Program Schedule & Attendance Expectations
The Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program consists of:
Part One — Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations
- Weeks 1–24
- 720 training hours
Part Two — Advanced Zookeeping & Wildlife Management
- Weeks 25–48
- 720 training hours
Total Program Length
- 48 weeks
- 1,440 total training hours
Students typically participate in approximately 30 training hours per week, generally scheduled across three 10-hour training days or the equivalent.
Training schedules may include:
- weekdays
- weekends
- holidays
- early morning start times
- seasonal schedule adjustments
Training Environment & Scheduling
Because the program operates within a working wildlife sanctuary and teaching zoo, schedules are designed around:
- animal care needs
- facility operations
- seasonal conditions
- instructional activities
Training may include:
- hands-on practical instruction
- online coursework
- webinars
- guided observation
- group instruction
Students are typically scheduled for consistent weekly training days at the beginning of the program.
The Wildlife Center is operational year-round, and students should be prepared for outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
Time Off & Attendance
Students may receive scheduled breaks during each program part. Additional time away from training may occasionally be considered for approved circumstances.
All required training hours, coursework, and assigned responsibilities must be completed in order to successfully progress through the program.
Missed training time may require make-up hours or additional assignments prior to course completion.
Failure to meet attendance, coursework, safety, or participation requirements may affect a student’s ability to continue in the program.
Outside Employment
Because of the physical demands and scheduling requirements of the program, outside employment with conflicting schedules is not recommended.
Students should be prepared for early mornings, physically active outdoor work, and variable operational scheduling throughout the year.
Program Operations
Cat Tales Wildlife Center operates year-round, including weekends and most holidays.
Because animal care responsibilities continue every day of the year, students should expect training schedules that may occasionally include holidays, including either Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day as part of rotational animal care coverage.
Holiday scheduling is coordinated in advance whenever possible and reflects the real-world operational responsibilities of professional animal care environments.
Additional schedule adjustments may occur due to:
- weather conditions
- animal care emergencies
- operational needs
- facility scheduling
Official Termination Date
A student’s official termination date is determined according to Academy policy and Washington State vocational school regulations.
Termination may occur through:
- voluntary withdrawal
- dismissal for violation of school policies
- extended absence without notice
- failure to meet attendance or participation requirements
For complete attendance and termination policies, students should refer to the official Course Catalog and Enrollment Agreement.