Degree Programs
Following are university programs from around the world that offer degrees, certificates, or specializations in subjects relating to human-animal studies. These programs do not include veterinary programs or law school programs. Veterinary programs can be found linked here while law schools can be found linked here. Animal-assisted therapy training programs can be found here. Please send additions or changes to gala.argent@animalsandsociety.org.
Certificate Programs
Bircham International University Program in Animal Assisted Therapy
Hudson Valley Community College Certificate Program in Animal Policy
Hudson Valley Community College is offering a certificate program is designed for those who wish to pursue or maintain a career in the field of animal advocacy. The program is also designed for those who simply wish to increase their knowledge regarding the legal protection of animals.Some students may continue on to become advocates, while others want to work in other animal-related fields.Hudson Valley Community College is the only community college in the nation offering a certificate program in Animal Policy. This program is offered through the Criminal Justice, Forensic Science and Public Administration Department.
Idaho State University Certificate In Animal Assisted Interventions In Counseling
Institute for Humane Education
The Institute for Humane Education offers several graduate degree and certificate programs in humane education — the only programs of their kind in North America. These distance-learning programs are offered through a partnership with the highly respected and accredited graduate school of Valparaiso University. The programs include a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Humane Education; a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Humane Education; an M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership, with a Concentration in Humane Education; an M.A. in Liberal Studies, with a Concentration in Humane Education; a credit-bearing Graduate Certificate in Humane Education (which can be either stand-alone or added to an existing degree); and a new Ph.D! IHE’s graduate programs provide in-depth training in comprehensive humane education, helping educators of all types gain the skills, knowledge and strategies to teach about the interconnected issues of animal protection, human rights, environmental preservation, and media, culture & consumerism.
Learning Animals/Institute for Zooanthropology
Madonna University Certificate in Animal Cruelty
Oakland University Animal Assisted Therapy Degree Program
Texas State University Animal-Assisted Counseling Academy
Thompson River University Animal Welfare Certificate Program
This is a program of studies for animal care givers who are interested in upgrading their work skills and for individuals interested in a career in Animal Welfare. The Animal Welfare Certificate Program has been jointly developed by Thompson Rivers University (TRU), and the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA).
Tri County Community College Animal Assisted Interactions Concentration
University of Colorado Boulder Certificate Program in Animals & Society (2018)
The Animals and Society certificate builds on a rapidly growing interdisciplinary field devoted to the critical examination and evaluation of the relationships between humans and nonhuman animals, whether historical or contemporary, factual, fictional, or symbolic, beneficial or detrimental. The program requirements emphasize scholarship from the social sciences and humanities, but include elective options in the natural sciences. The interdisciplinary approach helps students explore the complexities of animals’ lives, human-animal relationships, ethical and moral concerns about animals, representations of animals and humans, and the significance of animals in human evolution, history, and civilization. This certificate has an especially practical use for students in the social sciences and humanities who would like to pursue careers or interests related to wild or domesticated animals, but do not wish to become biologists, zoologists, or veterinarians. Examples of career options include:
- Development, management, policy work, research, outreach, marketing, lobbying, or other work in animal protection or environmental organizations;
- Administrative, fundraising, marketing, or outreach jobs at animal shelters;
- Humane or environmental education;
- Jobs with government agencies, such as the United States Department of Agriculture, the Fisheries and Wildlife Service, or others;
- Animal-assisted therapy (with a master’s degree in social work);
- Wildlife rehabilitation;
- Humane law enforcement.
Students might also consider pursuing graduate degrees in Human-Animal Studies, Anthrozoology, or related fields. For more information, or to apply to the certificate in Animals and Society, contact Professor Leslie Irvine at leslie.irvine@colorado.edu Click here to learn more.
University of Denver Animals and Human Health Certificate program
University of Denver Equine-Assisted Mental Health Practitioner Certificate Program
University of Pennsylvania Online Graduate Certificate in Animal Welfare and Behavior
The University of Pennsylvania is pleased to announce an exciting new initiative. Beginning this Fall 2019, Penn Vet will be launching our Online Graduate Certificate in Animal Welfare and Behavior. Our Certificate program is the first online academic program offered by our School, and as a faculty member in the program, I’m especially looking forward to sharing my passion and expertise with a broader audience. Our certificate program is comprised of four graduate level courses, namely: Animal Welfare Science, Fundamentals of Animal Behavior, Applied Animal Welfare and Behavior and Animals and Society.
