Introducing: Penn Foster’s Online Training Programs

While PCDI is no longer accepting enrollments in our Occupational Therapy Aide Program, we’re excited to introduce you to our partner school, Penn Foster.

PCDI Canada and Penn Foster Logos

Penn Foster doesn’t offer an Occupational Therapy Aide Program, but we do offer a variety of healthcare training programs that could be a good fit for you!

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Why Choose Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you launch, accelerate, and thrive in their careers for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School. The program you choose is structured to fit your learning needs so you can achieve your goals, and is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career preparation for the in-demand job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a pathway towards your career goals.

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How Penn Foster Works

  • Programs are completely online and self-paced
  • Enroll any time – no applications or deadlines
  • 24/7 access to Learner Center to study anywhere, anytime
  • Supportive instructors and staff

What Programs Does Penn Foster Offer?

Penn Foster offers a variety of career and college programs that are focused on helping you take the first steps toward a new career! If you’re interested in working in the healthcare field, some programs that could help you take the first step toward a new job in the industry include:

VIEW ALL HEALTHCARE PROGRAMS  

Introducing: Penn Foster’s Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor Career Diploma Program

While PCDI is no longer accepting enrollments in our Dog Obedience Program, we’re excited to introduce you to our partner school, Penn Foster.

PCDI Canada and Penn Foster Logos

If you're interested in becoming a dog trainer or instructor, Penn Foster's online Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor Career Diploma Program can help you prepare for this career.

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Get Your Paws on a Career You’ll Love

Penn Foster’s Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor Career Diploma can help you prepare to take the next steps toward the job you want working with animals. Learn the skills you need through flexible online courses you can do on your schedule.

Why Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you obtain skills and achieve their career goals for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School. Every course is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career prep for the job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a guide towards your career goals.

What You'll Learn in Penn Foster’s Online Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor Career Diploma Program

  • The senses of a canine and know how they function.
  • Common dog behavior problems, strategies for prevention and treatment, and the pros and cons of punishment versus reinforcement.
  • How to define dog testing, state the functions of the American Kennel Club, and list its seven major groups of dog breeds.
  • How to recommend behavior modification plans for dogs in the three fundamental behavior scenarios.

Penn Foster’s Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor Curriculum

This program gives you the skills you need to start training dogs. Once you finish the program, you should be able to confidently work with clients and their dogs. The curriculum includes:

  • How Dogs Learn
  • Behavior Analysis
  • House Training and Crate Training
  • Dog Breed Selection
  • Search and Rescue Training
  • Agility Training
See Full Curriculum  

Learn More About the Penn Foster Experience

At Penn Foster, we think online learning can make a big difference in people's lives, and it should be available to everyone. That's why we've made our programs affordable and tailored to fit your needs. You can learn and improve your skills for the job you want, all at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Dog Obedience Trainer/Instructor FAQs

Can I make a career out of dog training? 

It’s possible to make a career out of dog training, whether you start your own training business or work for a pet store or dog training facility. With more and more people considering their furry friends to be close members of the family, their pet’s health and wellness is a priority. For dog owners, ensuring that their dog is trained and doesn’t show bad behavior is a vital part of raising a happy animal.

Are dog trainers in demand? 

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 16% increase in available jobs in dog training by 2031.* That means there’s no better time than now to start preparing for a career as a dog trainer.

What will I learn in this course? 

Penn Foster’s dog training courses cover essential topics such as how dogs learn, conditioning, house training, and more. Through understanding these animals' personality and social behavior, trainers can effectively plan out progressive training programs for clients.

Will taking this course help me train my dog? 

The course is designed to prepare students to train all manners of dogs and to understand the different veterinary issues, behavioral problems, or training methods that work best with specific breeds. Penn Foster's Online Dog Training Program can prepare you to train your own dog, though skills learned in the program may not be applicable to training other household pets.

Sources:

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. "Animal Care and Service Workers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Accessed October 4, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.

Introducing: Penn Foster’s Dental Assistant Career Diploma Program

While PCDI is no longer accepting enrollments in our Dental Assistant Program, we’re excited to introduce you to our partner school, Penn Foster.

PCDI Canada and Penn Foster Logos

If you're interested in becoming a Dental Assistant, Penn Foster’s online Dental Assistant Career Diploma Program can help you prepare for this career.

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Take the Next Steps Towards a Career You'll Love

Penn Foster’s Dental Assistant Career Diploma can help you prepare to take the next steps toward the job you want and get you ready to take the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam and the Infection Control Exam (ICE) from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). Study foundational skills through flexible online courses you can do on your schedule.

Why Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you obtain skills and achieve their career goals for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School. Every course is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career prep for the job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a guide towards your career goals.

