The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Professional Development Program currently provides a plethora of Professional Training Courses targeted towards zoo and aquarium personnel, Professional Training Course Scholarships, and facilitates a Zoo and Aquarium Leadership Master's Degree Program. The AZA Professional Development Program is overseen and administered by the AZA Education Department Staff and the AZA Professional Development Committee.
The AZA Education Department and Professional Development Committee maintains the highest standards for our Professional Development Program. Students, instructors, and the AZA community regularly provide feedback to help us continually advance the Program. Historically, a limited number of Professional Training Courses were offered on an annual basis in only in Wheeling, WV. Over the past nine years, AZA has more than doubled the number of Courses our members value, offers Courses in offered in six different locations, and has added the graduate-level Master's Degree Program.
All AZA Professional Training Courses are team-taught by experienced and knowledgeable professionals from the zoo and aquarium industry to provide a thorough and balanced coverage of the subject matter. Students will learn the latest techniques, information, and tools available in the industry and will be afforded an unequalled opportunity to network with the industry's leaders to grow professionally. Our students are then able to bring their newly acquired knowledge back to their zoo or aquarium, allowing the learning to continue as they share this information with colleagues and apply their skills to benefit their institutions. Please see the Course Indexfor detailed information about AZA's Professional Training Courses, but recognize that of these Courses have an enrollment waiting list.
Scholarships!
AZA is pleased to be able to provide a variety of Professional Training Course Scholarhips that pay for student tuition, meals, lodging, travel assistance, and a provide a stipend. Read more about the Professional Training Course Scholarships.
Masters Program
Offered in conjunction with George Mason University, the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) with a concentration in zoo and aquarium leadership, prepares graduate students for advanced careers in modern zoos and aquariums. Specializations in Collections Management, Administration, and Conservation Education are available.
Questions?
Contact the AZA Professional Development Department or call 301-562-0777.