Zoo Science and Management Course

Using Cleveland Metroparks Zoo as a living laboratory and classroom, students in the Zoo Science and Management course will learn many aspects of zoo management, from animal care to administration. Students will identify the roles of the modern zoo, review the many aspects of professional zoo management and study how zoos have contributed to conservation, education, recreation, and research. Topics include animal care and population management, zoo administration, zoo research and conservation, horticulture, education, and veterinary services. In addition, students will be trained in behavioral observation techniques and will have the opportunity to collect data on various species around the zoo. All required course material will be provided. A typical day will feature talks and tours in the morning followed by behavioral research by the students in the afternoon. At the end of the course, students will analyze their data and give a short presentation of their results. For more details on the course, please contact Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Conservation & Science Department ([email protected]).

Course syllabus

Course Syllabus 2025 (details are subject to change)

Prerequisites

BIO 202, Introductory Biology I, or equivalent, or permission of the instructor.

Class schedule and location:

The course is typically offered two consecutive weeks in May from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. daily. In 2025, the course will be offered from Monday, May 12 – Friday, May 23, with classes held Monday through Friday. The entirety of the course will take place at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109).

This course is offered in partnership with Cleveland State University, but the course is open to non-Cleveland State University students as well. This course is offered as BIO 358, and it is a 3 credit course. For more information about registration, please contact Lisa Pasquale ([email protected]).