this requirement are considered on a case-by-case basis at the time of application.
What kind of training does the SSCS focus on: traditional/military/pack theory/positive/animal learning theory? SSCS Director, Cristine Dahl, is uniquely qualified to teach a variety of methodologies spanning all current and past popular training techniques. A crossover trainer herself, Cristine has done it all and can speak to both competing and complementary training approaches. While theoretical and practical material taught at the SSCS spans several schools of practice (collectively dubbed the Cristine Dahl Method), the school’s dedication to proven humane training is unwavering.
What is the relationship between Seattle Dogworks and the SSCS? Cristine Dahl, the Director and Founder of the SSCS, founded the Seattle Dogworks Training & Education Studio and the programs, curriculum, and culture of Dogworks. However, the SSCS and Dogworks operate as separate entities and the Dogworks studio is managed by independent staff. Because of the shared mission of both Dogworks and the SSCS, numerous supportive and auxiliary opportunities are available to students and graduates of the Canine Studies program at the SSCS. These opportunities are facilitated by the school itself in partnership with Seattle Dogworks.
I already know a lot about dogs. How will a CCS (Certificate in Canine Studies) serve me in the canine behavior field? Because of the unregulated nature of the profession, the vast majority of present day trainers and behavior modification practitioners lack formal education and thus adequate ability. Great strides are being made to overcome these deficits and the SSCS is playing a key role in that evolution. The detailed answer to this question will vary from student to student. However, all students earning the CCS have proven a superior understanding of animal learning theory and companion canine behavior compared to the majority of trainers and behavior experts currently in the field.
I want to visit the facility, speak to past/current students and observe classes at the studio before I apply. Is this possible? Yes, yes, and YES! We are always delighted to meet with students considering application to view The Facility and answer any questions the applicant has. A current list of Graduates is also available for serious students considering application and is provided upon request. Students are also encouraged to arrange a visit during an actual SSCS class when in session. Please note that because of the professional relationship between the SSCS and Seattle Dogworks, observation of the Dogworks public classes is not available to prospective students.
Why shouldn’t I pay for an apprenticeship, mentorship, or other close-learning experience with another trainer or facility? The SSCS stands alone as the only licensed school of its kind in the state of Washington. It is currently against state regulations for any non-licensed facility or individual to charge money for an apprenticeship, internship, or other close-learning opportunity. The SSCS does offer graduate internship and externship opportunities but we do not charge for these. We encourage those interested in behavior as a career to seek new learning opportunities and we do not discourage participating in non SSCS apprentice-type opportunities offered at no cost. Our position stands because we strongly believe those in established roles in the field should be mentoring others to perpetuate the continued evolution of the field.
If you have questions not answered here, please contact us.
