
The Zookeeper Assistant School
Did you ever wonder how to become a zookeeper? You might start with a zookeeper assistant school. If you have ever dreamed of working in a zoo, caring for exotic animals, or helping conserve an endangered species, you might consider training to become a zookeeper assistant.
Job Prospects and Zookeeper Assistant Salary
Getting a zookeeper assistant certificate online puts you on a path to fulfilling your dreams of working in a zoo where you can make a difference in the lives of exotic and often endangered animals. What do zookeeper assistants do? Among other things, they care for exotic animals, educate visitors, and help conserve endangered species. Becoming a zookeeper assistant opens doors to several career options.

ABC’s Zookeeper Assistant Certificate Online
Our Zookeeper Assistant Program consists of 10 in-depth stages packed with information. The course contains vital information to prepare you for a career in a zoo or start you on your path to further zookeeper education. You will also learn the basics about conservation and how to care for exotics and help endangered species.
Our program includes information on:
• Species specific husbandry, including carnivores, primates, elephants, and more • Animal housing and exhibits • Animal behavior, enrichment, and training • Animal safety • Exotic animal health and nutrition • Exotic animal health and conservation • Career building • And more! CURRICULUM SNEAK PEEKLearn from Zookeepers & Zoo Job Professionals
Meet the authors and subject matter experts who were involved in the development of ABC’s Zookeeper Assistant Program. They have shared their decades of zookeeping experience in the creation of this highly sought-after program.Meet Alisa Behar – Subject Matter Expert

Meet Kirsten Smith – Co-Author of our Program
Kirsten Smith has a BS degree in Wildlife Biology and Conservation from Texas Tech University and an MS in Zoo and Aquarium Science from Michigan State University. Her educational experience at Texas Tech included two study trips to Africa and Costa Rica to learn about international conservation policies and research procedures.

Previously, Kirsten has assisted the Texas Parks and Wildlife agency on several research projects involving native species such as pronghorn antelope, coyotes, mountain lions, and mule deer. While studying at Michigan State, she was a zookeeper assistant and conducted research at multiple zoos, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Currently, Kirsten volunteers as a zookeeper assistant in the Asia Department of the El Paso Zoo, caring for elephants, orangutans, Sumatran tigers, and other species while continuing her work with Animal Behavior College.
After working with animals from all across the globe, Kirsten’s favorite part is learning how to bring each field of study together to accomplish one goal: provide the best care and protection for all of Earth’s natural resources.
Meet Crystallynn Hetlinger – Co-Author of the Program

Meet Ms. Courtney Deutsch – Co-Author of the Zookeeper Assistant Program
Courtney Deutsch has BS in Zoo Science from Delaware Valley University in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. During her education, she spent summers interning with Lehigh Valley Zoo in Pennsylvania and Zoo Miami in Florida. While working at the latter in the African carnivores and primates department of Zoo Miami, Courtney assisted staff in an ethogram of their pack of African painted dogs while helping to complete exhibit renovations.
How Much Does It Cost to Become an ABC Certified Zookeeper Assistant?
Tuition for our Zookeeper Assistant Program ranges from $1,995 USD to $2,695 USD, depending on your payment arrangement.* on your payment plan.* This price is all-inclusive and covers your learning materials, certification and student support. Speak with an Admissions Counselor today and see what payment plan is right for you. Contact an Admissions at 800-795-3294 *Ask about our discount for Active Military and Veterans who enroll in our distance learning coursesFlexible Online Course & ” A College Near You”
ABC’s Zookeeper Assistant Course is designed so you can keep your current job and still pursue your zookeeper education. Your course materials and tests are all accessed online, meaning they are available 24/7 and you can learn from the comfort and safety of your own home. This allows you to study no matter where you are, giving you the flexibility to fit your education into your current lifestyle. The approximate completion time for our Program is 8 months.Support for Our Students
After you enroll, you will receive the contact information for your personal Program Manager. You will be learning from a zookeeping professional who has real life working knowledge and experience in zoos and zookeeping. They will be there for you throughout your studies and to provide support, answer questions, and grade your exams.ABC Zookeeper Assistant Certification
