Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Program

Develop hands-on skills in daily animal husbandry, nutrition, habitat maintenance, sanitation, behavioral observation, and welfare-focused care. Students learn how professional animal care supports both physical health and psychological well-being in captive wildlife settings.

Learn how enrichment supports natural behaviors, problem-solving, activity levels, and overall animal welfare. Students explore observation-based animal care, stress indicators, behavioral thresholds, environmental preferences, and species-specific enrichment techniques.

Gain experience working within professional safety protocols designed to protect both animals and caregivers. Training includes protected contact principles, emergency procedures, situational awareness, communication, and safe facility operations around large carnivores and wildlife.

Build the communication, accountability, and teamwork skills required in professional animal care environments. Advanced students develop mentoring and leadership experience while supporting daily operations and collaborating within a team-based setting.

Understand the daily functions that keep zoological and wildlife facilities operating effectively. Students gain exposure to recordkeeping, diet preparation, inventory systems, exhibit maintenance, scheduling, guest services, fundraising support, and operational organization.

Explore the role education plays in wildlife conservation and public awareness. Students participate in guest interactions, conservation messaging, educational presentations, and learning experiences designed to foster respect and understanding for wildlife.

Examine the responsibilities involved in caring for non-releasable and rescued wildlife within a captive environment. Topics include animal welfare ethics, conservation education, responsible stewardship, professional conduct, and the evolving role of modern wildlife facilities.