{"id":216727,"date":"2023-09-18T14:16:27","date_gmt":"2023-09-18T20:16:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.wpengine.com\/?page_id=216727"},"modified":"2026-02-16T10:15:10","modified_gmt":"2026-02-16T16:15:10","slug":"professional-development","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/education\/professional-development\/","title":{"rendered":"Professional Development"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\"><p>[vc_row][vc_column]<section class=\"page-navigation\">\n    <span id=\"dropdown\">Quick Links<\/span><ul><li><a class=\"page-navigation__item\" id=\"nav-aip\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/education\/professional-development\/#aip\">\n\n          Advanced Inquiry Program        \n          <\/li><\/a><li><a class=\"page-navigation__item\" id=\"nav-graduate\" target=\"_self\" href=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/education\/professional-development\/#graduate\">\n\n          Graduate Credit Courses        \n          <\/li><\/a><\/ul><\/section>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div id=\"aip\" class=\"anchor\"><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2>Advanced Inquiry Program<\/h2>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\">The\u00a0<span class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"Advanced Inquiry Program\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/advanced-inquiry-program\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" aria-label=\"Advanced Inquiry Program - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Advanced Inquiry Program<\/a><\/strong><\/span>\u00a0(AIP) is a one-of-a-kind, online master\u2019s degree program from Miami University (Oxford, OH) and Project Dragonfly, in partnership with the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden.\u00a0<span class=\"last-child even\">Created for working professionals, the AIP immerses students in collaborative inquiry and action as they champion change for the environment and their local community. Through web-based coursework from Miami and face-to-face experiential learning and field study at the Zoo, you will connect with classmates, Miami University faculty, Zoo experts, and community leaders locally, nationally, and globally.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/3&#8243;]<div data-aos=\"fade-up\" class=\"image-block themed\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/project-dragonfly-lockup-stacked-headshot.jpg\" alt=\"miami university project dragonfly logo\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 800px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 800\/600;\" \/><\/div><!-- .img-block --><a class=\"button\" data-aos=\"fade-up\" href=\"https:\/\/graduateschool.miamioh.edu\/register\/dragonfly?_ga=2.44531361.467696056.1714396715-1774447205.1713789265\" target=\"_blank\" role=\"button\" aria-label=\"\" title=\"\">I'm Interested!<\/a>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"tabbed-content themed\">\n      <div class=\"tabbed-content__toggles\" data-aos=\"fade-up\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"tab toggles\"><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item active\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-H1TveWOkQl\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-XWpuf13bva\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-Aa51vheid7\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-Zi1TJTu3AL\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-50f1o0D53T\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-en1s7n2A2b\"><\/span><\/div><div id=\"panel-H1TveWOkQl\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" style=\"display:block;\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a title=\"Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/about\/master-of-arts-in-teaching.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)<\/a> in Biological Science<\/li>\n<li><a title=\"Master of Arts (MA)\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/about\/master-of-arts-in-biology.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Master of Arts (MA)<\/a> in Biology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"odd\"><em class=\"first-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\">Miami University is<\/span><span class=\"last-child even\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/academic-affairs\/accreditation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">fully accredited<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/em><span class=\"last-child even\"><em class=\"first-child last-child odd\">by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p>Education programs for all ages foster a sense of wonder, encourage the sharing of knowledge, and advocate active involvement with (and on behalf of) wildlife and wild places. The Cincinnati Zoo actually co-founded Earth Expeditions and the Advanced Inquiry Program with Miami University. By being a Cincinnati Zoo student, you are a part of the founding family!<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/IMG_8364-2-1024x683-1.jpg\" width=\"711\" height=\"474\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 711px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 711\/474;\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-XWpuf13bva\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><a class=\"image-link\" href=\"http:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/AIP-EcOhio-Jerran-Orwig.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-191648 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/AIP-EcOhio-Jerran-Orwig-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"AIP graduate students looking at plants at Bowyer Farm.\" width=\"360\" height=\"240\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 360px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 360\/240;\" \/><\/a><a class=\"even\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/advanced-inquiry-program\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"AIP Master\u2019s - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">AIP Master\u2019s<\/span><\/a>\u00a0candidates use inquiry not only as a tool for integrated learning, but as a powerful agent for student achievement, public engagement in science, and ecological stewardship.