Primate Behavior
Welcome to the Primate Behavior Program
Primatology is the study of the behavior, biology, evolution, and taxonomy of primates including human and non-human primate interactions.
Our BS and MS degrees guide your understanding of the relationships between primates and their environments in either captive or free-range settings. The community built throughout your studies at CWU will continue past graduation and into your professional career. Our unique interdisciplinary curriculum focuses on behavior, social structures, and interactions within the environment in both captive and free-ranging non-human primates. Program faculty are affiliated with the Anthropology, Biological Sciences, Philosophy and Psychology departments giving a truly interdisciplinary experience. Graduates of our programs have gone on to work in research, zoos, captive facilities, sanctuaries, conservation, environmental agencies, and/or continue their education in graduate programs.
Questions? Contact Us.
Dr. April Binder, Primate Behavior Director of Programs
(509)-963-3201
Penelope.Anderson@cwu.edu
About our Program
Connect with our department to explore degree information, get the latest news and event information, meet our faculty, and more.
About Us
About section for the Primate Behavior and Ecology Program.
Student Resources
Collection of resources for current and students in the Primate Behavior and Ecology Program.
Primatology Links
Collection of links for all things related to primatology.
Research Associates
A list of research associates with the Primate Behavior and Ecology Program.
What is Primatology?
Introductory description of primatology.
Primate Behavior Graduate Degree
Information on the Master of Science in Primate Behavior for current and prospective students.
Primate Behavior Graduate Program
Graduate program information for the Primate Behavior
Explore our Degrees
Discover a range of programs designed to inspire creativity, build expertise, and prepare you for a successful career in Primate Behavior.
Course Topics
Understanding Human Evolution – Studying non-human primates helps you uncover the origins of human behavior, social structures, and cognition, providing insights into our own evolutionary history.
Conservation and Wildlife Protection – Many non-human primate species are endangered, and studying their behavior is essential for developing effective conservation strategies to protect them and their habitats.
Ethology and Animal Welfare – By understanding primate behavior, you can improve the care and well-being of primates in zoos, sanctuaries, and other captive environments, ensuring ethical treatment and better management practices.
Consider research in the following areas, or develop your own direction:
Primate Social Structures – Study how primates form and maintain social bonds, including dominance hierarchies, cooperation, and conflict resolution within groups.
Communication and Language – Research can focus on vocalizations, gestures, and facial expressions in primates, exploring how they communicate in different environments.
Primate Cognition and Problem-Solving – Investigate primates’ abilities to use tools, remember past events, and solve complex problems.
Habitat Use and Conservation – Study how primates interact with their environment, their movement patterns, and the impact of human activities on their survival.