The Master in Exotic, Wild and Zoo Animals is an advanced course, providing attendees with a thorough, up-to-date and multidisciplinary preparation on zoological medicine and surgery. 

The course delves on clinical anatomy, physiology and pathology of the main taxonomic categories, providing solid fundamentals to take on the diagnostic and treatment challenges concerning these species. 

Special attention is paid to clinical exam methods, diagnosis formulation and treatment planning, by integrating the latest technologies available. It explains and applies cutting-edge diagnostics, and covers also mini-invasive procedures, with a focus on specific anaesthesiologic protocols and on post-surgery pain management, according to the different physiology.

The Master in Exotic, Wild and Zoo Animals is divided in five modules, each one dedicated to an animal group: amphibian, reptiles, birds, exotic mammals and aquatic species. 

Every session is a combination of lectures, discussion of real clinical cases, and wet labs, to allow the attendees to apply the knowledge acquired directly, in simulated and realistic contexts.

The faculty comprises national and international experts in zoological medicine, and attendees will have the chance to confront themselves with the field’s best practices and develop a clinical approach based on scientific evidence, professional ethics and animal welfare.

The Master in Exotic, Wild and Zoo Animals is addressed to Veterinarians who wish to acquire specialized competences in the healthcare management of exotic and wild animals, and animals kept in controlled environments. It is intended for working professionals, and freelancers in particular, who wish to know more and upgrade their zoological knowledge. The course’s purpose is not opening new job opportunities, but rather perfecting existing ones, and strengthening the clinical and decision-making skills of attendees. At the end of the Master, professionals will become more proficient in diagnosing and managing the pathologies affecting different animal species, including non-conventional ones. The multidisciplinary approach and use of cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments will help them identify the pathological conditions more quickly, and select the best treatment, to improve the quality of the clinical intervention and the welfare of the animals cured.

The Master in Exotic, Wild and Zoo Animals provides specific training on the following topics:

Module 1 – PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS, ETHICS AND COMMUNICATION

The module provides an introduction on the anatomy of non-conventional animal species. Through lectures and hands-on workshops, attendees will learn the morphological and functional fundamentals of these species, with a particular focus on their anatomical peculiarities. In addition, this module covers the ethical and communication aspects with stakeholders.

Module 2 – VETERINARY PATHOLOGY

The module delves into the main pathologies affecting non-conventional animals. Through a multidisciplinary approach, attendees will explore the causes, mechanisms and clinical onsets of the diseases, with particular focus on ecological, diagnostic and treatment aspects.

Module 3 – MEDICINE AND SURGERY

This module focuses on the diagnostic, treatment and surgical aspects concerning non-conventional animals. Attendees will explore the most common pathologies, the clinical management techniques, and the specific surgery protocols for those species. Particular attention is paid to animal welfare, captivity management, and the challenges related to wild animal preservation. The module also covers specific clinical cases, by highlighting the critical diagnostic aspects and the treatment options available.

The general ranking of merit for the academic year 2025/26 will be published on the Italian page of this Master according to the timing provided in the Call.

Information

Health, environment and territory
02/10/2026
70%
20
50
€ 4.022,50
€ 2.000,00
Find the admission titles in the selection notice 25/26.
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FAQ

The Master is addressed only to Veterinarians already qualified to practice, and interested in updating or upgrading their knowledge about exotic, wild and zoo animal medicine and surgery. It is especially suited to freelancers, or professionals working in veterinary clinics or wild animals facilities.

Yes, the course blends lectures and hands-on sessions, including wet labs and discussion of real-life clinical cases. With them, the attendees will acquire operational competences in how to use the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques, such as endoscopy, mini-invasive surgery and advanced imaging.

Attendees will acquire advanced diagnostic and treatment skills, concerning the main pathologies affecting reptiles, birds, amphibians, exotic mammals and water species. The Master improves the clinical approach, the interpretation of pathological signs, and the choice of the best treatment for each species.