\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\">The AIP is designed for students from a range of backgrounds and career stages. With professional and academic mentoring and self-designed Master Plans, students adapt their degree path to fit their interests in fields such as community-engaged conservation, inquiry-driven education, environmental justice, learning across K-12 and informal settings, animal care and welfare, green business innovation, climate change, urban ecology, human-nature relationships, environmental restoration, and public engagement in science.\u00a0<\/span>AIP students join a network of local and national leaders, working together to improve their professions, institutions, neighborhoods, and environments.<\/p>\n<p class=\"last-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Degree Conferred.<\/strong>\u00a0 Students can enroll in either a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in the biological sciences for formal K-12 teachers or a Master of Arts (M.A.) in biology for all other professionals. The M.A.T. does not confer a teaching license. Miami University is<\/span><a class=\"even\" title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/academic-affairs\/accreditation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">fully accredited<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\">by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-Aa51vheid7\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><a class=\"image-link\" href=\"http:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/IMG_0027-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-204080 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/IMG_0027-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"AIP graduate students observing the gorillas.\" width=\"360\" height=\"240\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 360px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 360\/240;\" \/><\/a>Students take a combination of\u00a0<strong class=\"first-child odd\">21 credit hours of Web+ Courses<\/strong>\u00a0(online with in-person Zoo experiences) and\u00a0<strong class=\"even\">14 credit hours of Core Courses<\/strong>\u00a0(online only) taken with Project Dragonfly master\u2019s students nationwide via web-based learning communities. All 35 hours include a web-based learning community and a Miami University instructor.\u00a0 Several courses also include experiential learning time on grounds at the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden or at sites across the Greater Cincinnati area.\u00a0 Periodic travel (~4 times a semester) to Cincinnati is expected and a required portion of the courses. Students complete a master\u2019s portfolio (our version of a master\u2019s thesis) throughout their time in the program based on an overarching theme or passion\/interest they want to apply their various course projects toward.\u00a0 AIP students in their 3rd year and in good standing are eligible to apply for an\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/earth-expeditions\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" aria-label=\"Earth Expeditions - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Earth Expeditions<\/a><\/span>\u00a0course to learn firsthand about community conservation efforts across the globe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"odd\">The fastest pace this degree can be completed is in 2.5 years, but students have up to 5 years (consecutively) to finish their coursework, so you can choose to go at a slower pace with lighter course loads per semester if needed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\">To see the general course of study,\u00a0<span class=\"first-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"click here\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/professional-development-courses\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" aria-label=\"To see the general course of study, click here ; for a Cincinnati Zoo-specific example, please\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-vglnk=\"\">click here<\/a><\/span>; for a Cincinnati Zoo-specific example, please\u00a0<span class=\"last-child even\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1LqoiPGZTfrZdQzXvr9zSVhEnTPrnxF12\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"; for a Cincinnati Zoo-specific example, please click here\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-vglnk=\"\">click here<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-Zi1TJTu3AL\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"even\">To support involvement by a broad range of educators and conservation professionals nationally, Miami University offers significantly reduced tuition for AIP web-based classes.\u00a0 The current cost for this Miami University master\u2019s degree is roughly 30% less than the cost of a Miami master\u2019s for an Ohio resident.\u00a0Dragonfly\u2018s many students who live outside Ohio realize an out-of-state savings of approximately 70%.<\/p>\n<p class=\"odd\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Miami University\/Project Dragonfly rates \u2013 Summer 2024 \u2013 Spring 2027 cycle<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Core Course<\/strong>\u00a0(online only) \u2013 $455 per credit hour<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Web+ Course<\/strong><span class=\"last-child even\">\u00a0(online + in-person Zoo time) \u2013 $580 per credit hour<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"odd\">For example, a 3-credit\u00a0<em class=\"first-child odd\">Conservation Science &amp; Community<\/em>\u00a0class (Core Course) would cost $1,365, while a 3-credit\u00a0<em class=\"even\">Animal Behavior &amp; Conservation<\/em>\u00a0class (Web+ Course) would cost $1,740. The rates shown reflect a 3-year tuition commitment from Miami University for the period from Summer 2024 to Spring 2027.