Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts in Human-Animal Studies

Overview

The Human-Animal Studies (HAST) program at the University of Redlands is an interdisciplinary field of study that examines the relationships between humans and other animals. This program is the only one in California and one of only nine in the nation.

Program Details

• Degree Offered: Bachelor of Arts
• Program Type: Undergraduate, Major, Minor
• Mode of Study: On Campus
• Department: Biology
• School/College: College of Arts and Sciences

What is a Human-Animal Studies Degree?

The HAST program explores ecological, biological, literary, psychological, and ethical connections between humans and other animals. Students acquire a greater understanding of the ways in which animals figure in our lives and we in theirs.

Why Major in Human-Animal Studies at Redlands?

• Interdisciplinary Insights: Gain a comprehensive understanding of human-animal relationships through a multidisciplinary approach.
• Ecological Awareness: Develop a deep awareness of the ecological interconnections between humans and animals.
• Practical Applications: Acquire practical skills and knowledge applicable to careers involving animal care, conservation, and management.
• Ethical Evaluation: Critically evaluate the ethical dimensions of human-animal interactions.

Classes You'll Take

• Foundation Courses:
  • HAST 100: Introduction to Human-Animal Studies
  • PHIL 212: Humans and Other Animals
  • PHIL 213: Animal Ethics and Policy
  • BIOL 331: Ecology
  • BIOL 340: Conservation Biology
• Elective Courses:
  • BIOL 320: Marine Conservation (May Travel)
  • BIOL 334: Comparative Animal Physiology
  • BIOL 339: Zoology
  • EVST 281: The Palau Expedition (May Travel)
  • EVST 283: Mapping Animals
  • EVST 305: Ecology for Environmental Scientists
• Practicum/Internship:
  • Students must complete a practicum (3-4 credits) in an area of interest, such as animal-assisted therapy, wildlife conservation, or animal welfare.

Minor Requirements

• Foundation Courses:
  • PHIL 212: Humans and Other Animals
  • PHIL 213: Animal Ethics and Policy
  • BIOL 331: Ecology
  • BIOL 340: Conservation Biology
• Elective Courses:
  • Three elective courses from various disciplines, including science, humanities, and social sciences.
• Practicum/Internship:
  • Students must complete a practicum (3-4 credits) in an area of interest.

Career Paths

• Animal-Assisted Therapist
• Animal-Assisted Social Worker
• Animal Behaviorist
• Animal Control Officer
• Animal Nutritionist
• Animal Photographer
• Animal Rehabilitation Specialist
• Animal Trainer
• Animal Welfare Inspector
• Graduate Study and Academic Research/Teaching
• Humane Education
• K-9 Police Officer

Distinctive Program Features

• Speaker Series: Annual lectures featuring world-renowned animal scholars and activists.
• Career Paths: Preparation for careers involving animal care, conservation, and management.
• Latest Stories: Student research and achievements in the field of human-animal studies.

About Human-Animal Studies

• Interdisciplinary Approach: Combining courses in philosophy, biology, psychology, environmental studies, and other areas of study.
• Practicum Opportunities: Hands-on experience working with animals in various settings.
• Career Preparation: Preparation for careers involving animal care, conservation, and management.

Upcoming and Past Lectures

• Lecture Series: Annual lectures featuring world-renowned animal scholars and activists.
• Past Themes: The mental lives of farmed animals, shared human-animal experiences at the margins of society, and living at the wildlife-urban interface.

What Can You Do with a HAST Degree?

• Animal-Assisted Therapist
• Animal-Assisted Social Worker
• Animal Behaviorist
• Animal Control Officer
• Animal Nutritionist
• Animal Photographer
• Animal Rehabilitation Specialist
• Animal Trainer
• Animal Welfare Inspector
• Graduate Study and Academic Research/Teaching
• Humane Education
• K-9 Police Officer

Student Science Research Program

• Summer Research Opportunities: Students work on research projects alongside U of R professors.
• Poster Symposium: Students present their research at the annual poster symposium.

Graduates Pursue Careers As

• Animal Behaviorists
• Wildlife Conservationists
• Humane Educators
• Anthrozoologists

Contact Information

• Get in Touch: Contact the admissions team for more information.
• Visit Our Campus: Schedule a visit to the University of Redlands campus.