Anthrozoology

Bachelor of Science in Anthrozoology

Captive Wildlife Care • Domestic Animal Care • Wildlife Conservation

Our new major explores the extraordinary relationships and interactions that people have with animals, combining scientific study and exploration with theoretical applications in the areas of animal welfare, animal behavior and conservation.  Our unique approach includes classroom instruction and hands-on learning.  Download our brochure or read on for details.

On campus, you’ll work directly with a variety of animals, including:

  • Domesticated animals
  • Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs)
  • Large birds (pigeons)
  • Snakes
  • Fish
  • Insects

You can choose from three distinct tracks based on your interests and career goals:

  • Captive Wildlife Care
  • Domestic Animal Care
  • Wildlife Conservation

You can also extend the career value and marketability of your anthrozoology degree by adding a minor in another field, such as education, hospitality or entrepreneurship.

Program Benefits

Woman and dolphinAs an anthrozoology major, you will learn to:

  • Think like a scientist
  • Use critical thinking skills to evaluate situations involving animals
  • Articulate scientific ideas and concepts
  • Understand controversies
  • Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of animal husbandry, behavior and zoonosis (diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans)
  • Help create solutions to enhance positive interactions and relationships between humans and animals, and change misconceptions and fears
  • Prepare for employment in zoos, aquariums, animal shelters and nature centers

Sample Courses

Young farmer posing in animal farm

  • Principles of Animal Husbandry & Care
  • Principles of Organismal Biology I & II w/Lab
  • Science of Animal Welfare
  • Animal Behavior & Communication
  • Animals in the Public Eye
  • Animal Training & Enrichment
  • Conservation Biology
  • Animal Shelter Management
  • Biology & Behavior of Companion Animals
  • Conservation: People, Wildlife & Wild Places
  • Zoo & Aquarium Science

Field Experience and Internships

Student with MonkeyIn this major, you will have access to special learning opportunities and internships through our close relationships with area employers and organizations that work with animals. In addition to on-campus experiences, you will participate in hands-on learning at area zoos, rescue shelters, stables, farms and more.

All anthrozoology majors are required to complete an internship. We work with you to identify and secure an internship in the Leesburg area. If you prefer to complete a summer internship, we will work with you to identify an internship close to your home or at a location of interest to you.

Career Opportunities

Students with a B.S. in Anthrozoology can immediately begin working in the field, or continue on to graduate school for advanced study in animal behavior or conservation biology.

This degree provides solid preparation for employment in zoos, aquariums, animal shelters and nature centers, or a career in animal training, wildlife conservation or animal welfare.

Anthrozoology Minor

The anthrozoology minor is an interdisciplinary program open to all Beacon students. The curriculum provides students with a broad view of animal behavior and human interaction with other species. It can be combined with a degree in another field, such as business.

Learn More

For more information about our anthrozoology program, download our brochure. To arrange a visit, please contact: Office of Admissions at admissions@beaconcollege.edu or call 352-638-9731 or 855-220-5376 (toll-free).