\u00a0\u00a0<em class=\"last-child odd\">Costs are estimates and subject to change.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">For more information, please see\u00a0<a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/program-costs.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Project Dragonfly\u2019s AIP Costs page - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Project Dragonfly\u2019s Program Costs page<\/span><\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h5><\/h5>\n<h5 class=\"odd\">Offsetting Costs<\/h5>\n<p class=\"even\">With reduced fees as part of Miami University\u2019s support for this program, each AIP course is offered at a fraction of actual costs. Applicants to the program should check with their employer to see if professional development funds are available to further offset costs.\u00a0 A limited number of small scholarship funds (in the range of $250-$500, varying by year) are available to current AIP students.\u00a0 Scholarship descriptions and application information is distributed by email to all students in late spring of each year.<\/p>\n<p class=\"last-child odd\">If you have further questions about financial assistance (ex. federal loans, deferrals), please refer to\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/about\/helping-fund-your-degree.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Project Dragonfly\u2019s \u201cHelping Fund Your Degree\u201d page - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Project Dragonfly\u2019s \u201cHelping Fund Your Degree\u201d page<\/a><\/span>\u00a0for more.\u00a0 The Zoo does not handle student finances.<\/p>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-50f1o0D53T\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"even\"><a class=\"image-link\" href=\"http:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/AIPICC4-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-204081 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/AIPICC4-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"AIP graduate students studying pollinators at Bowyer Farm.\" width=\"360\" height=\"240\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 360px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 360\/240;\" \/><\/a>Who is Eligible?<\/h5>\n<p class=\"odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Bachelor\u2019s degree and undergraduate GPA of good standing<\/strong>. Enrollment is open to applicants with a bachelor\u2019s degree, regardless of academic major. For admission to Miami\u2019s Graduate School as a degree candidate, you must have earned a grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 (4.0 scale) at the institution awarding your bachelor\u2019s degree. Please visit the\u00a0<span class=\"last-child even\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/graduate-school\/admission-funding\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" aria-label=\"Miami University Graduate School\u2019s Admissions page - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Miami University Graduate School\u2019s Admissions page<\/a><\/span>\u00a0for more details.<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Reliable internet access.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>Because all courses are delivered primarily online, access to the internet is required.<\/p>\n<p class=\"odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">General university-level biology course<\/strong>. All M.A. in Biology and M.A.T. in Biological Sciences students are required to have completed (receiving a final grade of B- or better) one university-level general biology course or its equivalent prior to completion of their M.A.\/M.A.T. degree. Students admitted to the program who have not previously met this requirement through their undergraduate studies will need to complete such a course before they graduate. The Dragonfly Graduate Committee highly recommends that students complete this requirement within the first two years of the master\u2019s program. More information may be found in the\u00a0<span class=\"even\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"Biology Requirement FAQs\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/advanced-inquiry-program\/biology-requirement-faq-aip.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Biology Requirement FAQs<\/a>\u00a0<\/span>and on the\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" title=\"Biology through Inquiry webpage\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/about\/biology-through-inquiry.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Biology through Inquiry webpage<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n<h5 class=\"even\">Application Process<\/h5>\n<p class=\"odd\">Applications for the AIP go live every September for the following cohort year, with classes starting in May. Part of the preliminary\u00a0process includes filling out a\u00a0<span class=\"first-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/graduateschool.miamioh.edu\/register\/dragonfly\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"short interest form - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">short interest form<\/a><\/span>\u00a0which helps us gauge general interest in the program.\u00a0\u00a0<span class=\"even\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">A<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"last-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\">ll<\/span>\u00a0application materials are due to Miami University\u2019s Graduate\u00a0<span class=\"last-child even\">School<\/span> by February 15 <\/strong><\/span>of each year. <span data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\">The application period for 2025 has closed and will open for 2026 in early Fall.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"even\">Applicants will be notified about their recommendation for admission to the program by\u00a0<strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">April 15<\/strong>.