University of North Texas Animal Assisted Therapy Program
Undergraduate Minors
Appalachian State University Animal Studies Minor
As our global environmental crisis intensifies and the vulnerability and interrelation of all life systems becomes increasingly apparent, the interdisciplinary field of Animal Studies has emerged, bringing together scholars in the sciences, social sciences and humanities to address past and present relations between human and nonhuman animals. This minor provides an understanding of the concept of the animal by examining how our relationships with nonhuman animals are mediated by culture. Complementing a broad array of majors in the sciences and humanities, the minor explores the social, political and ecological effects our attitudes toward other animals have in and on the world.
This minor helps prepare students for careers and/or graduate education in a number of possible fields including, but not limited to:
- wildlife rehabilitation
- park services
- conservation
- animal advocacy
- non-profit work
- veterinary medicine
- primate anthropology
- animal-assisted therapies
- sustainable farming
- publishing, advertising, creative writing and/or professional writing
- cultural studies
- teaching on any level
Beacon College Anthrozoology Minor
The anthrozoology minor is an interdisciplinary program open to all Beacon students. The curriculum provides students with a broad view of animal behavior and human interaction with other species. It can be combined with a degree in another field, such as business. Sample classes include:
- Principles of Animal Husbandry & Care
- Principles of Organismal Biology I & II w/Lab
- Science of Animal Welfare
- Animal Behavior & Communication
- Animals in the Public Eye
- Animal Training & Enrichment
- Conservation Biology
- Animal Shelter Management
- Biology & Behavior of Companion Animals
- Conservation: People, Wildlife & Wild Places
- Zoo & Aquarium Science
Brock University Critical Animal Studies Minor and Concentration
Canisius College Anthrozoology Minor
Drury University Forum on Animal Rights and Animal Studies Minor
Green Mountain College Animal Studies Minor
Minnesota State University Human-Animal Studies Minor
The Human-Animal Studies minor investigates animals themselves, as well as past and present relationships between human and non-human animals. Drawing from the social sciences and the humanities, it seeks to spark new conversations about ethical and moral concerns surrounding animals, the protection of animals, and representations of animals. The minor will be especially beneficial for students pursuing a broad range of animal-related careers, including but not limited to careers in animal shelters, sanctuaries, veterinary centers, research labs, zoos, farms, and wildlife management.
New Mexico State University Human-Animal Interactions Minor
Research into Human Animal Interactions (HAI) has increased in the past 10-15 years as human health and wellness disciplines look for progressive approaches to incorporate companion animals into various modalities and treatments in their respective fields. For professions that want to incorporate companion animals, having strong university based knowledge on companion animals will be critical for maintaining appropriate risk management procedures, as well as for ensuring animal well-being in professional settings where humans are in close contact with the animals. Currently, the primary companion animal species involved in HAI are dogs and horses.
New York University Animal Studies Minor
Ohio State University Human and Animal Interactions Minor
Saint Joseph’s University Animal Studies Minor
Texas Christian University Human-Animal Relationships Minor
The Interdisciplinary minor in Human-Animal Relationships (HARE) provide theoretical and practical expertise in the crucial, diverse, yet often overlooked roles animals play in human society, culture and well-being. Moreover, the minor helps students understand how humans impact the lives of other animals, both wild and domestic.
