PSYC 314

Animal Behavior and Cognition

This course is designed for anyone who is interested in or has ever lived with and loved animals. Those pursuing careers in psychology, biology, zoology, animal laboratory services, and veterinary technology will find this course interesting and useful. It consists of a broad survey of general topics and current research in the related fields of animal behavior, animal cognition, animal communication, interactions between human and non-human animals, and conservation biology. Topics addressed in this course include: the principles of evolution, history of the relationship between humans and non-humans, communication between humans and other animals; animals as competitors and resources, research animals and bioethics, animals as companions, animals in therapy and service, behavior of wild animals in zoos, and the future prospects for positive interactions between humans and non-human animals. The course is designed to foster a better understanding of non-human animals, nurture a respect for them, and create an ethic that emphasizes a respect for all life.

Units: 3.0

Hours: 54 hours LEC