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Degrees in Zoology

Degrees in Zoology

Unity Environmental University says of the study of zoology, "Zoologists are dedicated animal lovers who often travel far and wide to study various species in their habitats. As wildlife continues to adjust to climate change and the impact of human activity, the role of a zoologist will remain important for endangered populations."

A zoology degree helps graduates find careers to study animals in the wild and in made-made environments. "By observing various species in their habitats, zoologists understand how animals behave in the wild. Their goal is to identify and monitor how different species interact within their ecosystem. This is particularly important as climate change continues to transform various habitats."

Students who have a passion for animals will find a degree in Zoology particularly appealing. Zoology studies the animal kingdom and animal life. Zoology is a branch of biology where students will receive a strong educational foundation in animal biology, physiology, development, behavior, and evolution.

Zoology graduates can pursue a wide variety of careers and will especially excel in jobs that benefit from knowledge of animal biology, research, and ecology. Notable jobs include:
  • Domestic Animal Caretaker
  • Aquarium Employee
  • Zoo Caretaker
  • Aquarium and/or Zoo Educator
  • Park Naturalist
  • Museum Collection Manager
  • Biology Lab Assistant
  • Teacher
Zoology degrees are most commonly offered as Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. Some universities offer a degree in biology with a concentration in zoology.

GI BIll and Yellow Ribbon Program options to Earn a Degree in Zoology

Our list of GI Bill participating schools is below. Don't forget to explore your other military financial aid and veteran student financial aid opportunities. There is also help for military spouses who need scholarships and other financial aid.

Bachelor's Degree in Zoology

Students can earn either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science degree (as dictated by the school and the available curriculum). The Bachelor of Arts in Zoology is for students who wish to combine zoology with a significant amount of coursework outside the sciences, especially focusing on humanities and social science.

A BA is intended for students who wish to prepare for careers in which they apply zoology to other fields, such as public policy, education, business, and communications.

The Bachelor of Science in Zoology is for students who seek employment in animal biology fields or further education in graduate programs in animal biology. A BS has a focus on courses in biology, chemistry, physics, calculus, and statistics.

Graduates can find employment in a wide variety of fields including:
  • Conservation agencies
  • Federal, state and local government
  • Education
  • Museums
  • Research
  • Domestic and/or Wildlife Management
  • Pre-veterinary fields
  • Zoos and Aquariums
Upon graduation, students can enter the workforce and/or pursue further education by earning a graduate degree.

Jobs with a Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology:

  • Animal Care Worker- Attend to or train animals. Animal care workers are employed in a variety of settings, including kennels, zoos, stables, animal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics, and aquariums. Median Annual Salary: $26,000.
  • Public Relations Specialist- Create and maintain a favorable public image for the organization they represent, specifically as it relates to a zoological client (i.e., animal welfare groups, zoos, aquariums, etc.). Median Annual Salary: $63,000.
  • Zoologist- Study animals and other wildlife and how they interact with their ecosystems. Median Annual Salary: $67,000.
  • Customs Broker- Works to ensure client shipments meet the dozens of requirements enforced by US Customs and Border Control. Specifically as it relates to the zoology field, the import and export of animals for public and/or private clients. Median Annual Salary: $76,000.
Ready to start your Bachelor’s Degree in Zoology? Check out these great programs available at our partner schools:  

Michigan State University- Offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. Michigan State participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.

University of South Alabama- Offers a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with different Zoology track options including Invertebrate Zoology, Invertebrate Zoology, Marine Vertebrate Zoology, and Marine Invertebrate Zoology. USA participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.

Fayetteville State University- Offers several Bachelor Degrees in Biology including a BS in Biology with a concentration in Organismal Biology. FSU participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.

Syracuse University- Offers a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Biology with an opportunity to focus on Evolution and Animal Behavior. Syracuse participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.

Master's Degree in Zoology

A Master’s Degree in Zoology is a popular choice for those seeking to become an expert in this field. A graduate degree in Zoology will offer in-depth study in specific areas of zoology offered by the school and of particular interest to the student. Popular areas of concentration include:A graduate degree will also further develop student skills in research, communication, and writing. An advanced degree is a great choice for those choosing career paths such as writing or teaching.

Jobs with a Master’s Degree in Zoology:

Ready to start your Master’s Degree in Zoology? Check out these great programs available at our partner schools:  

American University- Offers a Master of Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Track. American University participates in the Yellow Ribbon program.