Zoology Degrees: Details, Admissions, Duration, Fees in 2026

If you have a passion for animals, enjoy hands-on learning, and want to make a meaningful impact through research and conservation, a degree in zoology might be right for you. Zoology students often participate in laboratory work, go on field research trips, and real-world studies that explore animal life and ecosystems. 

Read on to learn more about what zoology study involves, the different types of zoology degrees available, and the potential career paths you can pursue after graduation.

What Is Zoology?

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, including their behavior, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution. A course in zoology will typically cover topics such as animal physiology, wildlife conservation, biodiversity, taxonomy, and specialized areas like marine biology or entomology. Coursework often combines classroom learning with laboratory research and fieldwork that gives students an idea of what a career in the field might look like in practice.

Zoology professionals investigate what animals eat, how they live, and how they interact with their habitats. To pursue a career in this field, formal education in the subject or a related area is required. Zoology courses are offered at different levels of study — undergraduate and graduate degrees, and certificates — with a bachelor’s degree being the most common qualification held by zoology professionals.

Now that we have looked at what a zoology course is and what you can expect to study, let us look at the types of programs available.

Types of Zoology Degrees

If you are an international student interested in studying zoology in the US, there are different academic pathways you can choose from, depending on your future career plans. Here are two of the main Zoology programs you will come across:

BSc in Zoology (Bachelor of Science in Zoology)

A BS in Zoology is designed for students who are certain they want to specialize in animal sciences. These programs focus heavily on animal biology, physiology, ecology, and research methods. Graduates of this degree are well prepared for careers in wildlife management, research, conservation, or further study in veterinary or graduate programs.

BSc in Biological Sciences (with focus on Zoology)

This option provides a broader foundation in biology, including genetics, microbiology, and cellular biology, with a significant portion of coursework dedicated to animal studies (approximately 30–50%). This pathway offers greater flexibility for students who may later pursue careers in medicine, biotechnology, environmental science, or other science-related fields.

Once you have identified which pathway you would like to take, it is time to look at the admission requirements for zoology courses as an international student.

Admissions and Educational Requirements

To apply to a zoology undergraduate program in the US as an international student, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification, such as A-levels, typically with a strong background in science subjects. Universities in the US also require proof of English language proficiency scores that meet their minimum requirements.

It is always best to check with the university regarding any specific requirements for their program. Once you have identified the institution’s admission requirements, you can start researching its different zoology programs, their duration, and fees.

Zoology Program Duration

The level of study determines the duration of a zoology program. The most common zoology programs in the US are:

• Bachelor’s degrees: Most zoology bachelor’s programs in the US take four years to complete and provide the foundation needed for entry-level roles in the field.

• Master’s degrees: Master’s programs in zoology or related disciplines allow students to specialize and typically take two to three years to complete.

• PhD programs: A PhD in Zoology or a related field is ideal for students interested in academic careers or leading research projects and can take four to six years to complete.

The total duration of the program can vary depending on whether you choose to pursue an internship, study during the summer, or select a fast-track program. Students who gain early experience through internships or other research work can strengthen their job prospects after graduation.

Zoology Program Fees in 2026

The cost of pursuing zoology degrees in the US depends on several factors with the main ones being the university you choose and the overall duration of the zoology program you decide to pursue.

Other factors that affect the cost of studying in the US, such as the location of the university, insurance, meal plans, type of accommodation, entertainment expenses, and various university fees, should also be considered when searching for zoology programs in the US.

Now that we have looked at how much a zoology program can cost in the US, let us look at the most popular specializations you can consider.

Most Popular Zoology Specializations

Students pursuing a degree in zoology can choose from a range of specializations that align with their interests, career goals, and passions — with each specialization offering a different  way to understand zoology at a deeper level.