What You'll Learn in Penn Foster’s Online Dental Assistant Career Diploma Program

  • How to prevent the spread of disease in a dental office.
  • Best ways to assist the dentist or hygienist.
  • Front office responsibilities like bookkeeping, appointment scheduling, billing, and more.
  • The goals of preventive dentistry and how to prevent cavities and oral diseases.

Penn Foster’s Dental Assistant Curriculum

This program gives you the skills you need to start working in a dental office. Once you finish the course, you'll be able to take the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam and the Infection Control Exam (ICE) from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). Your online classes include:

  • Dental Terminology, Anatomy, and Charting
  • Preventative Dentistry and Ethics
  • Dental Medications and Materials
  • Dental Specialties
  • Dental Front Office
See Full Curriculum  

Learn More About the Penn Foster Experience

At Penn Foster, we think online learning can make a big difference in people's lives, and it should be available to everyone. That's why we've made our programs affordable and tailored to fit your needs. You can learn and improve your skills for the job you want, all at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Dental Assistant FAQs

How much does a dental assistant make an hour? 

While salary can vary based on experience, the state you live in, and your employer, the average hourly pay for dental assistants in the workforce in 2021 was $18.59 per hour, or $38,660 per year.*

What do dental assistants do? 

In a typical dental office, dental assistants are those who support dentists and dental hygienists. A dental assistant's daily tasks can vary and include both administrative work and patient support. On a regular day, dental assistants take a patient’s medical history, explain procedures, and assist dentists during procedures. As a dental assistant, you can also expect to be responsible for preparing treatment rooms, including sterilizing medical equipment and tools and preparing patients for x-rays.

What does it take to become a dental assistant? 

Becoming a dental assistant often requires specific education and training. Depending on your state's regulations, you may also be required to pass a licensing or certification exam. Once you’re hired at an office, you may also complete a period of hands-on training under the supervision of an office manager or experienced dental assistant.

How long does it take to complete a Dental Assistant Program Online? 

Many traditional dental assistant training programs can take up to one year to complete, but with Penn Foster’s self-paced online coursework, you can prepare to take the next step toward a career around your schedule and on the timeline that works for you. This course can help you prepare for industry certification exams, such as the National Entry Level Dental Assistant.

Do I need to be certified to become a dental assistant? 

Certification requirements for dental assistants vary by state. You can find state-specific requirements via the Dental Assisting National Board website. Penn Foster’s Dental Assistant Program will prepare you to sit for the three exams needed for full NELDA (National Entry Level Dental Assistant) certification from DANB: the Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam, the Infection Control Exam (ICE), and the Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology (AMP) exam. Because our program is accredited by the DEAC, Penn Foster learners can sit for NELDA certification without needing 300 hours of dental assisting work experience.

Sources:

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Dental Assistants." Accessed October 3, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.

Introducing: Penn Foster’s Event Planning Career Diploma Program

While PCDI is no longer accepting enrollments in our Event Planning Program, we’re excited to introduce you to our partner school, Penn Foster.

PCDI Canada and Penn Foster Logos

If you're interested in becoming an event planner, Penn Foster’s online Event Planning Career Diploma Program can help you prepare for this career.

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Throw a Party Like It’s Your Job

Penn Foster’s Event Planning Career Diploma can help you prepare to take the next steps toward the job you want as an event planner. Learn the skills you need to launch and grow your business through flexible online courses you can do on your schedule.

Why Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you obtain skills and achieve their career goals for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School. Every course is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career prep for the job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a guide towards your career goals.

What You'll Learn in Penn Foster’s Online Event Planning Career Diploma Program

  • Understanding the event planner's role and the importance of client consultations in establishing event budgets, scale, and themes.
  • Selecting the right vendors, caterers, and other services while working with venues.
  • Handling event organization and oversight for various events: weddings, fundraisers, parties, anniversaries, galas, and beyond.
  • Launching and growing a thriving event planning business, learning the value of marketing strategies and professional networking.

Penn Foster’s Event Planning Curriculum

As part of our Event Planning curriculum, you'll learn the skills you’ll need to prepare for entry-level jobs as an event planner. Your online classes include:

  • Foundations of Event Planning
  • Planning the Big Event
  • Types of Events
  • Setting Yourself Up for Success
See Full Curriculum  

Learn More About the Penn Foster Experience

At Penn Foster, we think online learning can make a big difference in people's lives, and it should be available to everyone. That's why we've made our programs affordable and tailored to fit your needs. You can learn and improve your skills for the job you want, all at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Event Planner FAQs

Where can I work as an event planner? 

Event planners can work on-site for convention centers, hotels, and other hospitality businesses, and they spend their time between the office and event locations. You can also develop your own client and vendor relationships to start your own event planning business.

