Zoology & Wildlife Sciences Study Abroad Programs in Kenya

Immerse yourself in Kenya’s diverse ecosystems while exploring the role of wildlife health and medicine in conservation. Traveling from the Amboseli ecosystem to primate habitats near Nairobi to the Maasai Mara Reserve, you will study how disease, human–wildlife conflict, and environmental pressures affect elephants, lions, cheetahs, raptors, and other threatened species. Through lectures, field excursions, and discussions with experts, you will gain insight into the practices of wildlife health management and the ecological, social, and medical dimensions that influence conservation outcomes. By the end of the program, you will have a deeper understanding of how wildlife health connects to the broader future of conservation in Kenya.

The South Rift Valley of Kenya, stretching from the Maasai Mara National Reserve through Amboseli National Park, is one of the most spectacular wildlife areas on the planet. Earth Expeditions has partnered with the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden and the African Conservation Centre to advance community-based conservation in this dynamic landscape. This effort builds on the decades-long research of Dr. David Western, former head of the Kenya Wildlife Service, and the centuries-long research of the Maasai pastoralists, who have long co-existed with wildlife in an open grassland ecosystem populated by elephants, lions, giraffes, zebra, wildebeests, and a remarkable diversity of other species. With the rise of nontraditional lifestyles, private ranches, and fenced lands that prevent needed wildlife migrations, communities of the South Rift have recognized the need to understand the impact of these changes and work together for a better future. Before and following the field experience in Kenya, students will complete coursework via Dragonfly Workshops' Web-Based Learning Community as they apply these experiences to their home institutions.

Journey to Kenya to meet the last two Northern white rhinos and learn about pioneering breeding efforts to save the species; discover wildlife on safari game drives; and explore the Sweetwaters Chimp Sanctuary founded by Dr. Jane Goodall, David Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Centre, and more! This program is perfect for people who want an all-inclusive Kenyan experience that is fully planned for them, but who also want to spend lots of time learning about conservation and enjoying wildlife safari drives. Help support an amazing rhino conservation effort while getting an understanding of all it takes to protect and preserve these animals.

Are you dreaming of leading your own safaris one day, sharing your knowledge of Africa’s remarkable flora and fauna with others? The Kenya Safari Guide course brings you one step closer to that goal. Over 28 immersive days, you'll master the essential skills needed to thrive in Africa's wilderness. Through a blend of theoretical and practical lessons, you’ll explore Kenya’s rich natural landscapes, including the iconic African savanna. Set in the stunning Mara training center in the heart of the famous Masai Mara, the course is led by experienced instructors with years of expertise. You'll dive deep into animal behavior and gain an understanding of the geological, ecological, and meteorological aspects of the local environment. Learning how to plan and guide safaris is a core component, along with mastering the art of tracking animal footprints and reading signs of wildlife movement—skills you’ll put to use during extended walks and jeep excursions. Each day offers the chance to encounter majestic lions, elephants, birds, and countless other wild creatures, giving you a front-row seat to Africa’s unparalleled beauty.