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 Program Contact
Kim Sepich
Associate Dean,
Enrollment Services
336.249.8186, ext.6780
Mission Statement
The Zoo & Aquarium Science program combines a rigorous classroom curriculum with extensive co-op experiences over 5 semesters. Graduates of the Zoo & Aquarium Science program will be prepared for employment at an entry level in the zoo and/or aquarium profession or to continue their academic studies in zoo science. Co-op experiences may involve animal collections in a zoological park, wild animal safari park university research facility and/or aquarium setting.
Special Admission Requirements
Applicants for the program must meet the minimum Occupational Health Standards including but not limited to current tetanus, TB, herpes inoculations and complete an annual physical. Applicants must earn minimum scores on the college ACCUPLACER or ASSET tests in writing, reading and math, and earn minimum scores in the SAMS computer skills assessment.
Employment and/or Volunteer Experience Form
Intent Form
Information Packet
Degree Offered
A.S. in Zoo & Aquarium Science
Curriculum
The Zoo & Aquarium Science curriculum is a combination of rigorous class work combined with unique learning experiences working with zoo professionals onsite at animal partner facilities. Learn more…
Student Standards
In order to work with live animal collections, Zoo & Aquarium Science students need to meet minimum standards in the areas of academics, legal, occupation health, and professional behavior.
Learn more…
Co-operative Learning Experiences
Co-operative Learning experiences (Co-op) are a vital component of the Zoo & Aquarium Program. Co-op experiences are conducted at Animal Discovery (1st year students) and the North Carolina Zoological Park (2nd year students). In addition, students are required to complete a summer co-op experience of 320 hours at one of our other animal partner facilities. Learn more…
Faculty
Mark E. Stevens
mesteven@davidsonccc.edu
336.249.8186, ext. 6737
Frequently Asked Questions.
The Zoo & Aquarium Science program has co-op experiences every semester. Why do students spend so much time in co-ops each semester? Co-op opportunities provide students with valuable experiences working with a wide variety of exotic animals in several different types of animal facilities. In addition, the co-op experiences are designed to assist the student in determining early on if the zoo/aquaria career is a good fit. Learn more...
How much does an entry level zookeeper earn?
Annual salary depends upon several factors such as the level of educational and professional experience, the type of animal facility and geographic location. In general, the salary range for entry level zookeepers is $18,000-$24,000.
How competitive is the acceptance process?
Zoo Science programs are competitive nationwide. There are only 6 other community colleges in the U.S. that offer associate degrees in zoo science. All these programs report a waiting list. The Zoo & Aquarium Science program at DCCC will accept a maximum of 24 students each fall semester.
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