Anthrozoology Courses

ANZ 1101 - Orientation to Anthrozoology
Hours: 1
This course serves as an introduction to the field of anthrozoology and its intersection with agricultural sciences and other disciplines. Students will explore the foundational concepts of anthrozoology, understand its relevance to various industries, and learn about campus resources and support available to them. The course aims to provide insights into the anthrozoology curriculum and course content, ensuring that students have a clear understanding of their academic journey.

ANZ 1301 - Introduction to Companion and Exotic Animal Sciences
Hours: 3
This course provides students with an overview of the fundamental concepts and principles in the field of companion and exotic animal sciences. Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities, students will explore the biology, behavior, nutrition, health, and management of a variety of companion and exotic animals. The course aims to foster an understanding of responsible care practices and ethical considerations for these animals in various contexts.

ANZ 3301 - Progression and Transformation of Human-Animal Relationships
Hours: 3
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the historical progression of human-animal relationships and the transformative impact of these interactions on both humans and animals. Students will analyze the diverse roles of animals in human societies, including their contributions to warfare, agriculture, culture, and more. The course will also examine the development of domestic and captive animals, exploring the physical and behavioral changes associated with domestication and captivity. The focus will be on understanding the complex interplay between humans and animals throughout history and the present, with an emphasis on the effects of domestication and captivity on animals' genetics, behavior, and well-being. Prerequisites: ANS 1319 or ANZ 1301 and ENG 1301 with a C or higher.

ANZ 3310 - Public and Personal Relationships with Animals
Hours: 3
This course delves into the multifaceted impact of human-animal relationships on various aspects of society, exploring the public and personal connections humans have with animals. Through the examination of different types of relationships, students will analyze the portrayal of animals in media, literature, and fiction, and its influence on public perceptions and interactions with animals. Students will address questions such as why certain animals are kept as pets, how animal portrayal in media affects perceptions, and how fiction shapes human-animal interactions. By exploring the intersection of human-animal relationships and media, this course aims to enhance students' critical thinking and understanding of the complexities surrounding our interactions with animals. Prerequisites: ENG 1301.

ANZ 3331 - Animals in Global Cultural Contexts
Hours: 3
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of human-animal interactions from a cultural perspective across diverse societies worldwide. Students will analyze and discuss the multifaceted factors that contribute to the relationships between humans and animals on a global scale. By examining economic, cultural, religious, geographic, and political considerations, students will gain insights into the complex and dynamic ways in which humans interact with animals across different cultural contexts. The course will focus on recent and current cultural factors that shape global human-animal relationships, fostering a nuanced understanding of the interplay between culture, society, and animals. Prerequisites: ENG 1301.

ANZ 3332 - Behavior of Companion and Exotic Animals
Hours: 3
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the behavior of companion animals, captive exotic animals, and those in the wild. Students will study the significance of typical behaviors and stereotypies in various species, while also delving into cognition, neurotypical regulation of stress, and behavioral responses. The course emphasizes the importance of appropriate husbandry and management practices, including nutrition, enclosure design, and handling techniques for ensuring the well-being of animals in different settings. By examining behavior from both a physiological and environmental perspective, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of animal behavior and its practical implications. Prerequisites: ENG 1301 and BSC 1406.

ANZ 3335 - Laws and Regulations of Animal Care and Use
Hours: 3
This course provides an in-depth examination of the legal and regulatory frameworks governing animal care and use across various contexts, including livestock, companion animals, captive exotic animals, and wildlife. Students will explore guidelines and regulations established by regulatory bodies such as the USDA, AALAC, AVMA, and others in the United States, while also considering global regulatory bodies and guidelines. The course emphasizes current legal issues and challenges related to animal care and welfare, including enforcement mechanisms. By analyzing laws and regulations, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the legal aspects of animal care and use. Prerequisites: ENG 1302 and ANS 1319 or ANZ 1301 or BSC 1407.

ANZ 4101 - Career Exploration in Anthrozoology
Hours: 1
This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the career opportunities available within the discipline of Anthrozoology. Through a series of interactive activities, mock interviews, guest speaker sessions, and networking events, students will gain insights into potential career paths upon graduation. The course will emphasize practical preparation for entering the workforce, including resume building, interview techniques, and the development of essential soft skills. By the end of the course, students will be better equipped to pursue fulfilling careers related to Anthrozoology. Prerequisites: Junior standing.

ANZ 4303 - Communicating Science to the Public
Hours: 3
This course explores effective methods of translating complex scientific concepts into engaging and accessible content for diverse public audiences. Students will learn various communication modalities, including public speaking, social media utilization, and writing, to convey scientific information to the general public. The course emphasizes the importance of clear and accurate science communication, with a focus on adapting technical information from peer-reviewed sources into material that resonates with non-expert audiences. Through practical exercises and projects, students will enhance their ability to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding. Prerequisites: ENG 1302.