University of Redlands Human-Animal Studies Minor
University of Windsor Minor in Anthrozoology
University of Wollongong Animal Studies Minor
In order to declare a minor in Animal Studies, students are required to complete 24 credit points from the following courses:
- Environmental Philosophy: Animals, Nature and Ethics
- Living with Animals
- Animals and Ecology in Literature and Film
- Indigenous Peoples and the Environment
- Environmental Sociology and Politics
- New Social Movements
- Society and Environment: Resources, Challenges, Futures
- Animal Law
- Human Security, Global Capitalism and the Environment
- Climate Change Policy, Possible Futures
- Bioethics
- Globalisation and Contemporary Art
Wilson College Minor in Animal Studies
Animal Studies: Equines
Animal Studies: Canines
Animal Studies: Felines & Exotics
Animal Studies: Wildlife
Animal Studies: Farm Animals
Bachelor’s Degrees
Aurora University Human-Animal Studies Major (2018)
The human-animal studies major prepares students with the academic foundation and hands-on skills needed to enter a variety of expanding animal- related fields. Core coursework provides essential knowledge concerning animal science and human-animal interaction as well as the principles of business and psychology. Your studies begin with coursework that examines animal care, the science behind animal-assisted therapy and our role as caretakers to the environment, including relationships with other animals. In your third year, you will choose either the Animal Assisted Therapy Track or the Animal Welfare Track. Both tracks involve additional interdisciplinary courses that engage you by supplementing relevant literature with experiential learning. Our human-animal studies program is designed to prepare students for certification in a variety of fields. You can choose to continue on to graduate school or start a career in animal-assisted therapy, animal control, shelter or rescue management, animal welfare investigation, grant writing and management for nonprofits involving animals or a multitude of other professions. Click here to learn more.
Beacon College Anthrozoology Major (2016)
Our new major explores the extraordinary relationships and interactions that people have with animals, combining scientific study and exploration with theoretical applications in the areas of animal welfare, animal behavior and conservation. Our unique approach includes classroom instruction and hands-on learning. Download our brochure or read on for details.
On campus, you’ll work directly with a variety of animals, including:
- Domesticated animals
- Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs)
- Large birds (pigeons)
- Snakes
- Fish
- Insects
You can choose from three distinct tracks based on your interests and career goals:
- Captive Wildlife Care
- Domestic Animal Care
- Wildlife Conservation
You can also extend the career value and marketability of your anthrozoology degree by adding a minor in another field, such as education, hospitality or entrepreneurship.
In this major, you will have access to special learning opportunities and internships through our close relationships with area employers and organizations that work with animals. In addition to on-campus experiences, you will participate in hands-on learning at area zoos, rescue shelters, stables, farms and more.
All anthrozoology majors are required to complete an internship. We work with you to identify and secure an internship in the Leesburg area. If you prefer to complete a summer internship, we will work with you to identify an internship close to your home or at a location of interest to you.
Bircham University Human-Animal Studies Major (unaccredited)
You may enroll at Bircham International University from anywhere in the world and at any time in the year and earn distance degree programs choosing from over 200 majors of study and with complete compatibility with your professional career.
Specialist – Expert Diploma – Human Animal Studies
Bachelor’s Degree – Human Animal Studies
Master’s Degree – Human Animal Studies
Doctor Ph.D. Degree – Human Animal Studies
Human Animal Studies via distance learning
This program examines the complex and multidimensional relationship between humans and animals. Anthrozoology combines approaches from several disciplines in the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. It analyzes the positive and mutual effects of human-animal relationship and their interactions.
Academic Supervisor : Vasiliki Protopapadaki
More information about this academic supervisor at Bircham University Human Network. More info…
Courses list (each subject accounts for 3 academic credits):
1 BIU Earned Credit = 1 USA Semester Credit (15 hours of learning) = 1 ECTS Credit (30 hours of study).
Diversity in Animals
Natural Intelligent Systems
Vertebrates
Animal Behavior
Domestic Animals
Animal Human Bond
Emotional Intelligence
Animal Ethology
Zoology
Ecology & Human Impact
Bird & Mammal Conservation
Cognitive Ethology
Human Ethology
Human Animal Studies
Human Animal Studies Online via distance learning
This module is applicable to Specialist, Expert, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Ph.D. (Doctor) Degree Programs. This academic program is designed at the postgraduate level (Master’s or Doctoral). This module may also be adapted to complete the course requirements of Specialist, Expert Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree. A further option is the enrollment into each of the courses listed within this specialization module. This module may be combined or completed with other modules from this faculty. More info…
Please note: this program is not accredited.