\u00a0Your admittance into the program\u00a0is not final until you receive the official letter from the Graduate School of Miami University.<\/p>\n<p class=\"odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">NOTE to prospective applicants:<\/strong>\u00a0 Your very first course as an AIP student called\u00a0<i class=\"even\">Foundations of Inquiry<\/i>\u00a0includes a week-long session at the Zoo in early June.\u00a0\u00a0<strong class=\"last-child odd\">For the incoming 2026 cohort, FOI Zoo Week is set for June 1 &#8211; 5, 2026, and full attendance is required for all students.<\/strong>\u00a0This in-person week is an integral part of the program, so full attendance is expected and no make-up opportunities are given for missed days, regardless of the reason.<\/p>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-en1s7n2A2b\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"first-child odd\">Want to learn more?\u00a0 Sign up for a Virtual Info Session<\/h5>\n<p class=\"even\">Join a live, 45-minute info session and learn about the key elements of an AIP student experience with Miami University and the Zoo.\u00a0 There will be a presentation by the Zoo\u2019s AIP Manager followed by an open Q&amp;A session.\u00a0 Please have the most recent version of<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">\u00a0<a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/zoom.us\/download\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Zoom - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Zoom<\/a><\/span>\u00a0downloaded on your device to participate.\u00a0 Register by clicking the link below for your preferred date (all in EST time zone). We will record each session and email a copy to any registered attendees.<\/p>\n<p class=\"x_MsoNormal\">There are currently not info sessions scheduled.<\/p>\n<p>If you would like a recording of an info session, please email: <a href=\"mailto:Cassandra.lyon@cincinnatizoo.org\"><span data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\">Cassandra.lyon@cincinnatizoo.org <\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"spacer\" style=\"padding-bottom:60px;\"><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"accordions themed accordion-list\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"accordions__tab active\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\" style=\"display:block;\"><p>AIP students earn their master\u2019s degree from Miami University (Oxford, OH) through web-based courses taught by Miami instructors with the excitement of experiential learning in person at an AIP site like the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden. By providing invaluable community connections, expertise, and environmental leadership, AIP sites are at the heart of the AIP.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>At the heart of this program is making an environmental and social change in your community, whatever \u201ccommunity\u201d means to you (your neighborhood, school district, workplace, zoo, nature center, metropark, city, faith family, etc.).\u00a0 We encourage a lot of inquiry-based learning and our courses revolve around environmental topics and how to communicate and share those issues.\u00a0 In large part, students drive their own master\u2019s experience through projects they design, so what a student ends up focusing on depends on where they want to go.\u00a0 Students also develop specific content knowledge and skills in the realms of biodiversity threats and conservation, evolution, community engagement, inquiry-based education, science writing and publishing, and leadership, among many others.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\">The AIP consists of Course Courses (online) and Web+ Courses (online w\/Zoo time).\u00a0 All courses are delivered online by a Miami University instructor.\u00a0 Several courses also include experiential learning time on grounds at the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden, at other Zoo facilities, or at sites across the Greater Cincinnati area.\u00a0 Occasional travel to Cincinnati (~4 times a semester) is expected. We try to do most of our in-person Zoo components on Saturdays for those who work during the week or have to travel to Cincinnati.\u00a0 Usually, you only have \u201cZoo Days\u201d about 4 times spread out in a semester. None of the courses require you to travel to the main Oxford campus of Miami University.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>There are two Web+ Courses where the Saturday rhythm deviates:<\/li>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\"><i>Foundations of Inquiry<\/i>\u00a0\u2013 The very first Web+ course you take as a student includes a full M-F week at the Zoo (full 9 am to 4 pm days).\u00a0 It is a required, large piece of the experience and foundational to the program in general.<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\"><i>Barrows Conservation Lecture Series Seminar<\/i>\u00a0\u2013 A spring course that involves coming to the Zoo for 4 lectures typically on Wednesday evenings to hear from internationally-known conservationists.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>We do have many students in our program who do not live in Greater Cincinnati, coming from all over Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Tennessee, Virginia, and even places like Florida and Maine. \u00a0As long as you plan ahead and make the trek to Cincinnati for each course\u2019s in-person components (typically 4 times a semester), you can live practically anywhere.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>There isn\u2019t really a way to accelerate the time period for the degree.\u00a0 Usually, each semester students take at least 2 courses, and that\u2019s proven enough\/a lot for most, as it was designed to be done on a part-time basis knowing that most of the students in our non-traditional program are also juggling jobs, perhaps families, and other life commitments, etc.