So You Want to Work in a Zoo?
In this 8-week online club, students will learn about various careers in the zoo industry and exactly what it takes to get there. We will discuss 8 different job titles and the experience and schooling needed to pursue each one!
What's included
16 live meetings
12 in-class hoursClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Beginner Level
Has your child ever wondered what it would take to work in a zoo? Calling all animals lovers to join me for this 8-week club to explore various zoo careers and what it takes to get there! We will explore 8 different careers your future zoologist can pursue, including: Zookeeper, Aquarist, Zoo Veterinarian, Educator, Nutritionist, Exhibit Architect, Conservation Biologist/Zoologist, and Curator. Each week we will focus on a new career, full job description, education and experience requirements, and more through interactive slideshow sessions with interactive note-taking. We will complete at least 1 activity per class session, either written or oral, that will put your learner in the shoes of that career for the week. We will conclude each week by exploring real job listings for various zoos throughout the country! Join us to help your future zoologist discover their passions and learn about what it really takes to work in the zoo industry.
Learning Goals
Students will learn about 8 different career paths in the zoo industry.
Students will learn about the required schooling and experiences needed for 8 career paths in the zoo industry.
Syllabus
16 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
A History of Zoos
Learn about the history of the zoo industry and introduce the big question: Are zoos ethical?
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
So You Want to be a Zookeeper?
Learn about what it takes to be a zookeeper including full job description, experiences + education requirements, and real job listings.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
So You Want to be an Aquarist? Part 1
Learn about what it takes to be an aquarist, including full job description and a group activity.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
So You Want to be an Aquarist? Part 2
Learn about the experience + education requirements for being an aquarist and explore real job listings.
45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Supply List
Students will need a printer for various activities and note-taking outlines for each class session.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
We will refer to the Career Center on the Association of Zoos & Aquariums website, found here: https://www.aza.org/Jobs/.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Michigan State University
I have a Bachelor of Science in Zoology and a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries & Wildlife, with a special emphasis on zoo education. I have been working in the zoo industry since 2015, with over 5 years of experience as a zoo educator and interpreter. I have taught ALL ages as a zoo educator! This includes teaching 2 years of summer zoo camp from ages 5-14.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$20
weekly or $160 for 16 classes2x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
4-10 learners per class