Animal Science & Behavior

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Explore Animal Welfare With Your Online Master’s

The online Animal Science and Behavior master’s degree is an exploration into human-animal interactions, with a focus on animal companionship, behavior, and welfare. This program is designed to provide you with both scientific and ethical perspectives, preparing you for careers that promote humane treatment and responsible care of animals. Graduates will be equipped for roles such as animal trainers, shelter managers, and service providers, applying their knowledge in environments like animal shelters, conservation centers, and behavior consulting firms.

CAREER OUTLOOK

What Can I Do With a Master’s in
Animal Science and Behavior?

2.5 K

Animal Scientist jobs in the U.S., 2023*

$ 79 K

Median annual pay for Animal Scientists, 2024*

+ 8 %

Estimated job growth for Animal Scientists through 2033 *

*Source: O*Net/U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

In the MPS in Animal Science and Behavior Program You’ll Learn To:

Evaluate interactions between humans and animals to identify sources of risk and implement strategies that ensure safety and well-being for both
Design and assess animal training methods that emphasize low-stress, minimally intrusive techniques to support behavioral health and learning
Understand and apply U.S. animal welfare laws to ensure ethical care and compliance in settings involving assistance and companion animals
Integrate theory with practical knowledge to design care strategies that align with natural behaviors and well-being benchmarks

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What You Will Study

Animal Science and Behavior
Course Examples

Advanced Animal Training

In this course, you will engage in an exploration of the science and theory of animal learning, with a particular focus on applying these principles to training scenarios. As part of the course, you will learn about operant conditioning and reinforcement schedules, and the strategic use of positive reinforcement to enhance relationships and communication between trainers and animals.

Canine and Feline Nutrition

Explore the science of feline and canine nutrition, including digestion, nutrient needs, and feeding strategies. This course emphasizes real-world application through case studies and discussion, helping you assess diets, solve nutrition-related problems, and make informed decisions that support the health, longevity, and welfare of companion animals.

British Shorthair Eating from a Ceramic Bowl. Pet concept.

Animal Behavior and Modification

This course provides an in-depth understanding of animal behavior and learning from biological, physiological, and neurological perspectives. You will explore the mechanisms and processes that govern animal behavior, including neural systems and sensory processes.

FAQ

Learn More About Degrees and Careers in Animal Science and Behavior

Animal Science and Behavior is about understanding how humans interact with animals, focusing on their companionship, behavior, and well-being. In this program, you’ll explore these relationships from various angles, gaining insights into animal welfare and management. Through engaging coursework, you’ll develop skills in leadership and animal care, preparing you for careers such as animal training, managing animal shelters, or providing animal services. It’s all about learning how to make a positive impact on the lives of animals while also fulfilling your passion for working with them.

The Master of Professional Science in Animal Science and Behavior program provides students with a deep understanding of human-animal interactions with an emphasis on animal companionship, behavior, and welfare. With coursework that develops leadership and management skills, the program prepares students for employment as animal trainers, animal shelter managers, and animal service providers.

Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Thanks to our promise to keep tuition flat through 2030, you won’t be burdened with unexpected increases or fees.

Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.

The timeframe for completion is up to you! Enroll in 6 credits per term and complete the program within just one year. Alternatively, opt for part-time study by taking one course at a time. Whichever path you choose, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way. Contact your concierge or advisor to create your personalized plan.

Professional Masters Core: 15 credits

PROF 505: Strategic Management of Innovation
PROF 510: Communication for Environmental Professionals
PROF 515: Ethical Practice and Policy
PROF 590: Capstone I
PROF 690: Capstone II

Major Program Core: 15 credits

ANIM 505: Animal Behavior and Modification
ANIM 510: Canine and Feline Nutrition
ANIM 605: Advanced Animal Training
ANIM 610: Animal Shelter Best Practices and Management
ANIM 630: Emotional Support and Service Animals: Rules and Regulations

For a better look into your program, view our full course catalog. Then apply online for free to get started.

