Captive Wildlife - University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Prepare for a Career Working with Wildlife in Human Care

The Captive Wildlife Minor at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point (UWSP) is designed for students who are passionate about animal husbandry, wildlife care, and rehabilitation. This program provides hands-on experience and specialized knowledge for working with animals in zoos, wildlife research facilities, rehabilitation centers, and other managed care settings.

What is the Captive Wildlife Minor?

This 30–34 credit minor focuses on the ethical, biological, and behavioral aspects of wildlife in captivity. Students gain a deep understanding of how captivity affects animal welfare, health, and behavior, and learn practical skills to improve animal care and conservation outcomes.

To complete the minor, students are required to participate in a captive wildlife internship, giving them direct field experience and valuable career clarity.

Core Topics Include:

Animal Ethics
Wildlife Diseases
Animal Physiology
Management of Captive Wildlife
Techniques of Captive Wildlife
Wildlife of North America

Many of these courses overlap with requirements in complementary majors, making the minor an ideal addition for students in:

Wildlife Ecology
Biology
Environmental Education and Interpretation

Hands-On Experience Through Internships

All students pursuing this minor must complete an internship with a captive wildlife organization, which can be used to fulfill both academic credit and career preparation. These real-world experiences are crucial for exploring professional interests and building your résumé.

Recent Internship Sites Include:

Dane County Humane Society
Wildwood Wildlife Park
Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo (NEW Zoo)

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Captive Wildlife Minor have gone on to work at top-tier zoological and wildlife care facilities such as:

Milwaukee County Zoo
Henry Doorly Zoo
Raptor Education Group

The minor prepares you for roles in:

Wildlife Husbandry
Animal Care and Training
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Zoo and Aquarium Operations
Wildlife Education and Interpretation
Research Support for Captive Populations

Why Choose This Minor?

Gain real-world animal care experience
Build knowledge in wildlife biology and ethics
Work with professional wildlife organizations
Enhance your résumé for careers in wildlife care and education
Perfectly complements majors like Wildlife Ecology, Biology, and Environmental Education

Learn More

For full course listings, internship guidance, and how to integrate this minor with your major, visit the UWSP Catalog page or speak with your academic advisor.