Over the past 20 years Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) has provided training opportunities at Brookfield Zoo for more than 220 veterinary students in the field of Zoological and Aquatic Animal Medicine. These students spend 6-8 week externships working side by side with our outstanding veterinary team helping care for the zoo’s animals collection comprised of over 250 different species. In doing so, students are exposed to new knowledge related to anatomy, medicine, anesthesia, nutrition and so much more.
 

Additionally, since 2005, Brookfield Zoo has provided post-doctoral residency training to veterinarians specializing in Zoological Medicine.  This unique and highly sought after program is only one out of 21 globally that meet the criteria for the American College of Zoological Medicine training programs. Residents spend three years in the program which also includes time spend at the University of Illinois and Shedd Aquarium, participating in clinical training, research and education culminating in board certification.
 

Many of these previous students and residents are now leaders in the field, contributing to conservation, education and research around the world.