Program Overview

Program Overview

The Professional Science Master's (P.S.M.) program with a specialization in Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management at Colorado State University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in animal welfare and conservation. Developed in cooperation with leaders of professional animal organizations, this program focuses on the science of animal behavior, physiology, reproduction, and nutrition, as well as fundamentals of leadership, management, and nonprofit business operations.

Program Details

• Degree Awarded: Professional Science Master’s (P.S.M.) with a specialization in Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management
• Time Frame: Can be completed in 3 years
• Tuition: $860
• Credits: 41 - 43
• Accreditation: Accredited by the National Professional Science Master’s Association (NPSMA)

Curriculum

The curriculum includes a range of courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of animal welfare and management. Some of the key courses include:

• NSCI 579: Applied Animal Behavior: Training and Enrichment
• NSCI 601: Ethics for Animal Professionals
• NSCI 688A: PSM Capstone: Preparation
• NSCI 693A: Seminar
• ANEQ 322 or 323: Animal Nutrition
• NSCI 611: Leadership for Animal Professionals
• NSCI 631: Marketing and Community Relations for Animal Welfare Leaders
• NSCI 641: Fiscal Management for Animal Welfare Leaders
• NSCI 651: Non-Profit Fund Development and Grant Writing

Admission Requirements

• Undergraduate Degree: An undergraduate degree from an accredited, four-year institution
• Cumulative GPA: A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher from the most recent degree completed
• Work Experience: 3-5 years of paid experience in relevant animal-related organizations (prerequisite minimum of 3 years)
• GRE Scores: Not required

Application Process

To apply, students must:

• Review admission requirements
• Prepare application materials, including a resume or CV, statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation
• Complete the online graduate application and pay the nonrefundable application processing fee
• Request official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Check application status

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this program will be prepared for career advancement opportunities in zoo, aquarium, and shelter operations, nonprofit executive leadership positions, behavioral management positions, and more. Example job titles include:

• Animal Shelter Manager or Director
• Behavior and Enrichment Manager
• Manager of Educational Outreach
• Manager of Programs and/or Volunteers
• Research Associate
• Animal Care Supervisor
• Bonobo Caretaker
• Elephant Keeper
• Seal Lion Keeper
• Zoo Curator
• Conservation Engagement Programs Manager
• Manager of Humane Education
• Guest Services Manager

Accreditation and Rankings

• Accreditation: Accredited by the National Professional Science Master’s Association (NPSMA)
• Rankings: Top 7% Best Professors in USA, #1 in Colorado (Niche, 2025)
• Graduation Rate: Nearly 100% graduation rate for CSU's on-campus P.S.M. program
• Job Placement: Approximately 90% of CSU’s recent P.S.M. grads received job offers at or before graduation

Program Total Credits

The program requires a total of 43 - 45 credits to complete.