Primate Behavior
Primate Behavior Graduate Program
Our program offers students the oppurtunity to obtain an interdisciplinary MS in Primate Behavior in the US
Our Mission
The Primate Behavior Graduate program at Central Washington university provides students with interdisciplinary, problem-oriented, broad-spectrum knowledge relating to primates with a particular focus on conservation issues. The program focuses on primate evolution, behavior and ecology in both free-living and captive settings.
Program Goals and Outcomes
Students entering the program are exposed to coursework and practical experience in the areas of anthropology, biology, and psychology and have opportunities to conduct sanctuary, zoo, and/or field research under the guidance of faculty mentors. The program serves students who will enter the work force for employment in sanctuaries, zoos, field research, conservation agencies, policy, teaching, or who will continue on to Ph.D. programs.
Upon successful completion of the MS in Primate Behavior, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of the field of primatology, including current issues, methods, theories, and topics of study.
- Evaluate the interdisciplinary perspectives and approaches in the field of primatology.
- Examine the benefits of biodiversity.
- Apply content and skills in primatology to potential professional and career goals.
Factors contributing to the unique nature of this program:
- Central's Primate Behavior faculty are interdisciplinary, representing Anthropology, Biology, Philosophy, Primatology, Psychology, and Cultural and Environmental Resource Management.
- CWU has cultivated relationships with agencies that facilitate student research. Students can develop their own research site in consultation with program faculty.
- Although the program focuses on primatology, many theories and methodologies used by primatologists are more broadly applicable (e.g., evolutionary theory, comparative psychology). Students will be made aware of these interdisciplinary connections throughout the core curriculum and have opportunities to study species in addition to nonhuman primates.
- Students will leave the Master’s program with practical experiences in field techniques, behavioral data collection, research design, the use of cutting-edge software and hardware, and statistical analyses that will be vital in their careers or in their acquisition of a Ph.D. degree.
- The program focuses on humane, non-invasive behavioral research with nonhuman primates and emphasizes ethics in primatology and the importance of biodiversity.
WICHE Program
The Primate Behavior program at Central Washington University is part of the Western Regional Graduate Program, through which residents of Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands pay in-state tuition for approved WICHE programs. If you are a resident of one of these states, please indicate that on your application to the program.
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