Department of Conservation and Science
Internship/Externship Program

Intern Program
Intern Program Detailed Information
Internship Application
The aim of Off-Campus Study at the Knoxville Zoological Gardens is to introduce interested students to the activities of a zoological facility through hands-on experience. A variety of experiences can be gained through assisting our Zoo's personnel with the daily operational tasks in their areas. The operation of a modern zoological garden requires diverse, talented professionals, who are all concerned with conservation of endangered species, the education of the public, and research involved in the advancement of these two aims.

Student assignments include practical experience in a selected area, the keeping of a daily journal and work hours, attendance of at least three appropriate lectures and readings (topics available from the Intern Coordinator), participating in an intern-guided tour, and a detailed narrative and critique of your specific responsibilities. The responsibilities of the student will be established in consultation with the course instructor and Intern Coordinator.

This course will assist students in developing skills necessary for acquiring positions in this or comparable facilities. Application to the program, program experiences, and final review will be similar to those of zoo employees.

Extern Program
Extern Program Detailed Information
The aim of the Externship program at the Knoxville Zoological Gardens is to introduce interested individuals to the activities of a zoological facility through hands-on experience. Those individuals that qualify are either in an out-of-state undergraduate program or have only recently graduated (must have graduated in the last 2 years). A variety of experiences can be gained through assisting our Zoo's personnel with the daily operational tasks in their areas. The operation of a modern zoological garden requires diverse, talented professionals, who are all concerned with conservation of endangered species, the education of the public, and research involved in the advancement of these two aims.

The externship is unique in that it allows time for experience in more than one area (up to 3, depending on availability). Assignments include practical experience in selected areas, the keeping of a daily journal and work hours, reading assigned articles, attendance of at least three appropriate lectures and readings (topics available from the Intern Coordinator), participating in a guided tour, and a detailed narrative and critique of your specific responsibilities.

This program will assist participants in developing skills necessary for acquiring positions in this or comparable facilities. Application to the program, program experiences, and final review will be similar to those of zoo employees.

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