Certificate Program Requirements
Please note that after a review of strategic priorities and evolving member needs, the Certificate Program has been discontinued. As a result, we will no longer be accepting new applicants to the program.
Current enrollees may continue to submit their materials to certificate@aza.org for credit.
Individuals may still look to our Learning Partners as a high-quality resource for career development opportunities. Anyone may take advantage of this resource; participation in the Certificate Program is not required.
Current Enrollees Qualifications
You must be an AZA member in good standing at the Professional Affiliate level or higher. Membership must be maintained for the duration of enrollment in the program. Credits must be accumulated at the rate of a minimum of one qualifying unit (see list below) every twelve months. If you do not earn at least one credit unit each year, your enrollment may be listed as Inactive and discharged from the program.
Electives
Certificate Elective Units Guide
.5 units - Less than 2-hour web-based training
1 unit - 2-4 hour web-based training; Poster or session presentation at AZA or Learning Partner Conference*
2 units - 2+ to 4 hour in-person workshop or seminar
3 units - full day workshop or seminar
4 units - 2 day workshop or course
5 units - 3 day workshop or course
6 units - 4 day workshop or course
8 units - 5 day workshop or course*
*The 16 elective units must include a minimum of three training offerings. If two 8-unit electives are approved, an additional elective must be taken to complete the certificate.
Please note: Electives are not independently evaluated by AZA. Awarding of a certificate recognizes successful completion of the core courses and 16 units of electives and does not guarantee particular competencies or certifications. Electives are subject to change.
Retroactive Credit
Retroactive credit will be awarded for AZA courses and select high-unit Learning Partner electives completed within the last three years. Enrollment participants will have three months after completing a training opportunity to request credit.
Concentration Areas
Each concentration focuses on a different area of the zoo and aquarium profession. Certificate Program concentrations include:
Active Concentrations
Questions? Contact AZA's Certificate Program at certificate@AZA.org or call 301-562-0777 ext. 240