Animal Health Sciences

Pre-Requisite:

CAPS programs do not have pre-requisites, as long as, students are on track for graduation.

Requirements:

Transportation to/from the program is required for the Animal Health course.

Course Description:

This course is designed for students who have an interest in the Animal Health field. This career exploration course will allow students an opportunity to discover and explore 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, animal research etc. This course is not teacher and curriculum driven. It is a hands on, project based exploratory opportunity for students. Students should be prepared to work with professionals on real-world company based projects. Location of program will be at the Kansas City Zoo.

Students need to be on track for graduation and need a desire to be in an environment that encourages teamwork in a project-based learning setting. Students should have a strong foundation in reading and writing. A passing grade in the core science classes is strongly encouraged.

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:

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.