Discover how meaningful collaborations between universities and animal care organizations can elevate welfare standards, expand research opportunities, and strengthen industry impact. Participants learn how to identify the right partners, design mutually beneficial projects, and navigate the practical and ethical details that make partnerships successful.
Includes: Sample outreach templates, partnership planning worksheets, and examples of successful cross-institution collaborations.
Description:
This course breaks down the process of forming effective partnerships between academia and animal care settings. Participants learn how to approach potential collaborators, define shared goals, and design feasible welfare-focused projects. The course covers ethics, data sharing, communication structures, and the practical considerations needed for smooth and productive collaboration. Whether your team is hoping to start its first research project or strengthen an existing partnership, this course offers clear, actionable guidance.
Who it’s for:
Leaders, curators, researchers, educators, and program managers in zoos, aquariums, shelters, sanctuaries, and universities.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding the shared goals—and differing languages—of academia and animal care
- How to design realistic, welfare-centered research and education projects
- Building trust, agreements, and communication structures that support long-term collaboration
- Ethics, data-sharing considerations, authorship, and institutional expectations
- Real-world examples of successful partnerships and the strategies that made them work
When, Where & How:
Duration: Flexible, multi-part series. Self-paced modules with optional office hours and Q&A with the instructor.
Frequency: One-time or recurring, depending on organizational needs
Format: Virtual (In-person workshop option available upon request).
Pricing:
- Individual and group rates available
- Discounts for multiple enrollments or group registrations
Why this matters:
Collaboration expands what’s possible. When animal care organizations and universities work together:
- Welfare challenges are explored with deeper scientific insight
- Staff gain access to new training, tools, and research support
- Students get meaningful, real-world learning experiences
- Institutions strengthen credibility and attract funding
- Projects gain visibility through shared publications and presentations
Strong partnerships accelerate welfare progress, strengthen community impact, and bring complementary strengths together in service of animals and the people who care for them.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Partnership strategy session for your organization
- Review of proposed project ideas or research designs
- Facilitation of first meetings or cross-institution planning
Earn Your Certification
Participants who complete all course components—including lessons, practice exercises, and the final applied assessment—receive an Animal Wellbeing Solutions Certificate of Completion.
This certificate is professionally endorsed by Animal Wellbeing Solutions, verifying that the participant has demonstrated competence in the skills taught in the course (e.g., behavioral observation, welfare assessment, emotional indicators, etc.).
How It Works
- Complete the course modules (video lessons, readings, or workshops).
- Submit the required assignments or assessments—usually a short observation exercise or applied project.
- Receive instructor feedback confirming successful completion.
- Download your personalized AWS-endorsed certificate directly from the course portal or receive it via email.
What You Can Do With It
- Add it to your resume or CV under Certifications or Professional Development
- Upload it to LinkedIn and other professional profiles
- Present it to your organization or supervisor as evidence of training
- Use it to support applications for internships, promotions, or advanced responsibilities
Why It Matters
An AWS-endorsed certificate signals that the participant has been trained through a science-based, welfare-focused, and industry-relevant program. It demonstrates initiative, applied skills, and a commitment to high-quality animal care—making it meaningful for hiring managers, graduate programs, and professional development evaluations.
