Certificate Program (9 credits)
What is Laboratory Animal Behavior?
Laboratory animal science encompasses the care and study of animals used in education and research. It includes a diverse array of professionals devoted to improving the lives of people and animals. Some of the disciplines included in lab animal science are animal care, toxicology, animal behavior, reproductive biology, anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, Laboratory animal behavior focuses on the behavior, care, training and behavioral enrichment of animals used in these programs.
Many different species are used in the field of laboratory animal science, including rodents, rabbits, ferrets, dogs, pigs, primates, birds, fish, and amphibians. The proper care of these animals requires a thorough knowledge of their behavior and natural history. Federal regulations require institutions to provide for the psychological well-being of these laboratory animals, including requirements for group housing and the provision of appropriate environmental conditions. But outstanding care goes beyond regulatory compliance, behavioral and environmental enrichment are essential to providing the highest levels of welfare for all animals in captivity. Proper enrichment can reduce stereotypies and other undesirable behaviors while increasing species-typical postures, activities and behavior.
Your ABI Education
Do you want to maximize the welfare of the animals in your care, or to train for positions in lab animal behavior, training and enrichment? Our Laboratory Animal Behavior program will give you the education you need to achieve your goals. We combine comprehensive classes in animal training & enrichment with in depth courses exploring the behavior of common laboratory species. You can choose from our detailed courses on primates, dogs, cats, rodents and rabbits.Upon graduation, you may begin using the designation CLABP, Certified Laboratory Animal Behavior Professional.
Program Requirements
The certificate program in Laboratory Animal Behavior requires satisfactory completion of 15 credit hours, including two required courses and three electives.
Learn more about Careers in Laboratory Animal Behavior.