\u00a0 Plus, a really big element of the program is community engagement: collaborating with people in your circles or making new connections to tackle community-based work \u2013 and that relationship-building and project implementation takes time.\u00a0 Going too quickly through the program would counteract that goal, and that relationship-building process is also how some students end up with job opportunities.\u00a0 It may seem like a long time upfront, but students often reflect upon how quickly it goes!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>We typically accept only 20-25 students per cohort each year. Graduate students in our program come from a variety of backgrounds.\u00a0 We see formal and informal educators, stay-at-home parents, retail and food service employees, administrative assistants, financial consultants, retirees, health care workers, recent graduates from college, EPA specialists, nature center educators, animal care professionals, and more.\u00a0 It\u2019s great having variety in our cohorts, especially since at the end of the day, we all have an appreciation for conservation, the environment, and education.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>In addition to making numerous new contacts and friends, and diving into a world of environmental studies, two major themes come out of this program \u2013 leadership and community engagement.\u00a0 Throughout the various courses and assignments, students are asked to tackle issues and topics they\u2019re passionate about and are also asked to dream bigger and push themselves beyond their normal day-to-day routines.<\/li>\n<li>Through our Project Dragonfly family, students have gone on to receive grants, create brand new events or programs in their communities, collaborate with sanctuaries and preserves, take on leadership roles at work or promotions, write books, improve husbandry practices at zoos, etc. \u00a0This program creates opportunities for people to do and explore the things they\u2019ve always wanted to do.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>Possibly. \u00a0It depends on what field a student wants to get a Ph.D. in.\u00a0 Because this is a Miami Master of Arts degree program, if you are trying to go for a Ph.D. in a science field with a heavy research base like biology, chemistry, etc., it might be tougher to find a Ph.D. program that will accept an M.A.\/M.A.T. over an M.S.\u00a0 On the other hand, going into a Ph.Ed. or a Ph.D. in Environmental Studies, Sustainability Leadership, etc. would be more feasible. \u00a0If you have an advisor or Ph.D. program that you\u2019re interested in already, we recommend talking with them and seeing what their initial thoughts are. \u00a0In addition, because this is a non-traditional academic program, it might require educating the Ph.D. department\/university in question a bit more about what the AIP is about and helping them understand what we accomplish, coursework, philosophies, etc.\u00a0 Any Ph.D. program advisor is welcome to reach out to Project Dragonfly\u2019s leadership team at Miami University to inquire further.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>This and the other career-related questions below are ones we receive often. \u00a0As with most careers, it depends on the mixture of your relevant experience, academic background, and skills. \u00a0This experience would expose to you people, places, issues, projects, challenges, inspirations, and more that no other graduate program would.<\/li>\n<li>Being in this program would give you deeper background on related topics and will connect you to new contacts and opportunities (i.e. volunteering, possible part-time work, internships, etc.), but graduating from the program does not guarantee a job either. \u00a0It is\u00a0<i>up to you<\/i>\u00a0to make the most of any possibilities that come available and add relevant experience to your resume. \u00a0Ask yourself if this program material\/content would be interesting to you beyond solely looking for a career change: Would the time and effort be worth it regardless of what happens?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span class=\"s2\">Not with this degree alone<\/span>. Keeper positions require\u00a0<i>extensive\u00a0<\/i>experience in animal husbandry and animal science. These qualifications often include college degrees these days, but also heavily relies on hands-on, practical work experience in animal husbandry (at a zoo\/aquarium, farm, animal shelter, sanctuary, etc.) or veterinary medicine. Without this experience, there is simply no stand-alone degree that will get you a keeper position.<\/li>\n<li>The AIP will help build you up in terms of conservation content, leadership skills, and networking possibilities, but our courses\u00a0do not\u00a0focus on \u201chow to be a zookeeper\u201d or put you in any direct animal care scenarios.\u00a0 Those skills only really come from volunteer\/internships and work experiences or being at a teaching or trade school specifically for animal care (like the\u00a0<a title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sfcollege.edu\/zoo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"s3\">Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo<\/span><\/a>\u00a0in Florida).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>Potentially, but no guarantees.\u00a0 You\u2019ll definitely meet Zoo staff and learn about opportunities along the way, but jobs at the Zoo are hard to come by (especially full-time ones). Because it\u2019s an internationally-recognized Zoo and a center for wildlife conservation, job openings at the Zoo are promoted far and wide so that the very best candidate can be found. So, even though you may hear about a job opening as soon as it opens up because you are an AIP student, you\u2019ll be considered along with the rest of the candidates that apply.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><div class=\"accordions__tab\" role=\"tab\" data-aos=\"fade-up\">\n        <span class=\"accordions__tab-toggle tab-toggle\" role=\"button\" title=\"toggle tab\" aria-label=\"toggle tab\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n        <\/span>\n        <div class=\"accordions__tab-content tab-body\" role=\"tabpanel\"><p>Limited potential, but possible for the right candidate.