College Programs for Animal Conservation Careers

Inspire a Love for the Wild World of Conservation with edZOOcation

At edZOOcation, we're not just about education; we're about igniting a passion for wildlife, spreading joy through conservation, and turning your little one’s curiosity into a career that roars (or chirps, or slithers - whatever their preference!) If their heart skips a beat at the thought of spending their days surrounded by exotic creatures, you've landed in the right corner of the internet.

Ever wonder what their career options are and how they could get there? We're sharing insider tips on how your little one can spark their wildest dreams into a lifelong adventure. See our blog on animal careers as well!

Vocational Colleges

Santa Fe Teaching College in Gainesville, FL offers a Zookeeping program, and Moorpark College in Moorpark, CA provides an Animal Care and Training program. Jenny Curtis, our founder here at edZOOcation, attended Moorpark College and taught there as a faculty member.

EATM at Moorpark College: The Exotic Animal Training and Management (EATM) program at Moorpark College in California is highly regarded in the field of animal training and management, particularly for exotic animals. The intensive program is known for its hands-on approach and comprehensive curriculum, making it a great choice for students interested in pursuing careers related to exotic animal care and training.

Key Details about the EATM Program at Moorpark College:

• Exotic Animal Focus: Specializes in the training and management of exotic animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more. Students learn about the unique challenges and requirements of working with various species.
• Hands-On Experience: Emphasizes hands-on learning with direct animal interaction at the college's teaching zoo, America's Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College. This practical experience is invaluable for those pursuing careers in animal care and training.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers various topics related to animal behavior, training techniques, animal health, and conservation, providing a well-rounded education.
• Strong Industry Connections: Partners with many zoos, wildlife parks, and animal sanctuaries, offering students internships and job opportunities.
• Experienced Faculty: Staffed by faculty members with real-world expertise in exotic animal training and care.
• Job Placement: Strong track record of helping graduates find employment in the animal training and management industry.
• Transfer Opportunities: Many graduates transfer to four-year institutions to further their education in related fields such as zoology, wildlife biology, or animal behavior.
• Community Engagement: Offers educational programs and events at America's Teaching Zoo, allowing students to interact with visitors and promote conservation awareness.

Now known as The Animal Care and Training Program, this unique program combines academic classroom learning with hands-on experience within the Zoological Facility of The Teaching Zoo. Located on the campus of Moorpark College, The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College serves as the "living classroom" for the students of the Animal Care and Training Program. This collection provides the student with a unique opportunity to learn about domestic and non-domestic animals and to develop the skills necessary to work in facilities caring for all types of animals.

Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo: The Zookeeping program at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, FL is an exceptional program that prepares students for a career in zoo animal technology. This program provides a comprehensive education in the care and management of a variety of animal species, combining academic coursework with hands-on experience.

Key Details about the Zookeeping Program at Santa Fe College:

• Diverse Animal Care Training: Focuses on the care of a wide range of species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Students learn the specific needs and behaviors of each species, preparing them for various roles in animal care.
• Hands-On Learning: Offers extensive hands-on training at the college's teaching zoo, Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo. Students gain practical experience by working directly with animals, learning to manage their daily care, enrichment, and health monitoring.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential topics such as animal nutrition, behavior, husbandry, and conservation. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in zookeeping practices.
• Industry Connections: The program has strong ties with various zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation organizations. These connections provide students with internship and job placement opportunities, enhancing their career prospects.
• Experienced Faculty: The program is taught by faculty members who are experienced professionals in the field of zookeeping and animal care. Their expertise enriches the learning experience, offering students insights into the industry's best practices.
• Community Engagement: The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is open to the public and offers educational programs and events. Students have opportunities to engage with the community, promoting wildlife conservation and education.
• Job Placement: The program has a successful track record of graduates finding employment in the zookeeping and animal care industry. The skills and experience gained through the program are highly valued by employers.
• Transfer Opportunities: Graduates of the Zookeeping program often continue their education in related fields such as zoology, wildlife biology, or animal science at four-year institutions.

The Zookeeping program at Santa Fe College offers a unique blend of academic and practical experience, providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field of zoo animal technology. For more information about the program and admission requirements, visit their website.

15 Colleges and Universities With Animal-Focused Programs

Below are some colleges and universities in the United States known for their programs in zookeeping, zoology, wildlife studies, and conservation:

1. University of California, Davis (UC Davis) offers a strong program in wildlife, fish, and conservation biology, along with a renowned Wildlife Health Center and various research opportunities.
2. University of Florida has a robust program in wildlife ecology and conservation, partnering with the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo for hands-on experience.
3. Colorado State University Warner College of Natural Resources offers programs in fish, wildlife, and conservation biology with excellent research and fieldwork opportunities.
4. Oregon State University offers programs in wildlife science with a Wildlife Field Studies program providing hands-on experience.
5. Michigan State University Department of Fisheries and Wildlife offers programs in wildlife and conservation biology.
6. University of Wisconsin-Madison has a strong Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology with opportunities for research and conservation work.
7. Cornell University offers programs in animal science with a strong focus on wildlife conservation and research.
8. University of Georgia has a renowned Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources with programs in wildlife science.
9. North Carolina State University offers programs in fisheries, wildlife, and conservation biology with opportunities for research and internships.
10. Texas A&M University Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences offers programs in wildlife ecology and management.
11. University of Arizona offers programs in wildlife conservation and management.
12. University of Washington offers programs in environmental science and terrestrial resource management.
13. Humboldt State University, located in a biodiverse region of California, offers programs in wildlife management and conservation.
14. The Ohio State University offers programs in wildlife science with field research opportunities.
15. Clemson University offers programs in wildlife and fisheries biology with hands-on conservation experiences.

As we wrap up this wild expedition through the realm of conservation careers and educational resources, consider edZOOcation your compass to guide your little ones toward a future where passion, education, and conservation converge.

Are you ready to start your child's journey and spark their love for animals with an educational adventure like no other? Subscribe to edZOOcation today and begin the adventure of a lifetime!