The Master of Professional Science (MPS) is a graduate degree designed to combine scientific knowledge with practical skills relevant to the workforce. Unlike traditional science degrees, the MPS emphasizes hands-on experience and professional development, preparing students for careers that require both expertise in science and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world contexts. MPS programs focus on a range of skills that are directly applicable to the workplace:

Project Management: Students learn to plan, execute, and manage projects, often in scientific or environmental settings.
Communication: Emphasis is placed on effectively communicating complex scientific ideas to diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the general public.
Policy Analysis: Students gain the ability to understand and analyze policies related to their field, making them valuable assets in governmental and organizational decision-making processes.
Technical Proficiency: Students develop a range of specialized skills and techniques relevant to their discipline, such as animal training, conservation advocacy, environmental monitoring, or other tools essential to their field.

The MS degree is a traditional graduate program focused on deepening scientific understanding through research and academic study.

Master’s in Animal Science and Behavior Academic Information

Degree Requirements and Courses Needed

The animal science and behavior degree requires 30 credits with a minimum 3.0 GPA. View our full course catalog for a better look into your program. Then apply online for free to get started.

Realizing Your Potential. Protecting Your Planet.

Why Unity Distance Education?

High Educational Value

Nationally recognized educational quality at an affordable price.

Sustainability Core

Committed to sustainable practices to prepare for a future of environmental awareness.

Personalized Guidance

Dedicated to turning career and academic aspirations into tangible achievements.

Accelerated Path

Fast-track your Master’s degree and finish your program in as little as one year.

Inspiring Faculty

Connect with experts who share your passion for working in the industry.

Future Success

Ranked #1 independent university in the U.S. by the Social Mobility Index.

Multiple Start Dates

With up to 5 terms a year, you can take a break without jeopardizing financial aid.

Learning Flexibility

Balance life, work, and education by studying when and where you want

Real Students, Real Impact

Real Students, Real Impact

“I can continue to be available for my kids and still do something for myself…”

Rosemarie H.
Master of Science in Animal Science and Behavior

Read Rosemarie’s Full Testimonial

Rosemarie H.
Master of Science in Animal Science and Behavior

“I can continue to be available for my kids and still do something for myself…”

From Flutes to Fur: How One Unity Student is Bridging Human Psychology and Animal Behavior

For Rosemarie, a Concord, Massachusetts resident, music and psychology have long gone hand in hand. With a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy, she spent her early career using music as a therapeutic tool for children with autism, individuals with cognitive disabilities, and geriatric patients. But when motherhood became her full-time role, she found a more flexible way to stay connected to her passion: performing with orchestras. Today, she holds two principal flute positions and has soloed with several Boston-area ensembles.

Still, another lifelong love was waiting in the wings: animals. “I have always loved animals and had been waiting most of my life to get a poodle,” she says. When the COVID-19 pandemic offered the rare opportunity to slow down, Rosemarie finally brought home her dog and quickly became fascinated by the connection between her psychology background and animal behavior. That moment sparked a major shift.

Now a Master’s student in Animal Behavior and Science at Unity Environmental University, Rosemarie is taking her knowledge of the human mind and applying it to our four-legged companions. “I am hoping to gain the knowledge I was seeking about the science behind animal behaviors and behavior modification, in addition to learning and expanding on ways to help animals, especially dogs, fit in to their families and society in a more positive and complete way,” she explains. Unity’s online program made it possible for her to pursue this passion without stepping away from family responsibilities. “It was an amazing opportunity to do something for myself while staying available for my kids.”

Rosemarie’s enthusiasm for the program is evident. She speaks highly of her instructors, especially Professor Anzalone. “He did a great job helping me understand the combination of environmental needs and the reality of business management.”

Looking ahead, Rosemarie hopes to publish research on behavioral issues and modification, educate the public about dogs’ needs, and advocate for improved welfare laws, especially for shelter animals. “I would like to work directly with individuals in helping them solve specific key issues or questions they may have about their dog’s behavior that can help strengthen their bond and understanding of each other.”

She also dreams of conservation work involving her poodle, who has a natural love for sniffing out scents. “I think there’s real potential for her to help in environmental efforts,” she says.

For Rosemarie, each new course at Unity is another step in a journey filled with curiosity, purpose, and heart. “I am so excited to absorb as much direct and/or related knowledge as possible so that I can work with this knowledge in new ways that can help people understand their dog and help dogs have a better life.”