What is the average salary of an event planner? 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average entry-level salary for an event planner with a bachelor's degree was $52,560 per year in 2022.* Salary can vary based on your education, work experience, the company you work for, and even the state in which you live.

Can you become an event planner without a degree? 

Most event planners need some background in the field. While a college degree may not be necessary to become an event planner, a certification through a career training program can help you stand out and prepare to be a confident and credentialed candidate when applying for jobs.

Why should I get an event planner certification? 

Industry credentials can help you stand out from the crowd of other applicants and assure potential employers you have the skills to perform your tasks. Certification is separate from education, so many event planners go through training and work in the field before sitting for any applicable exams.

What is the average job description for an event planner? 

Job descriptions for open event planner positions include skills like:

  • Effective time management
  • Negotiating with clients and vendors
  • Having an eye for detail

Building your skills in areas like business management, customer service, and financial planning can be beneficial to someone working in this role.

Sources:

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. "Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Accessed October 4, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.

Introducing: Penn Foster’s Administrative Assistant Career Diploma Program

While PCDI is no longer accepting enrollments in our Administrative Assistant Program, we’re excited to introduce you to our partner school, Penn Foster.

PCDI Canada and Penn Foster Logos

If you're interested in becoming an administrative assistant, Penn Foster’s online Administrative Assistant Career Diploma Program can help you prepare for this career.

LEARN MORE  

Take the Next Steps Towards a Career You'll Love

Penn Foster’s Administrative Assistant Career Diploma can help you prepare to take the next steps toward the job you want. Learn business and administrative skills through flexible online courses you can do on your schedule.

Why Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you obtain skills and achieve their career goals for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School. Every course is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career prep for the job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a guide towards your career goals.

What You'll Learn in Penn Foster’s Online Administrative Assistant Career Diploma Program

  • How to keep paper and computer files organized and arrange schedules properly to make sure an office runs smoothly.
  • How to read, sort, and respond to everyday messages, reports, and emails, deciding who needs to see them and planning to share them.
  • How to use software like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to make documents, such as reports, letters, and financial statements.
  • How to talk with suppliers, buy what an office needs, manage storage rooms or libraries, and gather information from different places.

Penn Foster’s Administrative Assistant Curriculum

In our online Administrative Assistant courses, you'll build the foundational skills and knowledge needed for performing administrative assistant jobs in a variety of office settings — including corporate businesses, law firms, banks, hospitals, and more. Your online classes include:

  • Workplace Communication Skills
  • Administrative Office Procedures
  • Computer Applications
  • Bookkeeping and Office Management
See Full Curriculum  

Learn More About the Penn Foster Experience

At Penn Foster, we think online learning can make a big difference in people's lives, and it should be available to everyone. That's why we've made our programs affordable and tailored to fit your needs. You can learn and improve your skills for the job you want, all at your own pace and on your own schedule.

Administrative Assistant FAQs

Where could I find work as an administrative assistant? 

Administrative assistants are needed across various industries and office setups, from big corporations to law firms and some medical practices. The demand for skilled and reliable office support staff remains steady, making this an ideal time to start pursuing an entry-level administrative assistant position. Opportunities exist in fields like social services, education, and government agencies, giving you options to find the right fit for your career.

What are the main tasks of an administrative assistant? 

Day-to-day responsibilities typically include drafting emails and letters, managing incoming communications efficiently, and organizing meeting schedules. Depending on the specific office environment, you might also handle duties such as scheduling appointments, arranging travel plans, and managing records.

What's the typical salary for an administrative assistant? 

Salaries can vary based on factors like your employer, experience, and location. However, according to national averages from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level administrative assistants can expect a median annual salary of $44,080 or $21.19 per hour.*

What are the top three administrative skills? 

Administrative assistants play a crucial role in maintaining office efficiency. The most important skills include organization, effective written and verbal communication, and familiarity with common office software like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Our online Administrative Assistant Training Program can help you develop these essential skills for success in the field.

Sources:

*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, "Secretaries and Administrative Assistants". Accessed October 3, 2023.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.

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Why Choose Penn Foster?

 

130+

Years of
experience

 

100+

Online training
programs

 

97%

Learner
satisfaction*

What is Penn Foster?

Penn Foster has been on a mission to help people like you launch, accelerate, and thrive in their careers for more than 130 years. We provide students with a quality education that fits their busy lifestyle and budget, offering over 100 self-paced, career-relevant programs across our College, Career School, and High School.

The program you choose is structured to fit your learning needs so you can achieve your goals, and is designed to work with your schedule, anytime, anywhere you want to study. With a focus on relevant skills and career preparation for the in-demand job you’re after, Penn Foster can help you graduate with confidence and help provide a pathway towards your career goals. View featured programs below.

*Based on data from a 2024 Penn Foster Group End of Program Survey.