Zoo Keeping Technology

Zoo Keeping Technology Pikes Peak State College

Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science Degree, AAS, Certificate, CER

Pathway: Science, Engineering and Math

More Options: Classroom Based

Program Length: 4 Semesters

Location: Centennial, Other Off-Campus Location

Transferability: Transferable

Catalog Link Apply to PPSC Pathway Information Request Information

What Can I do with a Degree in Zoo Keeping Technology

A degree in Zoo Keeping Technology allows graduates to work in a variety of fields in the animal-care industry. Students go on to work in zoos, aquariums, wildlife rehabilitation centers, humane societies and Division of Wildlife facilities.

Qualities of a Zoo Keeper

No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch balance, and ability of movement that might interfere with ability to work
Ability to adjust to changing situations as needs dictate
Passion for working with animals
Physical strength, including the ability to frequently move fifty pounds
Ability to wear personal protective equipment that may include gloves, steel-toed footwear, face shields, eye goggles, and dust masks
No allergy related to plants or animals that would impede work
Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time
Working in a variety of weather conditions, weekends, and holidays
Work in small, confined spaces

Want to find out if this program is for you? Explore potential careers on the web at America's Career InfoNet or the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Association of Zoos & Aquariums

American Association of Zoo Keepers

Zoo Keeping Technology Classes You Might Take

Here are some classes you could take here at PPSC

ZOO 1040 | Animal Training

Teaches the basics of classical and operant conditioning and the real-world application of shaping animal behavior in a captive setting. Provides the information and tools on how to develop and implement training programs and condition behavior. Concentrates on the utilization of positive reinforcement techniques and troubleshoots training challenges. Explores advances in the use of training during public demonstrations.

ZOO 1020 | Animal Conservation

Introduces concepts relating to the conservation of the natural world. This course examines biodiversity and the relationships between animals and their environment. This course explores the environmental, political, economic, and sociological issues relating to the loss of biodiversity on the planet as well as efforts in place to be implemented by zoos and conservation organizations to counter those effects.

ZOO 1310 | Zoonotic and Preventative Medicine

Covers zoonotic preventative medicine and veterinary zookeeping concepts and techniques. Supplies a working knowledge of a keeper’s role in exotic animal care and medicine, including the importance of nutrition. This course introduces common diseases and parasites that affect a variety of exotic animals as well as how to treat and prevent those illnesses.

ZOO 1080 | Zoo Keeping Internship I

Provides hands-on work experience at an approved animal care facility. Introduces the student to animal care standards as required by the USDA and AWA. Student will become competent in the care of the animals studied within each internship. Requires a 2.8 GPA.

BIO 1003 | Principles of Animal Biology

Focuses on the phylogenetic study of animals. Includes an introduction to the invertebrates and a concentrated study of the diverse vertebrate forms. Laboratory experiences parallel lecture topics.

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1st Semester Plan

Your personalized schedule will be best determined by meeting with an Academic Advisor
Math Requirements: Students should place into MAT 1140
English Requirements: Students should place into ENG 1021

Covers material designed for career and technical students who need to study particular mathematical topics. Topics include measurement, algebra, geometry, statistics, and graphs. These are presented at an introductory level and the emphasis is on applications.

Emphasizes the planning, writing, and revising of compositions, including the development of critical and logical thinking skills. This course includes a wide variety of compositions that stress analytical, evaluative, and persuasive/argumentative writing.

Provides communication and interpretation training for those required to interpret natural resource data about historical characters and times for the public. The course focuses on experiential skill development in the area of educational interpretation including, but not limited to, in-class and on-site interpretation of historical, geological, zoological, and other environmental topics and sites. It also stresses the preparation of educational presentations aimed at all levels of learners from pre- K through mature adulthood using various presentation techniques including, but not limited to, visual aids, props, dramatic performance, and puppetry.

Introduces the study of animals and their interactions with the environment. This course includes principles of evolution, taxonomy, phylogeny, morphology, behavior and ecology. It includes the study of animal diversity, emphasizing the characteristics and classifications of major phyla. The loss of biodiversity and conservation will also be covered.

Introduces the basic concepts of ecology and the relationship between environmental problems and biological systems. This course includes interdisciplinary discussions on biology, chemistry, geology, energy, natural resources, pollution, and environmental protection. A holistic approach is used when analyzing how the foundations of natural sciences interconnect with the environment.

Introduces the science utilized in the field of animal management. Incorporates terminology, protocols and procedures, governing bodies, career development, and dealing with public relations. This course examines the taxonomic hierarchy of how the natural world is arranged and how various taxon are organized in the scientific community.

Zoo Keeping Technology Pikes Peak State College

Fall/Summer registration opens in March