Recommendations: Students need to be on track for graduation and have a desire to be in a setting that encourages teamwork in a project-based real world environment. A grade of C or better is recommended in Biology.
Course Description: This course is designed for students who have an interest in pursuing a career within the Animal Health field. This career exploration course will allow students an opportunity to discover a variety of career options in the animal health industry. Students will have the opportunity to learn from professionals in the field of large animals, marine animals, small animals, exotics, wildlife, and animal research. This course is not teacher and curriculum driven. It is a hands-on, project based exploratory opportunity. Students should be prepared to work in a team environment with professionals in real-world company based projects. Classroom location for Animal Health Sciences is at the Kansas City Zoo. Students will need to provide their own transportation.
College Credit: This program is eligible for 1-4 credits of dual credit work through Northwest Missouri State University.
2nd Year Prerequisite: Students must meet eligibility requirements including 90% attendance at HCC (no unexcused) and a cumulative Southland CAPS grade of 80% or higher and a positive internship evaluations. Students must also desire to be out in industry 4 days a week on an internship setting. Students engaging in second year programming should be prepared to complete an advanced and elevated passion project.
What will you explore?
• Animal Handling Skills • Large Animal Husbandry • Companion Animal Care
• Exotic Animal Care • Marine Animal Husbandry • Conservation Education
• Native Fisheries & Wildlife Conservation • Veterinarian Fundamentals
• Shelter Animal Care • Professionalism Skills
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:
The job outlook for a career in the animal health field should grow between 19-20% by 2026. The 2017 median pay was an annual salary of $33,400. For veterinarians the median annual salary was $90,420 with the top 10% earning more than $159,320. Various careers could also include: zoo keeping, fisheries and wildlife biologist, animal shelter workers, livestock handler, marine biologist, and many more.
Dual Credit Opportunities:
Students have the opportunity to earn college credit by dual enrollment through Northwest Missouri State University. (Tuition cost is determined by the University). Courses that students can enroll in for Animal Health Science include:
- Profession Based Essential (1 credit)
- Profession Based Work Experience (can earn 1-2 credits depending on hours worked)
Business Partners:
Some of the Animal Health business partners that you can anticipate working with are: The Kansas City Zoo, Wayside Waifs, Bayer, KC Sea Life Aquarium, Missouri Conservation, and many many more local partners.
Follow Animal Health on Instagram: @scaps_animalhealth
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