Program Objectives

This program provides a structured undergraduate degree track with a main focus on interdisciplinary, applicable,broad-spectrum knowledge relating to primates. Students in this program will be exposed to coursework and practical experience form at least three academic departments and have the opportunity to conduct actual lab and/or field work as undergraduates.

Majors will develop and demonstrate specific skills and knowledge which will prepare them for careers in primate studies and care. Students in this program gain an edge in access to graduate school, and the broad nature of their degree will provide them greater leeway in making decisions about a specific area of graduate study and future career paths. For those majors not oriented toward graduate level academic paths, this program prepares them for entrance into the job market of laboratory or animal care technician. In addition to their qualifications, these students will incorporate a larger body of knowledge regarding primates' behavior, evolution and ecology in their work than most lab technicians.

The graduates of this program will enhance the understanding,appropriate utilization, and care of non-human primates. From rainforest conservation to K-12 learning programs, from bio-medical research to sanctuaries and rehabilitation projects, from zoos to behavioral research stations - the study, care, maintenance, and understanding of the non-human primates. The scientific and moral implications in the study of primates are dramatic, and well trained, experienced, responsible graduates of this program will endeavor to assist this field of study to increase and flourish in a pluralistic,interdisciplinary, ethically informed manner.