Are you ready to discover what YOU can do? Explore the opportunities at Unity – Distance Education today and take the first step toward achieving your dreams.

Start YOUR journey to success today!

Apply Now

Learn from Leaders

Learn from Leaders

MS in Biology, BS in Wildlife,

Dr. Abra Foster
Global Expert in Veterinary Medicine and Shelter Care

Learn More About Dr. Foster

Dr. Abra Foster
Global Expert in Veterinary Medicine and Shelter Care

Dr. Abra Foster is a Graduate Adjunct Faculty member and veterinarian. She is a 2016 graduate of Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine and has spent her career working in shelter medicine, low-cost veterinary care, and small animal general practice. She currently splits her time between the FACE Low-Cost Animal Clinic and the Paw Patch Veterinary Clinic in Indianapolis, Indiana. Dr. Foster has a background in Wildlife Management and Education with a B.S. in Wildlife from Purdue University. She worked with the Indianapolis Zoo’s Education Department after earning her undergraduate degree before deciding to return to school to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. In her quest to become a veterinarian, she completed her M.S. in Biology at Indiana University-Purdue University – Indianapolis. Dr. Foster is excited to expand into teaching with Unity Environmental University and bring her unique career experiences to students from all walks of life. She is excited to connect with students and bring her experience in the veterinary field into the classroom to help students learn from real-world applications of the concepts they will be learning. Dr. Foster lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, with her husband and children, where they share their home with 4 amazing cats, 4 amazing dogs, and one very old rabbit. Outside of the veterinary field, Dr. Foster enjoys gardening (flowers, not food), spending time with her family, traveling, and loves to spend a few hours on her day off hitting local thrift stores!

Learn from Leaders

PhD in Experimental Psychology, B.S. in Zoology

Dr. Loraine Fernandez
Global Expert in Animal Cognition and Welfare

Learn More About Dr. Fernandez

Dr. Loraine Fernandez
Global Expert in Animal Cognition and Welfare

Dr. Loraine (Lorie) Fernandez has more than 20 years of experience teaching a variety of courses at the college level in both online and traditional learning environments. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology and a master of art degree in the experimental analysis of behavior from McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. She received her PhD in experimental psychology with a focus in comparative psychology from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2003. Her primary areas of scholarly interests are diverse but broadly address animal learning/cognition and the welfare and behavior of animals housed in captivity. She is specifically interested in the environmental factors that contribute to the quality of life and psychological well-being of animals housed in captivity, particularly with respect to stereotypic or abnormal behavior. Her research has involved a wide variety of animal species, including giant pandas, giraffes, great apes, primates, prosimians, and swordtail fish. She has had the privilege of working and conducting research at Zoo Atlanta, the Smithsonian’s National Zoological Park, the Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, China. She is currently a reviewer for two academic, peer-reviewed journals, Zoo Biology and the Journal for Applied Animal Welfare Science. In addition to teaching at Unity, Dr. Fernandez is the mother of two children. Her hobbies and interests include reading, cooking, traveling, fostering dogs and cats for a local rescue (adopt, don’t shop), and spending time with her family.

Learn from Leaders

DVM BS in Biology

Dr. Elisa Bobrin
Global Expert in Veterinary Science and Animal Care

Learn More About Dr. Bobrin

Dr. Elisa Bobrin
Global Expert in Veterinary Science and Animal Care

Elisa Bobrin, DVM is a licensed veterinarian and has been teaching at the college level for over 24 years, including Manor College in the veterinary technician program and Delaware Valley University in the Animal Science Department. She received her B.S. in Biology from The American University and her D.V.M from the University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Bobrin’s areas of interest include working with small animals (cats and dogs) and exotic animals. While in veterinary school,l she did rotations at SeaWorld and the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In addition, she has conducted research on alligator infertility and intestinal parasites of catfish. Dr. Bobrin’s favorite subjects to teach are Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Animal Nutrition, and Animal Diseases.

Dr. Bobrin has three young adult children, three rescue dogs, and one snake that keep her busy. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, SCUBA diving, going to sporting events, going to the theater, trying new foods, listening to music, and relaxing by the beach.