Canisius College Animal Behavior, Ecology and Conservation Major
Carroll College Anthrozoology Major (2011)
Duquesne University Humane Leadership Major
Eastern Kentucky University Animal Studies Major (2010)
The Animal Studies program at EKU includes faculty and courses in a variety of disciplines including biology, anthropology, sociology, law, agriculture, and psychology. This unique interdisciplinary approach will help you to fully explore the complexities of animals’ lives, human-animal relationships, ethical and moral concerns about animals, representations of animals and humans, and the significance of animals in human evolution, history, culture, and civilization. Click here to learn more.
Eckerd College Animal Studies Major (2019)
Animal Studies is a truly interdisciplinary major, drawing from the natural sciences, the social sciences, and the humanities to trace the history and consequences of human relationships to animals. These relationships are interdependent; while humans have certainly had a tremendous impact upon the lives of non-human animals, non-human animals have also shaped human thought, culture, and economic production—even our very understanding of what humanity is—since our earliest origins.
Thus, the Animal Studies major at Eckerd College helps students become more knowledgeable about animals and their various relationships with humans, introduces them to multiple ways of understanding animals and their relationship to humankind, and provides experiences that allow students to apply and expand this knowledge. As a student majoring in Animal Studies, you will also minor (or double major) in a subject of your choosing. This additional course of study will help you think critically about human relationships with animals across disciplines, as well as to envision a wider range of professional careers.
Green Mountain College Animal Conservation and Care Major
Lees-McRae College Wildlife Rehabilitation Program
Unity College Animal Health and Behavior B.S. (2019)
The online B.S. in Animal Health and Behavior from Unity college prepares students for careers at zoos and aquariums, in the veterinary fields, as animal welfare officers, and for a future-focused on the care and well-being of wild and captive animals around the world. This degree provides students with the essential knowledge and professional skills to succeed in settings such as veterinary medicine degree programs, companion and wild animal care facilities, wildlife rehabilitation, and preserves. Unity College has been a leader in educating animal caretakers for over 50 years, and now this important biology-focused degree is available online to anyone, anywhere.
Wilson College Major in Animal Studies
Graduate Degrees
American College of Applied Science Companion Animal Behavior Counseling Degree Program
Bircham University Human-Animal Studies Doctoral Program (unaccredited, 2018)
You may enroll at Bircham International University from anywhere in the world and at any time in the year and earn distance degree programs choosing from over 200 majors of study and with complete compatibility with your professional career. Specialist – Expert Diploma – Human Animal Studies Bachelor’s Degree – Human Animal Studies Master’s Degree – Human Animal Studies Doctor Ph.D. Degree – Human Animal Studies
Human Animal Studies via distance learning
This program examines the complex and multidimensional relationship between humans and animals. Anthrozoology combines approaches from several disciplines in the social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. It analyzes the positive and mutual effects of human-animal relationship and their interactions. Academic Supervisor : Vasiliki Protopapadaki More information about this academic supervisor at Bircham University Human Network. More info… Courses list (each subject accounts for 3 academic credits): 1 BIU Earned Credit = 1 USA Semester Credit (15 hours of learning) = 1 ECTS Credit (30 hours of study). Diversity in Animals Natural Intelligent Systems Vertebrates Animal Behavior Domestic Animals Animal Human Bond Emotional Intelligence Animal Ethology Zoology Ecology & Human Impact Bird & Mammal Conservation Cognitive Ethology Human Ethology Human Animal Studies
Human Animal Studies Online via distance learning
This module is applicable to Specialist, Expert, Bachelor’s, Master’s & Ph.D. (Doctor) Degree Programs. This academic program is designed at the postgraduate level (Master’s or Doctoral). This module may also be adapted to complete the course requirements of Specialist, Expert Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree. A further option is the enrollment into each of the courses listed within this specialization module. This module may be combined or completed with other modules from this faculty. More info… Click here to learn more.
Please note: this program is not accredited.
Canisius College Anthrozoology Masters Program (2012)
Canisius College offers an online Master of Science in Anthrozoology. In this two-year, online graduate program, students will have considerable latitude in choosing courses that engage fundamental issues in animal studies, including environmental issues, education, law and policy, ethics, religion, literature, economics, shelters, zoos and, of course, companion animals, wildlife, research animals, and food animals. Click here to learn more.
