Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program
The Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program is carefully designed to build a comprehensive skill set in animal care, wildlife health, and welfare. Our program not only develops technical expertise but also places strong emphasis on teamwork and relationship-building, both essential for thriving in a professional animal care and conservation setting.
In addition to mastering animal care skills, students gain a thorough understanding of zoo facility operations. The program explores both the core infrastructure and public-facing functions of a wildlife center, equipping students with insights into its organization and dynamics. This holistic approach enables our students to understand every aspect of facility management, a perspective crucial for long-term success in the field.
Through a well-rounded curriculum and immersive hands-on training, the Zookeeping & Wildlife Management Certification Program prepares aspiring professionals to excel in the dynamic field of wildlife care. Focusing on animal welfare, effective teamwork, and facility organization, we equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in the lives of animals and contribute to broader conservation efforts.
Program Highlights
Part One: Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations provides a foundation in understanding animal care, public relations, and the teamwork needed for a professional wildlife management environment.
The Introduction to Zookeeping & Facility Operations course spans 24 weeks, with 30 hours per week, totaling a minimum of 720 hours of practical internship training. Students receive hands-on and virtual instruction in animal husbandry and facility management, learning in a real-world setting at the Cat Tales Wildlife Center.
This introductory course covers a wide range of essential skills and knowledge for the care and management of wildlife in a zoological setting, including:
- Safety and Emergency Protocols: Learning best practices to ensure safety for both animals and caregivers.
- Exhibit and Holding Area Maintenance: Understanding the upkeep of animal habitats to promote health and natural behaviors.
- Animal Nutrition and Diet Preparation: Gaining skills in dietary planning and food preparation for diverse species.
- Record-Keeping and Behavioral Observation: Developing precise documentation and observation skills to monitor animal health and well-being.
- Animal Enrichment and Lead Zookeeping Introduction: Providing enrichment activities that encourage natural behaviors and introduce concepts of advanced zookeeping.
Facility Operations training also covers essential zoo support roles, including public relations, fundraising, conservation education, and grounds and exhibit maintenance. Topics such as basic construction and horticulture further broaden students’ practical skills, all of which are critical for success in wildlife care and facility management.
All training takes place at the Cat Tales Wildlife Center, which serves as a “living laboratory” where students apply their knowledge directly with real animals. The program subjects are delivered through a blend of virtual and hands-on instruction, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Course topics may vary slightly depending on current student needs and industry standards, with completion of all subjects required for advancement in the program.