New online program at UNE will teach humans about animal behavior

Aerial view of college campus in Biddeford

Courtesy / University of New England The University of New England has campuses in Biddeford, shown here, and Portland, as well as overseas in Tangier, Morocco.

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By Alexis Wells

The University of New England is expanding its offerings to include online coursework and certification in animal behavior.

The school says the six-week course will explore how animals communicate, interact and adapt to their environments. It is designed for animal enthusiasts, pet owners and aspiring animal-health professionals.

“We will dive into the captivating world of pet body language and beyond, transforming your interactions with animals into deeper, more rewarding experiences," said instructor and course developer Christine Calder.

The curriculum includes foundational concepts, developmental influences, behavioral abnormalities, learning theories, species-specific considerations and career opportunities within the field.

The online certification program builds upon UNE’s existing bachelor of science degree program in animal behavior, which includes wildlife ecology, psychology and neuroscience. It prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine, animal rehabilitation, animal-assisted therapy and wildlife conservation.

UNE includes the state’s only medical college and only dental college and offers a variety of other health care degree programs. The university has more than 6,500 students, including 2,300 on-campus undergraduates, 1,600 on-campus graduate students and 2,600 online students.

UNE was ranked No. 6 among Maine’s largest colleges and universities in the 2024 Mainebiz Book of Lists, based on full-time undergraduate enrollment as of fall 2023.