Colorado State University Graduate Program in Environmental Ethics and Animal Welfare
Hartpury College Masters in Research Anthrozoology
Harvard Law School Animal Law and Policy Program (2014)
The HLS Animal Law & Policy Program is committed to analyzing and improving the treatment of animals by the legal system. The Program engages with academics, students, practitioners, and decision makers to foster discourse, facilitate scholarship, develop strategic solutions, and build innovative bridges between theory and practice in the rapidly evolving area of animal law and policy.
Hunter College Masters and Certificate in Animal Behavior and Conservation
Institute for Humane Education Graduate Programs
International University College of Turin Masters in Food, Law and Finance
Lewis and Clark Law School LLM Degree (2012)
Lewis and Clark Law School is proud to offer the world’s first and only advanced legal degree in animal law. With a rich, pioneering history in the field of animal law, Lewis & Clark is uniquely positioned to offer an LL.M. degree and provide rigorous academic and professional training. Click here to learn more.
Madonna University Masters in Humane Studies
Messerli Research Institute Masters Program in Human-Animal Interactions
- Behavioural and Cognition Biology
- Comparative Medicine
- Animal Husbandry and Animal Welfare including Legal Framework of Human- Animal interactions
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science and Ethics
Michigan State University Animal Studies PhD Program
New York University Animal Studies Masters (2018)
NYU Animal Studies, active since 2010 and housed in the Department of Environmental Studies, is a central gathering place for people interested in these issues. Students work with leading scholars in Animal Studies, Environmental Studies, and related fields; participate in intensive seminars, workshops, and conferences; and engage in a wide range of theoretical, practical, and creative pursuits upon graduation. The NYU Animal Studies M.A. Program, which builds on this foundation, empowers students to 1) examine the key debates that define the field of Animal Studies, 2) perform original research that contributes to these debates, and 3) understand the connections across animal issues, environmental issues, and social issues. This program is designed for people who 1) plan to work in professions that provide care for animals, 2) seek to advance understanding of animals in the world, 3) seek to improve the wellbeing of animals in the world, or 4) are enrolled at NYU and want to pursue a discounted graduate education through an NYU B.A.-M.A. Program.
Prescott College Master of Arts, Equine Assisted Learning
Purdue University MS and PhD in Human-Animal Interaction
Saybrook University PhD in Humane Education Studies
Our Ph.D. Managing Organizational Systems: Humane Education Specialization is the result of a partnership with the Institute for Humane Education and Valparaiso University. Through the lens of education, this Ph.D. organizational systems program examines the connections between four areas of social justice:
- Environmental ethics
- Animal protection
- Human rights
- Cultural change-making
Ph.D. Graduates will learn to create transformational change in educational settings by building global relevance and a systems-oriented approach into their work and educational outreach. Focusing on social, economic, political, and structural change, graduates will be prepared to work as administrators, educators, and consultants—find successful careers in schools, universities, and government agencies. As humane educators, they are able to apply principles of creative and critical thinking, civic engagement, and informed decision-making across disciplines, at all levels of education.
Tufts Master of Science in Animals and Public Policy (1995)
The Center for Animals and Public Policy (CAPP) advances research, policy analysis, education and service pertaining to the important roles animals play in society, and explores the ethical implications of the human-animal relationship. The Center offers the Masters of Science in Animals and Public Policy (MAPP) program and is also home to the Ethics and Values curriculum within the DVM program. The work done at the Center revolves around three areas of focus: Animals in the Community, Animals in Research, and Animals in the Environment. Click here to learn more.
Universitat Pompeo Fabra MA in International Studies on Media, Power and Difference
- Women and gender studies
- Poverty and war conflicts
- Intercultural communication
- Critical animal and media studies
University Autonoma of Barcelona Masters in Animal Law and Society
Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona Graduate Diploma in Anthrozoology
University of British Columbia Graduate Program in Animal Welfare
This program offers a Ph.D. or M.Sc. in Animal Science specializing in Animal Welfare. Students joining our program usually have a background in a relevant area of science such as animal behavior, animal science, veterinary medicine, or, very occasionally, a different background but an interest in completing a science-based graduate degree. Students generally do a thesis in our core research area – animal welfare in relation to the housing and management of animals. Currently the majority of research relates to the welfare of cattle, lab animals, and companion animals. Students interested in welfare topics where we do not have sufficient expertise (for example, the welfare of zoo animals, marine mammals and other free-living wildlife, or improved management of captive primates) may be accepted on the condition that they secure appropriate co-supervision from outside the program.
