Associate Degree in Animal Management

Animal management - also known as zoo animal technology - degree programs typically lead to associate degrees; however, the subject may receive coverage in an animal science bachelor's degree program. Through this program, students are prepared to provide care for, breed, manage and ensure proper housing environments for a wide array of animals.

Associate Degree in Animal Management

Animal management associate degree programs teach students how to care for animals in zoos, aquariums and other animal care facilities. The program can be completed in two years, and students learn the importance of conservation, nutrition, training, capture and restraint, monitoring and recordkeeping. Classroom lecture is typically combined with weekly hands-on training to create a well-rounded educational approach. The only prerequisite for admission to an associate degree program in animal management is the possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.

Program Coursework

The curriculum of an animal management program incorporates the characteristics of more than five groups of animal species while preparing students to handle the animals in each group in exhibit-based environments. Coursework may cover the following subjects:

• Common zoo diseases
• Exhibit creation and maintenance
• Animal breeding
• Conservation principles
• Vertebrate biology
• Animal training methods
• Animal behavior
• Animal food and nutrition
• Aquarium training
• Animal care and ethics
• Animal genetics

Popular Careers

The training received in an animal management associate degree program provides a comprehensive education, facilitating a choice of positions and animal care facilities in which graduates may work. Job positions may include the following:

• Zoo keeper
• Animal trainer
• Aquarist

Continuing Education

Some 4-year bachelor's degree programs in animal sciences offer concentrations in animal management. The education focuses on the business, finance and production aspects of animal care. Unlike an associate degree program, a bachelor's degree program relating to animal management involves the care of companion animals like cats, dogs and horses while also introducing students to the maintenance of farm or cattle animals that play an integral role in U.S. agriculture. The program prepares students for jobs in companion animal care or animal agriculture.