About the Program

Animal Behavior

Founded in 1968 jointly by the departments of biology and psychology, the animal behavior program requires coursework in basic science while encouraging the student to study the humanities, relevant social science, languages, and cultures. The basic sciences required include chemistry, mathematics, and physics, along with four core courses in biology, four core courses in psychology, laboratories, and upper-class seminars. Research with faculty is a basic aspect of the program. Study abroad is possible, with students most often selecting eastern Africa, Asia, and Australia as environments to augment their study and understanding of animal life.

Of more than 383 persons receiving the B.A. or B.S. in animal behavior since 1968, approximately 5% continued their study in professional schools (medical, dental, veterinary), a third conducted advanced work in an academic field (biology, psychology, zoology, ecology), 40% went into research, zoo, museum, or foundation work, and the remainder have undertaken a variety of productive careers, including communications, law, industry, foreign service, and the ministry.