Zoo & Aquarium Science

Mission Statement The Zoo & Aquarium Science program combines a rigorous classroom curriculum with extensive co-opexperiences 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. Program Contacts Jill Simpson jbsimpso@davidsonccc.edu 336.249.8186, ext. 6231 Mark Stevens mesteven@davidsonccc.edu 336.249.8186, ext. 6737
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.Click here for applications		Follow us on Facebook!

Degree Offered
AAS Degree - Zoo & Aquarium Science

Housing and Hotel Information

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…

Educational Opportunities for graduates

• 2 + 2 BS in Biology (UNCG)
• 2 + 2 BS in Zoology (NC State) – pending
• Advanced Certificate/Co-op Experience at NC Zoo (2nd Summer-pending)

Zoo and Aquarium Science Scholarships

• Davidson County Community College Zoo and Aquarium Science Program has been awarded a National Science Foundation ZAS Student Scholarship Grant to support academically talented, financially needy students who have completed their first year of studies in the ZAS Program. This is DCCC's first National Science Foundation grant.  Scholarships will be awarded each year in a special effort to assist DCCC in meeting student success in STEM programs.

• All students must complete a FAFSA form in order to apply for the scholarships.  Please contact Financial Aid for more information.

Career opportunities for graduates

• Nationwide search - must be able to relocate
• Highly competitive
• Facilities
  • Nature Science Centers,
  • Private and Municipal Zoological Parks,
  • Private and Municipal Aquaria
  • University Research Facilities,
  • Sanctuaries and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers

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.