Professional Science Master's in Natural Sciences - Zoo, Aquarium and Animal Shelter Management

Youve always imagined your life helping animals. Veterinary school is not the only career path that allows you to work with animals. By providing a combination of coursework and experiential learning, the Professional Science Master's (PSM) program in Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management prepares students for an applied career with animal organizations.

Our vision is to provide future leaders in animal welfare and conservation with the professional skills they need to amplify their influence within animal organizations. This highly flexible and mobile degree is responsive to the needs of our environment and our communities. We collaborate within and across professional animal organizations that represent the leading edge of animal welfare and conservation. In addition to fostering an inclusive environment that enables curious, creative, and courageous minds, we work independently and collaboratively to pursue answers, challenge assumptions, and exercise ethical responsibility within this field.

With an emphasis on hands-on learning, PSM students gain the necessary skills to lead an organization with animals in a variety of capacities. Although the name of the program lists our main areas of study (zoo, aquarium, and animal shelter), there are diverse experiential and career options available to explore throughout the program and into the field.

An official transcript of all collegiate work completed along with a certified translation into English.
An undergraduate grade point average of 3.000 (A = 4.000) is required by CSU regulation for admission.
Minimum TOEFL score for admission without condition is 550 (paper based), or 80 (internet based).
Minimum IELTS score for admission without condition is 6.5.
Undergraduate record and GPA– Students who took a rigorous undergraduate schedule in a science field are the most qualified applicants. A minimum of 3.0 GPA is required. For more information please read the FAQ about GPA. (insert link on GPA)
Demonstrated interest in the field– We ask for a resume or CV detailing prior employment, internships or volunteering in the animal field help to show a commitment to this career path. Be thorough and complete when describing past experience.
Graduate record exam– While no minimum scores are required, the GRE can help distinguish a student likely to succeed in a graduate program. * GRE is not required for incoming SDP students.
Statement of purpose– A well-written and creative statement of purpose can help us to identify students who are passionate and committed as well as highlighting unique skills
Three letters of recommendation– Strong letters of recommendation that help us get to know you as a student, future leader and person will help us evaluate your likelihood to succeed in our program and the field of management. A strong letter will comment on:
Your character and professionalism
Your ability to succeed in rigorous coursework
Your ability to think critically
Your attitude and demeanor