Zoo School - Frequently Asked Questions
Tuition and Fees
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Housing
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Attendance and Grading
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Transportation
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Admission and Enrollment
Application Procedures Downloadable Application Zoo Tech Program Catalog |
Classes and Workshops
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Best Time to Apply
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Is there a Cut Off Date for applications?
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Can my training be used in areas other than zookeeping?
- Many of our graduates have gone on to, or continued with, college.
- With the animal care experience they have received, the biology or zoology classes make sense or can be related to their experience.
- Graduates have also gone on to be veterinarians or certified vet techs.
- Some have opened their own animal related business, i.e. dog, horse, cat training, grooming or rescue.
- Also with the nonprofit training and public relations skills, the possibilities are endless.
- And then there are wildlife related jobs that are generally out in the field.
Is there work after Graduation?
- The Cat Tales staff is comprised of graduates from the Zoo School, but those positions are not frequently available and only offered to the highest qualified graduates.
- Positions at other zoos and facilities may be available (including some AZA accredited zoos) depending on the season, location and the graduates qualifications.
- Though we don't guarantee job placement of our graduates, we will do our best to assist those who do well in our program.
How much money does a zookeeper make?
- This of course depends on the location of the job, personal experience and education.
- It is also dependent on whether the facility is government run (i.e. city, state, federal, etc.) or private.
- The rule-of-thumb is that if you just have the minimum qualifications you will make a living wage for the location. The higher paying jobs come with experience, dedication and education.
Can my training be used in areas other than zookeeping?
- Many of our graduates have gone on to, or continued with, college.
- With the animal care experience they have received, the biology or zoology classes make sense or can be related to their experience.
- Graduates have also gone on to be veterinarians or certified vet techs.
- Some have opened their own animal related business, i.e. dog, horse, cat training, grooming or rescue.
- Also with the nonprofit training and public relations skills, the possibilities are endless.
- And then there are wildlife related jobs that are generally out in the field.
Is working around wildlife, especially the big cats, dangerous?
- Only if you don't follow the established safety protocol.
- Safety is strictly enforced for the sake of not only the students and staff, but also the animals.
What is the average day like?
- The average day consists of a lot of hard physical work including, but not limited to, habitat cleaning, grounds maintenance, food preparation and basic "household chores".
- Observation of the animals is a high priority, as are keeper talks.
- Academic classes often times include problem solving which is one of the main responsibilities of an animal care professional.
Are there volunteer or internship options?
- For more information Volunteer and Internship