Interested in Comparative Psychology?

PSYC 3383: Animal Behavior

In this course, students get a comprehensive understanding of evolutionary and mechanistic approaches to studying animal behavior, with a focus on comparative and integrative perspectives. No prior biology knowledge is needed, making it accessible to all curious minds. The prerequisite for this course is PSYC 2301.

PSYC 4383: Animal Welfare

In this course, students explore how animal cognition, motivation, emotion, and learning affect well-being. Using the Five Domains Model (nutrition, environment, health, behavior, and mental state), students learn how to assess and improve animal welfare through enrichment, ethical decision-making, and evidence-based care in zoos, research settings, and community environments. A prerequisite of 9 hours of Psychology is required for enrollment.

PSYC 4383: Primate Behavior

In this course, students delve into the captivating realm of primates, examining their evolutionary history, classification, habitats, diets, and more. The course covers in-depth insights into primate behavior, communication, and social structures, fostering an understanding of the connections between human psychology and primatology. A prerequisite of 9 hours of Psychology is required for enrollment.

PSYC 4383: Zoo Animal Behavioral Management

This course examines science-based behavioral management in zoological settings. Drawing on learning theory and applied behavior analysis, students explore how positive reinforcement training, environmental enrichment, and behavior modification support species-appropriate behavior, husbandry and veterinary care, psychological well-being, and animal welfare. Students will design and evaluate evidence-based behavioral management plans for zoo animals. Topics include operant conditioning, reinforcement, shaping, cooperative care, enrichment, behavioral problem-solving, and intervention assessment. Through case studies and applied projects, students develop practical skills in welfare-focused animal management.

4380: Directed Research

In this course, students can engage in faculty-supervised research within zoo-based studies. Participants will conduct research in areas of shared interest, presenting their findings through oral and written presentations to fellow students and faculty. Repeatable for additional credit with varying topics, the prerequisite includes PSYC 2401, PSYC 3325, and the instructor's consent, allowing students to earn up to 6 credits.

6321: Contemporary Topics in Psychology: Animal Behavior Research

In this course, graduate students delve into the multifaceted realm of animal behavior, with a particular focus on evolutionary and mechanistic perspectives. This course offers an exploration of comparative and integrative viewpoints essential to understanding animal behavior. Through hands-on experience at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, participants engage in naturalistic observation methodology, data collection, analysis, and presentation of scientific reports—both orally and in writing. This immersive approach allows students to conduct a behavioral study of an animal species of their choosing, providing practical insights into the complexities of animal behavior research.