Zoology Courses overview
Overview
The world’s wildlife is continuously affected by human activity. Farming and development have led to habitat loss, migration and species’ population decrease. Animals are also struggling with environmental pollution and climate change that are directly affecting their habitats and ecosystems. These factors are contributing to the demand for more wildlife and zoology experts. Zoologists acquire knowledge and skills that are critical to preserving natural habitats and managing how wildlife adapts to environmental and climate changes.
Zoology, also known as animal biology, is the study of animals, their behaviours, natural habitats, evolution, as well as their interactions with each other and their environment. It involves the study of all kinds of animals, both living and extinct; in the wild or in a captive setting.
Is zoology for me?
If you have a keen interest in biology, are a savvy researcher and enjoy the company of animals, this course could be for you. Zoology has a wide range of specialisations and can open doors to careers in areas such as ecology, conservation and research.
Study pathway
Zoology is usually taken as an undergraduate course. Postgraduate study is for those who want to further their knowledge and skills into a particular field of study.
A graduate certificate or diploma will help students gain theoretical and practical knowledge that will provide expertise in one or more areas of broad fields of zoology. It typically takes six months to complete if taken as full-time study, or one year if taken as part-time.
A coursework master’s degree will provide students with a deeper understanding of particular fields in zoology, while a research master’s degree enhances students’ knowledge and skills through a substantive research program, often providing a pathway to a PhD or academic positions. A master’s degree usually takes one year or two years to complete depending on the mode of study and if any prior credit has been awarded.
A PhD degree normally takes three years to complete and is suitable for those who wish to study zoology at an advanced level by further research and study.
Employment options
Zookeeper
Zookeepers are responsible for day-to-day care of zoo animals. They prepare food and feed animals, clean enclosures, monitor and record behavior and health conditions, groom and train animals.
Curator
Zoo curators are responsible for overseeing all aspects of animal management. Their main tasks generally involve decision making regarding animal husbandry, diets, veterinary care, quarantine procedures, enrichment activities, animal transportation, and research projects. They also are involved in the selection and acquisition of new animals for the collection.
Researcher
Researchers gather information and perform experiments to contribute to the overall welfare of animals. For instance, a researcher on animal behavior might study how animals mate and develop strategies and tactics to help rare and endangered species have the necessary mental stimulation and physical comfort to reproduce.
Educator
Educators research and collect information about animals and distribute it to the public in a form that is understandable to non-scientifically trained people. Distribution can be through print, .