How to decide if a zoology major is the right path

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Key takeaways

A zoology major studies animals, their behavior, genetics, and ecosystems.
It’s different from animal science, which focuses more on agriculture and livestock.
You’ll take courses in biology, ecology, genetics, and conservation.
Career paths include research, conservation, veterinary work, and education.
Scholarships and school search tools can help you fund and plan your degree.

So, you’re thinking about studying zoology? If you’ve always been the person who’s curious about animals—from the tiniest insects to the largest whales—a zoology major could be a great fit. Let’s break down what zoology is, how it compares to similar majors, what courses you’ll take, and where this degree can take you career-wise.

What is zoology?

Zoology is the scientific study of animals, their biology, behaviors, and interactions with the environment. As a zoology major, you’ll dive deep into animal life—from anatomy and genetics to conservation and evolution. This degree is perfect if you want to combine a love of science with a passion for wildlife.

Zoology vs. animal science

While zoology focuses on studying animals in natural and research settings, animal science is usually more about agriculture and livestock management. If you’re interested in wildlife, ecosystems, or conservation, zoology is likely your path. If you’re curious about veterinary care for farm animals or food production, animal science might be better.

Key courses and specializations for zoology majors

As a zoology major, you’ll take core classes in biology, chemistry, and physics. From there, you can specialize in areas like:

Ecology and conservation
Marine biology
Genetics and evolution
Animal physiology and anatomy
Wildlife biology

Common double majors or minors for zoology majors

Pairing zoology with another field can open even more doors. Popular pairings include:

Environmental science
Psychology (for animal behavior)
Chemistry or biochemistry
Geography (for ecosystems and habitats)
Education

What skills will I learn as a zoology major?

Through labs, fieldwork, and research, you’ll build skills in:

Critical thinking and data analysis
Scientific writing and communication
Problem-solving and observation
Research methods and laboratory techniques
Teamwork during field studies

Top career paths in zoology

A zoology degree can lead to a variety of roles, such as:

Wildlife biologist
Marine biologist
Veterinarian (with further study)
Conservation scientist
Researcher or professor
Zoo or aquarium specialist

Salary potential with a zoology degree

Salaries in zoology vary depending on your career path. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, zoologists and wildlife biologists earn a median annual wage of around $72,000, with higher earning potential in research, government, and advanced roles.

Is zoology right for me?

If you love animals, enjoy science, and want to make an impact on conservation or research, zoology might be your path. It’s hands-on, research-focused, and often outdoors—perfect for curious, passionate learners.

Notable schools for zoology majors

Some universities are especially well-known for their zoology programs, offering strong faculty, research opportunities, and fieldwork options. A few notable schools include:

While choosing, use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals.

Paying for your zoology degree

If you're interested in a degree in zoology, we have tools and resources to help. Use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals and Scholly Scholarships to find scholarships based on your skills and interests. You can also explore a range of scholarships by major, including scholarships for zoology majors —and easily apply for Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.