\u00a0 The AIP master\u2019s journey does not include direct animal care or training with animals as a part of the degree. However, there are a variety of volunteer and internship positions available at the Zoo, and many of these could lead to opportunities to work more closely with our animal ambassadors.\u00a0 Learn more about becoming a\u00a0<span class=\"first-child odd\"><a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/support\/volunteer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Zoo Volunteer - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Zoo Volunteer<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n      <\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"line-spacer\" style=\"padding-top:20px; padding-bottom:60px;\"><hr><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div id=\"graduate\" class=\"anchor\"><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"even\" role=\"heading\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\" aria-level=\"3\">Graduate Credit Courses<\/h2>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"first-child odd\" role=\"heading\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\" aria-level=\"3\"><strong>Earn\u00a0<a class=\"first-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/professional-development-courses\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"standalone graduate credit - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">standalone graduate credit<\/a>\u00a0through Miami University while spending time at the Zoo!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;]<div data-aos=\"fade-up\" class=\"image-block themed\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/aip21.jpg\" alt=\"\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" class=\"lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 900px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 900\/600;\" \/><\/div><!-- .img-block -->[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Combine primarily web-based graduate coursework through Miami University (Oxford, OH) with unique experiences at the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden, connecting you to a broad network of like-minded individuals and community leaders. With Project Dragonfly, we proudly bring you exciting, inquiry-driven topics ranging from animal behavior and plants in society to the complex human dimensions of conservation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\">This suite of \u201cWeb+\u201d courses merge the academic expertise of Miami University instructors with the world-class wildlife conservation and botany expertise of the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden.\u00a0 Classes offer participants the opportunity to develop inquiry-based learning skills and provide them with exciting course content in a variety of subject areas.<\/p>\n<p class=\"odd\"><em class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\">Miami University is<\/span><a class=\"even\" title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/academic-affairs\/accreditation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">fully accredited<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\">by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"tabbed-content themed\">\n      <div class=\"tabbed-content__toggles\" data-aos=\"fade-up\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"tab toggles\"><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item active\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-tobHuLYqnw\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-p0c94Jv687\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-mOdMQJYSuN\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-ZkufnwBetN\"><\/span><span id=\"\" class=\"tabbed-content__toggles-item\" role=\"tab\" aria-controls=\"panel-eb0B7HUK2k\"><\/span><\/div><div id=\"panel-tobHuLYqnw\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" style=\"display:block;\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<h5>What is the nature of these AIP courses and their associated projects?<\/h5>\n<p>At the heart of this program is making an environmental and social change in your community, whatever \u201ccommunity\u201d means to you (your neighborhood, school district, workplace, zoo, nature center, metropark, city, faith family, etc.).\u00a0 We encourage a lot of inquiry-based learning and our courses revolve around environmental topics and how to communicate and share those issues.\u00a0 In large part, students drive their own master\u2019s experience through projects they design, so what a student ends up focusing on depends on where he or she wants to go.\u00a0 Students also develop specific content knowledge and skills in the realms of biodiversity threats and conservation, evolution, community engagement, inquiry-based education, science writing and publishing, and leadership, among many others.<\/p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-p0c94Jv687\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<h6 class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Summer (mid May \u2013 early Aug) \u2013\u00a0<em class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Register March 1 \u2013 30<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<ul class=\"even\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Environmental Stewardship: Issues in Cincinnati Conservation \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>This course focuses on conservation issues currently facing the Cincinnati Tri-State area, and will allow participants to design their own conservation behavior-focused \u201cLife Change\u201d projects. Students will also get the opportunity to interact with professionals in the sustainability and conservation realm.