Pet Grooming
Jump-start your grooming career with flexible online learning and hands-on salon experience. You’ll build essential skills in safety, breed recognition, sanitation, first aid, and grooming techniques, then practice on live pets with expert support.
You’ll finish with real-world experience, a professional portfolio, and the confidence to pursue opportunities in salons, mobile grooming, or your own business.
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Hybrid Learning Format
You’ll combine flexible online learning with hands-on training in our grooming salon. Start by building your knowledge online, then put your skills into practice through supervised grooming sessions with live pets.
376 hours
of hands-on and classroom instruction
7 months
A fast track to your new career
45.12 CEUs
earned upon successful completion
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Age Requirement
You must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.
Once enrolled, you'll also need to meet a few program requirements to participate in the online and hands-on training. See the Program Requirements section for details on dress code, required tools, and technology needs.
Credentials Earned
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Build Real Skills
Complete hands-on training in the grooming salon, gaining the techniques and confidence needed to groom pets safely and professionally.
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Earn Your Credential
Receive a Certificate of Completion, leaving you ready to enter the workforce as a professional pet groomer.
This certificate demonstrates your training to employers and can help you pursue employment opportunities in pet grooming and related pet care settings.
Program Information
In this program, you will learn how to:
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Grooming techniques
- Style and finish pets according to breed standards and/or client preferences using safe and professional techniques
- Demonstrate proficiency in clipper and basic scissor work across a variety of coat types and temperaments
- Perform thorough pre-groom assessments to evaluate coat condition, skin health, and grooming needs
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Animal handling and safety
- Safely handle pets of varying sizes, breeds, and behaviors using effective restraint and calming methods
- Apply fundamental first aid and CPR techniques in response to grooming-related emergencies
- Maintain salon safety and sanitation standards through proper cleaning, disinfection, and equipment care
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Client communication and records
- Communicate professionally with clients, including reviewing service requests, documenting preferences, and verifying vaccination records
- Accurately complete grooming records and client notes to support continuity of care and service quality
Upon completion, you'll be equipped with the hands-on skills, safety knowledge, and professionalism needed to succeed as a pet groomer.
Preparing for Class
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Age Requirement You must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrollment.
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Dress Code You'll need to purchase and wear a grooming smock, comfortable grooming pants, and closed-toe, non-slip shoes during all hands-on activities.
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Required Tools You'll need to purchase a specific set of professional grooming tools before being scheduled in the grooming salon for hands-on training. A complete list of required tools is available within the online course.
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Technology Requirements You can take classes on a computer using the most up-to-date version of Safari, Chrome, or Firefox. You can also use a tablet, with one stipulation: if you're on an Apple device, you'll need to access the class using Safari, and if you're on Android, you'll need to use Google Chrome.
For a successful experience in this program, you'll need to make sure you're able to meet the program requirements. For additional information, visit kirkwood.edu/petgrooming.
Pass /
Fail
Fail
Proficiency Requirement
This is a pass/fail certificate. You must demonstrate proficiency in all course competencies within the class.
“When I hit a rough patch in Anatomy and Physiology, Kirkwood staff helped me find the academic support I needed. I'm determined to bounce back next semester and show Anatomy who's boss! Professors like Bronwyn Stewart, who made me fall in love with writing, have made all the difference in my college experience.”
Thierrina Wolotoh,
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Tuition Assistance
You may qualify for tuition assistance!
Kirkwood connects students with a variety of funding resources for eligible FastTrack Career Certificate programs. Although not every program qualifies, those that do may be fully covered, up to 100% of your tuition costs.
Request Tuition Assistance
Start Your Journey
Follow these steps to take the next step toward your future.
1
Review Requirements
Start by reviewing the program details, requirements, and expectations on this page. Continue below for additional resources.
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2
Select a Schedule
Search for the program and browse available sections and start dates to find the schedule that works best for you.
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3
Enroll
Complete your registration to lock in your spot and start your new career journey.
Additional Questions?
Continuing Education Department
Kirkwood Center for Lifelong Learning