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A zoology degree program allows students to work in the fields
of research and in-depth study of animal biology and wildlife.
Many zoology colleges are extensions of a life science program
and college, and allow students to earn a comprehensive zoology
education with both hands-on experience working in a lab
setting, along with classroom instruction. Students learn how to
apply the scientific method and conduct research in a diverse
range of subjects such as wildlife management, environmental
study, veterinary training, and animal biological sciences.
Principles of evolutionary biology, embryonic development, and
ecosystems are other areas of study, giving students a chance to
gain a well-rounded perspective in the zoological sciences.
Zoology degree programs are commonly found in the science and veterinary
departments of colleges and universities, but are also available at a variety of
zoology colleges. Here, students have an opportunity to specialize in a
particular field of research and supplement their studies with a range of
programs and science-based courses.
What is Zoology?
Zoology is the
study of animal biology and environmental study, with opportunities for lifelong
research and application in many different fields. A zoology education can be
applied to a variety of organizations and work environments including medical
research, government programs, public policy for environmental awareness, and
conservation management. Zoologists and wildlife biologists are involved with
research and data collection after experiments, as well as the study of animal
origins, genetics, diseases, and behaviors of animals. Common pursuits and
specializations of zoology degrees include:
- Animal
biology
- Cell
biology
- Animal
behavior
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Neurosciences
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Evolutionary biology
- Population
biology
- Ecology
- Embryonic
development
Zoology Careers
A zoology
education can lead to a variety of career paths and research opportunities in
the field of natural sciences and animal studies, and many zoologists do work in
environments other than zoos and animal clinics. The increased demand for
well-trained professionals in the field of environmental and ecological studies
offers more opportunities for students interested in enjoying a rewarding career
in the field.
Attending zoology
college gives students an opportunity to explore a variety of disciplines and
narrow down their focus to one or two specializations. Students who are
interested in pursuing an advanced zoology degree may choose to continue studies
and research with a Ph.D program or extensive research; this can lead to
additional options for careers in the field such as environmental research,
agricultural lab work or medical research.
Careers in
zoology can lead to jobs in fields and positions such as:
- Working at
a zoo
- Veterinary
practice and medicine
- Forensic
science
- Medical
research
- Fisheries
and aquaculture
-
Conservation and ecological management
- Chemical
industry research
- Teaching
-
Manufacturing industry research
- Pest
control and agriculture
- Cell
biology and molecular research
- Embryonic
development in animals
- Research in
Parisitology
- Research in
Ornithology
Pursuing a
Zoology Degree
Zoology degree programs require students to have specific traits and
characteristics in order to pursue a successful career. The most successful
zoology college students are strong in:
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Critical thinking and independent investigation
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Communicating with team members, students, and faculty members
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Observation and data collection
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Working
in a lab environment for extended periods of time
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Reporting data and taking comprehensive notes during trials and experiments
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Formulating thesis and reports for review
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Presenting and communicating observations and research results
Zoology Education
Programs and Classes
Zoology degree programs and curriculum are designed to help students gain a
thorough understanding and experience in research methodology, direct
application of research, and narrow down the field choices to a specialization.
Many graduate and advanced zoology degree programs allow students to work in
attractive positions with academic, biomedical, and government organizations.
Classes within a zoology degree encompass a range of courses from biology,
chemistry, physics, and life sciences. Common programs available at a zoology
college include:
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General Chemistry
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Organic Chemistry
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Cells and molecules
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Plant Ecology
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Fundamental Genetics
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Fundamentals of Soil & Science
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Biology of Mammals
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Marine Ecosystem Management
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Environmental Geochemistry
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Marine Biology
Education
Requirements and Salary Information for Careers in Zoology
Zoology careers require at least a bachelor's degree in the life sciences,
wildlife conservation, or related field along with hands-on experience through
field research or an internship. Most zoology colleges and universities offer
programs that allow students an opportunity to complete a zoology degree in 4-5
years, and students may choose to specialize in a particular field after
completing the basic core science curriculum. Graduate degrees allow students to
conduct their own research, and these often lead to teaching or other zoology
education opportunities. Biology is the most important class for all zoology
students and requires in-depth study and understanding, along with extensive
research abilities and skills. While many schools are phasing out a formal
zoology or wildlife science program, zoology education opportunities are still
available with a Bachelor of Science in biology or natural science degree.
The average starting salary for a zoologist is $28,000 per year, with steady
increases to $36,000 to $49,000 after 5-10 years of work and experience in the
field. Related occupations for zoology careers include:
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Animal caretaking
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Wildlife biologists
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Animal trainers
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Animal breeders
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Veterinarian
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Lab technicians
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