FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 6, 2005

CONTACT: Steve Dolan
(619) 594-5664
sdolan@mail.sdsu.edu

SAN DIEGO, Thursday, January 6, 2005 - San Diego State University's College of Extended Studies (CES) is offering two courses during the spring semester where students experience an overnight stay at SeaWorld and get to participate in caring for the animals.

The Marine Animal Husbandry and Training class is Friday-Saturday, Feb. 4-5, and the Biology of Whales takes place Friday-Saturday, Feb. 25-26. Both classes are from 2-10 pm Friday and 6:30 am-2:30 pm Saturday, with participants allowed to stay the remainder of each Saturday at SeaWorld.

Each class offers students the chance to meet trainers, animal specialists, lab technologists, and other staff during their time at SeaWorld.

"This course gives students the opportunity to get up close with marine animals," said Judith Coats, manager of the SeaWorld Education Department. "We will get up early Saturday with the animal care staff preparing for park opening. Students will become an integral part of caring for animals at SeaWorld. This course goes beyond observation, it's interactive participation."

In the Marine Animal Husbandry and Training class, students will help the trainers feed the dolphins, seals, and sea lions Saturday morning. The course covers basic concepts in biology and modern scientific methods in veterinary care, behavioral enrichment, genetics, biological rhythms, and microbiology which lead to successful marine animal display and breeding programs.

Students will gain insight into the work done by aquarists, aviculturists, and animal care specialists.

The Biology of Whales course also offers students the chance to help with food preparation and feeding of the animals on Saturday morning. Students will discover the unique biology and natural history of these incredible creatures as they go below the surface, above the waves, and beyond expectations during this opportunity to learn much more about several different species and meet experts in charge of their care.

Participants get to find out how whales are trained for veterinary procedures including physical measurements, blood samples, and dental exams. Furthermore, students will learn about the most endangered species of whales and what is being done to help protect them from extinction. Discussion topics will include diving physiology, sound production, and predator/prey relationships.

"This class is typical of the CES style," said Dr. William E. Byxbee, dean of CES. "There is no way to really understand the complexity of the biology of sea mammals without getting a little wet, a little cold and very tired. I can guarantee you that these lucky students will truly come away with a unique learning experience!"

Fees are $270 for each class. One unit of optional credit is available for an additional $60.

For more information or to register, call (619) 594-2517 or visit So www.NeverStopLearning.net.

SDSU's College of Extended Studies offers a wide variety of lifelong learning classes, seminars, and certificate programs. Career advancement courses are offered in many areas of management, leadership, and quality improvement while self-enrichment courses range from astronomy to web design. Additionally, the College offers over 30 certificate programs, online courses, and many other learning opportunities. To register or for more information, call (619) 594-5152 or log on to www.NeverStopLearning.net.