🦁 A guide to U.S. universities that operate real, accredited zoos on campus

📘 Introduction

Some universities go far beyond traditional classrooms by operating fully functioning zoos right on campus. These facilities give students hands‑on experience with animal care, conservation, research, and public education. This article highlights real colleges with real zoos, along with details about their programs, campus environments, and surrounding cities.

1. Michigan State University – The MSU Museum and Herpetology Collections

📍 East Lansing, Michigan

Zoo / Animal Facility

While MSU does not run a full public zoo, it operates extensive live animal research and teaching facilities, including reptile and amphibian collections used for zoology and veterinary programs.

Why It’s Notable

• One of the top veterinary schools in the country
• Hands‑on wildlife, conservation, and animal science programs

City & Campus Vibe

East Lansing offers a classic Big Ten atmosphere with events at Spartan Stadium and a lively downtown near Grand River Avenue.

2. University of California, Davis – UC Davis Arboretum & Animal Science Facilities

📍 Davis, California

Zoo / Animal Facility

UC Davis operates multiple live‑animal teaching centers, including:

• The California Raptor Center
• The Animal Science Horse Barn
• The Beef, Swine, and Avian Facilities

Why It’s Notable

• One of the world’s top veterinary and animal science universities
• Students work directly with wildlife, livestock, and birds of prey

City & Campus Vibe

Davis is a bike‑friendly college town with a relaxed feel and a popular Downtown Davis restaurant district.

3. University of Florida – Lubee Bat Conservancy (UF‑affiliated)

📍 Gainesville, Florida

Zoo / Animal Facility

UF partners with the Lubee Bat Conservancy, a real conservation center housing fruit bats from around the world.

Why It’s Notable

• Students study conservation biology, zoology, and wildlife ecology
• UF also operates extensive animal research and teaching farms

City & Campus Vibe

Gainesville is known for its nature trails, Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, and a lively student scene around Midtown.

4. Moorpark College – America’s Teaching Zoo

📍 Moorpark, California

Zoo / Animal Facility

Moorpark College operates America’s Teaching Zoo, a fully functioning zoo with over 100 animals.

Why It’s Notable

• Home to the Exotic Animal Training and Management (EATM) program
• Students train animals, run shows, and manage zoo operations
• One of the only programs of its kind in the U.S.

City & Campus Vibe

Moorpark is a quiet Southern California suburb near Los Angeles, with beaches and hiking trails within driving distance.

5. Santa Fe College – Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo

📍 Gainesville, Florida

Zoo / Animal Facility

A fully accredited AZA‑certified zoo located directly on campus.

Why It’s Notable

• One of the only colleges in the U.S. with an AZA‑accredited zoo
• Students earn degrees in Zoo Animal Technology
• Hands‑on experience with mammals, birds, reptiles, and primates

City & Campus Vibe

Gainesville’s student‑friendly environment includes live music venues, parks, and the Depot Park entertainment area.

6. Oregon State University – Hatfield Marine Science Center (OSU‑affiliated)

📍 Newport, Oregon

Zoo / Animal Facility

OSU operates the Hatfield Marine Science Center, which includes public exhibits with live marine animals such as:

• Octopuses
• Tidepool species
• Fish and invertebrates

Why It’s Notable

• Marine biology, fisheries, and oceanography programs
• Students work directly with marine wildlife and research labs

City & Campus Vibe

Newport is a coastal town known for the Oregon Coast Aquarium, beaches, and the historic Yaquina Bay Lighthouse.

7. Brigham Young University – Bean Life Science Museum

📍 Provo, Utah

Zoo / Animal Facility

While not a zoo, BYU operates a major wildlife museum with:

• Live animal shows
• Conservation programs
• Extensive biological collections

Why It’s Notable

• Strong wildlife biology and conservation programs
• Educational outreach with live animal demonstrations

City & Campus Vibe

Provo offers mountain views, outdoor recreation, and a growing downtown near Center Street.

8. Texas A&M University – Wildlife Research & Teaching Facilities

📍 College Station, Texas

Zoo / Animal Facility

Texas A&M maintains multiple live‑animal teaching centers, including:

• The Wildlife Center
• The Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital
• The Schubot Center for Avian Health

Why It’s Notable

• One of the top veterinary schools in the U.S.
• Students work with exotic birds, wildlife, and domestic animals

City & Campus Vibe

College Station is known for Kyle Field, Aggie traditions, and a strong student community.

📚 Conclusion

While full public zoos on college campuses are rare, several U.S. institutions operate real, accredited animal facilities that function like small zoos or wildlife centers. These colleges offer unmatched hands‑on experience for students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, zoology, wildlife conservation, and animal care.