About Zoology

Zoology is a branch of biology that refers to the study of animals. It specialises in all elements that play a role in the survival and wellbeing of animals. Zoologists study animals in their natural habitats as well as man-made environments. Zoologists observe and experiment with animal settings to learn about how animals behave, reproduce, conserve and grow.

　　Since there is a lot to be learned about the existence of animals on earth, this branch of science is further divided into more branches. Below is a brief description of some of them:

　　Zootomy: Study of the anatomy of animals

　　Evolution Environment: Study of animal origin and their adaptability to the environment

　　Ethology: Study of animal behaviour and how it affects their evolution

　　Zoogeography: Study of geographical distributions of animals

　　

Is Zoology Right for Me?

If you are intrigued by animals, zoology is a great chance to pursue your passion as a professional education and build your career in zoology. Irrespective of what zoology program you enrol in, you’ll be immersed in the exciting coursework and practical research. All programs are designed in a way to help you develop the desired skills and credentials. If you like working with animals and enjoy research work, then this field would suit you well!

　　

Zoology Study Options and Costs

　　There are a variety of options available for students who are interested in pursuing their education in zoology. This is a science-based subject and therefore aspirants must have a strong background in sciences. They should have previously studied biology and chemistry as their majors. Conversely, many universities also happily take students from other science disciplines including psychology, physiology and statistics. An undergraduate degree in Zoology is three to four years long, based on the country which you study in, while a master’s program typically takes two years. Further certifications have different criteria based on the issuing authority. In the US, there are 121 colleges and universities that offer a zoology program. And the average tuition fee for zoology degree is $27,270 for foreign students. Additionally, if you go for a master’s program, it can cost upwards of $38,100 per year.

　　

Future Outlook

According to experts, the rapidly growing human population is creating threats that endanger wildlife. Hence, the need for zoologists and wildlife biologists is also increasing rapidly. In order to understand the behaviours and habitats of animals, you need to specialise in wildlife research and management. This is why a zoology degree is highly prized, especially by governments looking to protect their ecological habitats. As soon as you pass out as a graduate, there are an increasing number of career options available to you in both public and private domains.

　　

Career Pathways for Zoology graduates

　　

Animal Scientists

　　Since animal scientists study nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and growth of animals, most of their work is focused on enhancing the safety and efficiency of agricultural practices. They devise new methods and techniques to improve domestic animal health. They also provide consultation services to farmers about how to improve animal yield like milk, eggs and meat. The median annual salary of an animal scientist is $60,760.

　　

Ecologists

　　As it refers to the study of how the environment influences animals, a lot of the ecologist works take place in-field. They carefully observe and analyse the relationship of living things with their environment. If you opt to go for it, there are job opportunities in the government sectors, museums, zoos, environmental organisations and aquariums. Ecologists are one of the high-paying careers in zoology with an average annual pay of $55,000.

　　

Veterinarians

　　Veterinarians are health care providers for animals. They work to improve the health of animals just as medical doctors do for humans. Diagnosis, treatments, and research of medical conditions of animals, all of this comes under the head of this department. They work in pet hospitals or private clinics. The median annual salary of a veterinarian is $88,490.