\u00a0\u00a0<em class=\"last-child even\">3 graduate credits \u2013 online course &amp; four Saturdays in-person<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h6 class=\"odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Fall (late Aug \u2013 early Dec) \u2013\u00a0<em class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Register June 1 \u2013 30<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<ul class=\"even\">\n<li class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Plants &amp; People \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Students examine the deep human connection to plants, the importance of nature and natural places to child development, and plant ecology &amp; conservation \u2013 all while surrounded by thousands of species of plants. \u00a0Students will design and execute a related Inquiry Action Project (IAP) throughout the semester.\u00a0<em class=\"last-child even\">3 graduate credits \u2013 online course &amp; four Saturdays in-person<\/em><\/li>\n<li class=\"even\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Animal Behavior &amp; Conservation \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>This course provides students with a wealth of content on animal behavior and conservation while giving them the opportunity to study a diversity of animal species. \u00a0Students will design and execute a related Inquiry Action Project (IAP) throughout the semester.\u00a0<em class=\"last-child even\">3 graduate credits \u2013 online course &amp; four Saturdays in-person<\/em><\/li>\n<li class=\"last-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Human Dimensions of Conservation <\/strong>\u2013\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Conserving wildlife is a complex endeavor that requires the integration of both social and natural sciences. Students consider how current conservation issues can be addressed through an understanding of human thought and action.\u00a0<\/span>Students will design and execute a related Inquiry Action Project (IAP) throughout the semester.\u00a0<em class=\"last-child even\">3 graduate credits \u2013 online course &amp; four Saturdays in-person<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h6 class=\"odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Spring (late Jan \u2013 early May) \u2013\u00a0<em class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Register November 1 \u2013 30<\/em><\/strong><\/h6>\n<ul class=\"last-child even\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Barrows Conservation Lecture Seminar \u2013\u00a0<\/strong>The spring graduate seminar centers around the Zoo\u2019s popular Barrows Conservation Lecture Series. This course gives you the chance to learn about global conservation efforts and attend 4 weekday evening lectures led by world-famous researchers, conservationists, explorers, and teachers. \u00a0Students will create a Curiosity Synthesis project to dive into speaker topics and related themes.\u00a0 2<em class=\"last-child even\">\u00a0graduate credits \u2013 online course and four weekday evenings in-person<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-mOdMQJYSuN\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Registration is a multi-step process<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"even\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Non-matriculated students (those not seeking a full master\u2019s degree) must first apply to Miami\u2019s Graduate School for \u201c<a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/professional-development-courses\/continuing-graduate-status-how-to-apply.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Continuing Graduate Status - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">Continuing Graduate Status<\/a>\u201d (CGS) admission.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ol class=\"odd\" start=\"2\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\">The Graduate School will review the application and, upon approval, will send the applicant a letter of CGS admission. Please note that CGS admission does not confer or imply admission to the AIP; this approval simply allows the student to enroll in graduate-level courses without pursuing a graduate degree.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ol class=\"even\" start=\"3\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\">After\u00a0<a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/professional-development-courses\/continuing-graduate-status-how-to-apply.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"completing the steps shared by Miami - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">completing the steps shared by Miami<\/a>, further information will be sent to you, including a link to the CGS registration form. All steps must be completed to alert us of your application and to create a student record with the university.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Please note that space in courses is limited and closed once they reach capacity. Your placement is not confirmed until you have completed Miami CGS admission and course-specific registrations.<\/p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-ZkufnwBetN\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"first-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\">Miami University is<\/span><a class=\"even\" title=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/academic-affairs\/accreditation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0<span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">fully accredited<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<span class=\"last-child odd\">by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>To support involvement by a broad range of educators and conservation professionals nationally, Miami University offers significantly reduced tuition for AIP web-based classes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">Miami University\/Project Dragonfly Summer 2024 \u2013 Spring 2027 rates<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"odd\">\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child odd\">Web+ Course<\/strong><span class=\"last-child even\"> (online + in-person Zoo time) \u2013 $580 per credit hour<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For example, a 3-credit Animal Behavior &amp; Conservation class (Web+ Course) would cost $1,740. The rates shown reflect a 3-year tuition commitment from Miami University for the period from Summer 2024 to Spring 2027.