Wildlife Biology

Wildlife biology focuses on the study, management, and conservation of wild animal populations and their natural habitats. While zoologists may study animals in labs or zoos, wildlife biologists emphasize field research, population dynamics, and human-wildlife interactions to protect ecosystems. You will learn to apply biological principles to the management, conservation, and research of animal populations, specifically analyzing how environmental factors and human activity affect the ecosystems.

Animal Behavior (Ethology)

Ethology is the scientific study of animal behavior, focusing on innate and learned actions, evolutionary adaptation, and naturalistic observation. You will learn to analyze how animals interact with each other and their environments through the lens of evolutionary biology, psychology, and ecology.

Marine Biology / Marine Zoology 

This specialty concentrates on the ecology, behavior, physiology, and conservation of marine organisms, ranging from invertebrates to marine mammals. You will learn to analyze marine ecosystems, from coastal shores to the deep sea, and evaluate the impact of human activities upon marine life.

Entomology

Entomology is a specialized branch of zoology focusing on the study of insects, covering their anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and taxonomy. In this area, you will learn how these organisms interact with their environments, other species, and humans, while gaining skills in both laboratory analysis and field research.

Herpetology

Herpetology is focused on the study of reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles) and amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders). You will learn about their biology, evolution, behavior, and ecology, with a strong emphasis on conservation and habitat management.

Having looked at the different specializations and concentrations as well as the admission requirements, let us look at potential careers you can pursue with a zoology degree.

Zoology Professional Paths, Job Outlook, and Salary in 2026

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for zoologists and wildlife biologists in 2024 was $72,860, and employment in the field is projected to grow by 2% between 2024 and 2034.

Below are some roles you could pursue with a zoology or related degree and their average annual salaries in the US, Brazil, China, and India:

Source: SalaryExpert, 2026

Getting an idea of what salaries look like for different zoology careers can help you make an informed decision regarding which specialization and degree to pursue. Let us explore a few top-ranking universities that offer zoology degrees in the US.

Study at Top US Universities with Shorelight’s Help

Shorelight universities offer international students top-ranking zoology programs designed to develop the knowledge and skills you need to pursue your dream career in the field of zoology. These programs emphasize hands-on learning in real-life settings, research opportunities, and career preparation for when you step into the field.

Let us take a look at a few Shorelight universities with zoology degrees you could pursue:

University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming (UW), located in Laramie, Wyoming, offers a STEM-designated Bachelor of Science in Zoology at its College of Agriculture, Life Sciences, and Natural Resources. Students have the opportunity to gain real-life field experience with toxicology testing methods, live chipmunk trapping, and bird-banding. You will also have the chance to participate in research as an undergraduate, studying Wyoming’s diverse ecosystems.

Ohio Wesleyan University

Ohio Wesleyan University, located in Delaware, Ohio, offers a zoology pre-professional degree that prepares students for careers as medical doctors and veterinarians, college professors, researchers, and in public service. Alumni have had the opportunity to work with national agencies, parks, wildlife centers, and research institutions.

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Palm Beach Atlantic University, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, offers a BS in Biology with a concentration in zoology at the School of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Students can engage in hands-on learning and go on field trips to places such as the Everglades, the Galapagos Islands, and Costa Rica.

University of Central Florida

The University of Central Florida, ranked #117 in National Universities (U.S. News & World Report) offers a STEM-designated BS in Biology with a concentration in Zoology & Pre-Veterinarian Science. This program is designed for students seeking entrance into a veterinary medical program or graduate school in an animal biology-related field. Students also gain practical experience through partnerships with organizations such as the Central Florida Zoo and local wildlife centers.

Learning what zoology study entails, the main types of zoology courses available, and the entry requirements zoology programscan help you make an informed decision while you search for universities to pursue your undergraduate zoology degree. By completing a zoology degree you can acquire the foundational knowledge required to pursue your dream career and make a meaningful impact in the lives of animals.

If you are ready to study in the US, and need help navigating the college application process or visa requirements, our experienced advisors are available to assist you every step of the way.

Shorelight advisors can help you find the right degree program for your goals >