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  • Home
  • Plan A Visit
    • Hours & Admission
    • To do at the Zoo
    • Zoo Rules & Policies
  • EXPLORE
    • Meet the Animals
    • Onsite Programs
    • Outreach Programs
    • Field Trips
    • JCC Zoo Technology AAS
    • Summer Reading Program
  • EVENTS
    • Events Calendar
    • Brew at the Zoo!
    • Winter Wonderlights
    • Birthday Parties
    • Plan your event
    • Vendor Application
  • SUPPORT
    • Donate
    • Adopt A Monarch
    • Membership
    • Volunteer
    • Item Wish List
    • Winter Appeal 25-26
    • Become a Sponsor
    • Sponsors
  • About
    • Our Mission and History
    • Board Of Directors
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Support the zoo

Zoo Technology AAS, at Jefferson Community College

Zoo staff handling a large snake during an educational session.

Love working with animals?

The Zoo Technology A.A.S. degree will provide you with the basic skills, experiences and knowledge required for a career as a progressive zookeeper or zoo educator in modern zoos.

The program is a specialized, practical, cost-effective, foot-in-the-door to the zoo field, whether you already have a degree or this is your first time to college. Students are prepared for an entry-level keeper position through a combination of classroom studies and rare hands-on experience at our partner facilities.

Man smiling with a llama over a wooden fence on a farm.

Hands on learning

Students will have the opportunity to work alongside zookeepers, veterinarians, curators, educators and administrators. Coursework focuses on zoo animal care and management, but the management of domestic species is also used to illustrate the fundamental principles of animal husbandry and to provide additional hands-on experience. 

Two women in uniforms examine a large skull in a classroom setting.

A career of passion

 

Zookeepers need technical expertise and a knowledge of science to provide the best animal care, educate the public and participate in regional, national and international cooperative programs. As populations of endangered species dwindle, the role of zoo and aquarium keepers will become more important. 

A working, practical knowledge of animal care, welfare & husbandry, an appreciation of the issues facing endangered species and the environment, an understanding of biological principles, the ability to interact with the public, and a broad perspective of the larger zoo community are all essential

Ready to take the next step?

 Learn more about the Zoo Technology AAS, at JCC 

Join JCC’s Zoo Tech Program

Considering a career in zookeeping?

Start Zookeeping Survey

Connect with Mark Irwin, Zoo Tech Lead

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