Primate Behavior
About Us
The Primate Behavior Programs at Central Washington University provides students with interdisciplinary perspectives on nonhuman primate evolution, behavior, and ecology. The program is unique in the United States and is complemented by opportunities for faculty-mentored research and training in captive primate care. The BS degree in Primate Behavior and Ecology was first offered in 1998, the MS degree in Primate Behavior was established in 2008, and the certificate in Captive Primate Care (type B) was approved in 2017 and is again being offered after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. The BS and MS degree programs are intended to serve individuals who plan to earn advanced degrees, who seek careers with non-governmental organizations, or who plan to manage facilities holding nonhuman primates. The captive care certificate prepares students for entry-level jobs in captive primate care based in zoo and sanctuary settings.
The faculty in the Primate Behavior Programs are trained in a number of different fields, with a variety of specializations that provides students with a well-rounded education specific to their interests in the field. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of the program, faculty are trained in biological anthropology, biological sciences, philosophy or psychology.
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