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Schedule: October 2026 – July 2027
Format: 8-course cohort program
The Certificate Program is an immersive, professional-level training experience designed for animal care and training professionals seeking both practical skills and a deeper understanding of behavior science.
The program includes eight courses delivered over four terms from October 2026 through July 2027, combining structured coursework, hands-on experience, and individualized coaching.
A centerpiece of the program is a five-day, in-person workshop held at a working zoo facility. For the 2026–2027 cohort, the workshop will take place at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where students will gain direct experience training a giraffe and other species. (Travel and lodging are not included.)
Throughout the program, students participate in monthly video coaching sessions. Participants submit one-minute training videos and meet with experienced instructors for structured feedback using the Start–Continue–Stop model. This coaching component is available only as part of the full certificate program and is designed to strengthen both hands-on training skills and the ability to coach others effectively.
The Certificate Program emphasizes deep behavioral expertise, ensuring graduates leave with practical training proficiency as well as the conceptual tools needed to mentor and lead within their organizations.
Additional Information
Scholarships are available for qualifying new students.
Discounts are available only when enrolling in the full curriculum. One $200 discount may be applied per participant if one of the following criteria is met:
Full tuition prepaid upfront
Multiple participants enrolled from the same organization (one discount per person)
This program is ideal for professionals seeking a comprehensive, applied, and coaching-focused approach to animal training and behavior education.
Schedule: October 2026 – July 2027
Format: 8-course cohort program
The Certificate Program is an immersive, professional-level training experience designed for animal care and training professionals seeking both practical skills and a deeper understanding of behavior science.
The program includes eight courses delivered over four terms from October 2026 through July 2027, combining structured coursework, hands-on experience, and individualized coaching.
A centerpiece of the program is a five-day, in-person workshop held at a working zoo facility. For the 2026–2027 cohort, the workshop will take place at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where students will gain direct experience training a giraffe and other species. (Travel and lodging are not included.)
Throughout the program, students participate in monthly video coaching sessions. Participants submit one-minute training videos and meet with experienced instructors for structured feedback using the Start–Continue–Stop model. This coaching component is available only as part of the full certificate program and is designed to strengthen both hands-on training skills and the ability to coach others effectively.
The Certificate Program emphasizes deep behavioral expertise, ensuring graduates leave with practical training proficiency as well as the conceptual tools needed to mentor and lead within their organizations.
Additional Information
Scholarships are available for qualifying new students.
Discounts are available only when enrolling in the full curriculum. One $200 discount may be applied per participant if one of the following criteria is met:
Full tuition prepaid upfront
Multiple participants enrolled from the same organization (one discount per person)
This program is ideal for professionals seeking a comprehensive, applied, and coaching-focused approach to animal training and behavior education.