Zoo and Conservation Science Major

What You'll Learn

As a Zoo and Conservation Science major, that work starts while you’re still a student at Drake University. In preparation for careers in zoos, aquariums, and other conservation settings, you’ll observe animal behavior, explore ecosystems, and see more natural sciences concepts in action.

Our department’s faculty are experts in a wide variety of topics—which you’d expect from an interdisciplinary program that includes classes in biology, psychology, and environmental science. Alongside this, courses in economics, politics, policy, and ethics delve into the human element of preserving our world.

Before you graduate, you’ll complete two internships as well as a required research project. You might work with bonobos at the Ape Cognition and Conservation Initiative, get hands-on animal husbandry experience at the Blank Park Zoo, or even join faculty on research projects. Whether you assist with their studies or pitch your own independent question, you’ll discover the pioneering power of collaboration.

Objectives

• Effectively contribute to the contemporary role of zoos in conservation efforts and in environmental education.
• Describe the role of, and successfully apply the principles of, animal behavior research in captive animal management.
• Describe the rationale, function, and limitations of species survival plans and studbooks for limited captive populations in zoo settings.
• Understand the accreditation process for zoos and aquaria in the U.S., and effectively participate in accreditation-related continuous improvement.
• Describe the rationale and assessment of environmental enrichment as a management technique in zoos; design and implement environmental enrichment techniques.
• Describe and apply the principles of collaboration among zoo professionals, including administrative, animal care, veterinary, and research personnel.
• Work with veterinary staff within the special conditions that apply to the care of captive exotic animals, especially endangered species.
• Correctly manage and coordinate behavioral and husbandry data collected in zoo settings.
• Understand the dynamics of small populations and apply these principles to maintain genetic diversity and proper demography in the management of captive animals.
• Understand how scientific data informs the creation of public policy to mitigate environmental risks. Develop problem-solving skills that will allow them to design, implement, and assess the results of their own projects.

Program Facts

• On campus
• Full time
• 120 total credits; 57-62 credits for the major