\u00a0 <em>Costs are estimates and subject to change<\/em>. For information, please see <a title=\"Project Dragonfly\u2019s AIP Costs\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/program-costs.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Project Dragonfly\u2019s Program Costs<\/a> page.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\"><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div><div id=\"panel-eb0B7HUK2k\" class=\"tabbed-content__tab\" role=\"tabpanel\"><\/p>\n<p class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">For more information, please\u00a0<a class=\"first-child last-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/miamioh.edu\/cas\/graduate-studies\/project-dragonfly\/frequently-asked-questions.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"see Project Dragonfly\u2019s FAQs - opens in new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\">see Project Dragonfly\u2019s FAQs<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"last-child even\">\n<li class=\"first-child odd\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">What is the nature of these courses and their associated projects<br \/>\n<\/strong>At the heart of this program is making an environmental and social change in your community, whatever \u201ccommunity\u201d means to you.\u00a0 With experts onsite at the Zoo and Miami University instructors on the web, these graduate courses enable students to interact with peers, program alumni, and community leaders and explore new frontiers in community-engaged learning. In addition to the face-to-face experiences at the Zoo, participants also engage weekly online to discuss assignments, course readings, and semester-long research projects. We encourage a lot of inquiry-based learning and our courses revolve around environmental topics and how to communicate and share those issues.<\/li>\n<li class=\"first-child last-child odd even\"><strong class=\"first-child last-child odd\">I have a full-time job and\/or a family and other life commitments I\u2019m responsible for. \u00a0Is it still possible to take a graduate course concurrently?<br \/>\n<\/strong>These primarily web-based courses were designed to be accomplished at a part-time pace for working or busy individuals, and many of our AIP master\u2019s students and CGS students successfully complete courses while juggling all of the above as well.\u00a0 It is important to note, as with all graduate credit endeavors, that it will definitely be a significant commitment that will require your time and attention, so take stock of your availability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\n<\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column]<div class=\"spacer\" style=\"padding-bottom:40px;\"><\/div>[\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h3>Contact Us<\/h3>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<p class=\"even\"><strong><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">At Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"last-child odd\">\n<li class=\"first-child odd\">Cassi Lyon, Graduate Program Manager, Conservation Impact<\/li>\n<li class=\"even\"><a href=\"mailto:cassandra.lyon@cincinnatizoo.org\">cassandra.lyon@cincinnatizoo.org<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"last-child odd\">513-487-3347<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=&#8221;1\/2&#8243;][vc_column_text]<strong><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">At Miami University<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul class=\"odd last-child\">\n<li class=\"first-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child odd\">Connie Malone,\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"last-child even\"><a class=\"last-child even first-child odd\" href=\"https:\/\/projectdragonfly.org\/\" data-uw-rm-brl=\"false\">Project Dragonfly, Department of Biology<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"even\"><a href=\"mailto:AIP_Masters@MiamiOH.edu\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">AIP_Masters@MiamiOH.edu<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"last-child odd\"><span class=\"first-child last-child odd\">513-529-5103<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243;][vc_column_text] Advanced Inquiry Program [\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] The\u00a0Advanced Inquiry Program\u00a0(AIP) is a one-of-a-kind, online master\u2019s degree program from Miami University (Oxford, OH) and Project Dragonfly, in partnership with the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; Botanical Garden.\u00a0Created for working professionals, the AIP immerses students in collaborative inquiry and action as they champion change for the environment and their local [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":240166,"parent":40,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-216727","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Professional Development | Cincinnati Zoo<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/cincinnatizoo.org\/education\/professional-development\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Professional Development | Cincinnati Zoo\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"[vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=&#8221;2\/3&#8243;][vc_column_text] Advanced Inquiry Program [\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] The\u00a0Advanced Inquiry Program\u00a0(AIP) is a one-of-a-kind, online master\u2019s degree program from Miami University (Oxford, OH) and Project Dragonfly, in partnership with the Cincinnati Zoo &amp; 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