Zoology Major
Zoology is the study of animals, their biology, behavior, and classification. It is a major within Natural Sciences & Math.
Zoology is the scientific study of animals—their bodies, how they work, the way they behave, and how they are classified and related to one another. Students in this major learn to observe and analyze animal life across different environments, from microscopic organisms to large mammals. The field asks questions like how animals adapt to their surroundings, how they interact with each other and their ecosystems, and what explains similarities and differences among species. Students develop skills in research methods, laboratory work, and field observation, learning to think critically about the living world.
Students drawn to zoology typically have curiosity about the natural world and enjoy both hands-on investigation and scientific reasoning. The major usually begins with broad foundational courses in biology and chemistry, giving students the basics of how living systems function. As students progress, they move toward more specialized study—focusing on particular animal groups, behaviors, or ecological relationships—and gain experience through laboratory work and field studies. This progression helps students develop both depth of knowledge in areas that interest them and practical skills in research and analysis.
Typical coursework
Course requirements vary by school, but a Zoology program commonly includes topics such as:
- Animal physiology
- Comparative anatomy
- Animal behavior
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Evolution
Most programs also include general-education requirements and, in many fields, a capstone project, internship, or research experience.
Degree levels
Zoology is commonly offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's
- Master's
- Doctoral
Availability differs by institution, and program names can vary (for example, a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science track).
Common career directions
Graduates with a Zoology background pursue a range of paths. Some roles related to this field of study include:
- Zoologist
- Wildlife technician
- Research assistant
- Museum specialist
Many careers require additional steps beyond the major — such as a graduate degree, a license, or a certification — and many graduates work in fields unrelated to their major. What you study is one factor among many in where your career goes.
General career information is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career paths vary widely by person, school, and region; this is not a list of guaranteed jobs or earnings.
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Find degree programs →Frequently asked questions
What is a Zoology major?
Zoology is the study of animals, their biology, behavior, and classification. It is part of natural sciences & math, and combines foundational coursework with more focused study as you advance.
What courses do Zoology majors take?
Coursework varies by school, but commonly includes topics such as animal physiology, comparative anatomy, animal behavior, ecology, and others, plus general-education requirements.
What can you do with a Zoology major?
Graduates pursue a range of paths, including roles such as zoologist, wildlife technician, research assistant. Many roles require additional steps such as a graduate degree, license, or certification. This is general information, not a guarantee of any job or salary.
What degree levels is Zoology offered at?
It is commonly offered at the bachelor's, master's, doctoral level, though availability varies by institution.