University of Canterbury PhD in Human-Animal Studies (2018)
Students undertaking the PhD in Human-Animal Studies (PhD HUAN) at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand will work with supervisors drawn from a pool of over a dozen academic staff working in many different areas, and will be part of the lively and inclusive research culture of the New Zealand Centre for Human-Animal Studies. Available areas of supervision include but are not limited to: animals in literature, popular culture and the visual arts; critical studies of agriculture, food production, pet-keeping and wildlife management; animals and environments; multispecies ethnographies; meat-eating, vegetarianism and veganism; animals and emergency/disaster management; animals in theory and philosophy; animals in history; postcolonial animal studies; animals and the history of science. Click here to learn more.
University of Denver Animal-Assisted Social Work Certificate
University of Edinburgh Masters in Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law
University of Exeter Masters and PhD in Anthrozoology
University of Pisa Masters in Veterinary Clinical Ethology
Université Rennes 2 Animaux et société (Animals in Society; French)
Do you need training in animal studies?
Do you want to be able to use analytical tools in ethics, sociology, geography, law to deal with public policies on animal welfare?
Would you like to understand what is at stake in debates about the status of nonhuman animals?
This university lifelong training programme leading to qualification offers 77 training hours on:
- animal studies
- education and awareness-raising
- food, agriculture, eating habits
- animal law
- the sociology of human-animal relationships
Applications open April, 22 – May, 13: https://candidatures.univ-rennes2.fr
Target audience:
- Teachers, educators
- Workers in the private sector, NGO employees
- Sustainable development managers, animal care and service workers, etc.
Tuition fees €1.170
For more information, contact Emilie Dardenne, Université Rennes 2
emilie.dardenne@univ-rennes2.fr
University of Sterling Human-Animal Interaction Masters Program
University of Tennessee Veterinary Social Work MSSW Veterinary Social Work Certificate
University of Winchester Masters in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law (ONLINE)
This course, provided entirely online via distance learning, provides a strong grounding in animal welfare science, ethics and law. Students gain the necessary skills to develop a scientifically rigorous assessment of the welfare state of animals in a diverse variety of settings, and master the main ethical theories concerning our relationships with other animals. Students learn about the diversity of settings in which animals live or are used, including farming, transportation and slaughter, laboratories, homes, zoos and various other entertainment locales, and about free-ranging animals in natural environments. The core modules include:
- Research Preparation and Development
- Animals and Society
- Animal Interest, Capacities and Ethical Considerations
- Animal Behaviour and Psychological States
- Animal Welfare Issues I
- Animal Welfare Issues II
- Dissertation
Valparaiso University Masters in Humane Education
Yale Law School Law, Ethics and Animals Program (founded 2019)
The Law, Ethics & Animals Program (LEAP) at Yale Law School is a multidisciplinary think-and-do tank dedicated to: (1) drawing the attention of leading thinkers and doers to the deep questions of conscience and law that human-animal relationships and industrialized animal cruelty raise; and (2) empowering Yale University scholars and students to produce positive legal and political change for animals, people, and the environment upon which they depend. LEAP leads and coordinates a diverse program of activities that serve students and scholars at Yale, and that contribute to defining, expanding, and advancing the field of animal law. LEAP’s programming includes: academic and experiential animal law courses; the Climate, Animals, Food, and Environment Law & Policy Lab (“CAFE Lab”) — the first of its kind in the nation — where students work with experts to develop new legal and political strategies to address the multiple externalized costs of industrial animal agriculture; a student fellows program and active support for student research projects and publications; regular lectures, panels, and speaker events that bring leading thinkers — including lawmakers, scholars, artists, scientists, advocates, and journalists — to Yale’s campus to inspire, enrich, and inform the Program’s work; and the “When We Talk About Animals” podcast series. The Program’s work is highly interdisciplinary and we often partner with schools, departments, and other centers and programs across Yale University and beyond.
Law School Programs
Don’t see your course or degree program on our list? Please let us know about it!