Aquarium Maintenance Program
Fully online aquarium maintenance program turning fishkeeping into a career, leading to the ABCAMP certification in 6-12 months.
25350 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Suite 346, Valencia, CA 91355
Open enrollment year-round; students can enroll and begin studying at any time (self-paced online).
No experience required
Program Philosophy
Animal Behavior College's Aquarium Maintenance Program turns a passion for fishkeeping into a professional service career. The fully online program teaches the technical foundations of aquarium chemistry, husbandry, and system setup across freshwater, saltwater, reef, and pond systems, along with equipment servicing and species care. Business-building coursework helps students launch and grow an aquarium service, work with local fish stores, and scale to commercial clients, reflecting Animal Behavior College's mission of helping people help animals.
Started in 2020
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Fishkeeping enthusiasts wanting to start an aquarium service business
Self-paced online modules studied on the student's own schedule. This program is fully online with no externship; students progress through modules sequentially and complete a final exam.
Animal Behavior College Aquarium Maintenance Professional certification, freshwater/saltwater/pond and commercial system skills, business skills
Cost & Outcomes
Tuition is $999, payable in full or over a monthly payment plan. Students pay out of pocket or through ABC’s financing, and eligible students can use WIOA funding, Veterans education grants, MyCAA, or Vocational Rehabilitation.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
Fully online, self-paced coursework (no externship required)
Covers freshwater, saltwater/reef, pond, and commercial systems
In-depth species care, sourcing, and equipment maintenance
Business-building module for launching an aquarium service
Awards the Animal Behavior College Certified Aquarium Maintenance Professional (ABCAMP) credential
Dedicated Program Manager support
Day in the Life
- Self-paced online reading, videos, assignments, and module exams
- Guidance from a dedicated Program Manager
- Study of freshwater, saltwater, reef, pond, and commercial system setups
- Species care, sourcing, and equipment-maintenance coursework
- Business-building coursework to launch an aquarium service
Led by a Program Manager holding a Master's in Zoo and Aquarium Science and a Bachelor's in Conservation Science, with roughly 9 years of professional experience.
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
Highs & Lows
Mastering the technical chemistry and husbandry content and staying self-motivated to finish the fully self-paced online program.
Gaining the expertise to turn a hobby into a paid service business and the flexibility to study entirely online.
Employment Support
Business Building module: business model, marketing, and building a client base
Guidance on interfacing with local fish stores and industry professionals
Dedicated Program Manager support
ABC job board and alumni benefits
Hear From the Program
How It Works
Request program information or speak with an ABC Admissions Counselor (online form or 800-795-3294)
Submit an application for admission
Complete financial arrangements and choose a payment plan (financial aid application if applicable)
Verify a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent (or pass the Scholastic Level Exam) and complete the entrance exam if required
Sign the Enrollment Agreement and receive acceptance notification
Gain access to the online course materials and connect with your assigned Program Manager
Complete all online modules and pass the final exam to earn your ABCAMP certification
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.No. Most students begin with little or no professional experience; programs are designed for beginners.
Yes. The online coursework is self-paced so you can study around work, school, or family.
No. Externships are unpaid educational experiences that provide hands-on training before entering the workforce.
ABC is a California state-approved (BPPE) vocational school. It is not accredited by a USDE-recognized agency; the Veterinary Assistant Program is NAVTA-approved.
Programs prepare you for careers in the animal industry, though employment is not guaranteed.