Animal Welfare and Behavior, MSAWB

This online Master of Science in Animal Welfare and Behavior provides in depth training in the science of animal welfare to working professionals engaged in animal protection, animal agriculture and food production, animal research, animal oversight or animal health as well as students interested in developing a career in these areas.  The degree includes eight or nine online courses that can be completed in two-four years

For more information, please email onehealth@vet.upenn.edu.

Curriculum 

Four Online Core Courses
VCSP 6330Fundamentals of Animal Behavior6
VCSN 6390Animal Welfare Science6
VCSP 6390Animals & Society6
VCSN 6500Applied Animal Welfare and Behavior6
Four Online Advanced Courses
VCSN 6590Contemporary Issues in Animal Welfare3
VCSN 6600Animal Welfare Assessment3
Track Specific Electives
VCSN 6520Regulations and Animal Welfare3
VCSN 6580Evolution of Animal Welfare3
Original Research
Proseminar Course6
Capstone Seminar6
Field Research 16
Total Credit Hours54
1

For field research students only


The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.


First Year
FALL
VCSN 6390Animal Welfare Science6
VCSP 6390Animals & Society6
SPRING
VCSP 6330Fundamentals of Animal Behavior6
VCSN 6500Applied Animal Welfare and Behavior6
Second Year
FALL
VCSN 6600Animal Welfare Assessment3
VCSN 6520Regulations and Animal Welfare3
Proseminar Course6
SPRING
VCSN 6580Evolution of Animal Welfare3
VCSN 6590Contemporary Issues in Animal Welfare3
Capstone Seminar6
SUMMER
Mentored Thesis Research, Writing and Defense6