Zoology
Why Study Zoology at U of G?
How will climate change impact animal populations? How does pollution affect fish behaviour? Zoology can help us understand past, present and future connections between animals and the environment, including the impact of human activities.
Through the Zoology major, students take an interdisciplinary approach to studying animals, including through animal biology, ecology and evolution, and deepen their studies with hands-on experiences, including organism-specific lab courses.
After building a foundation in the biological sciences, Zoology majors have the flexibility to choose courses in topics of interest to them, including mammalogy, ornithology, herpetology and fish biology.
Develop Your Knowledge of Animal Life
This major provides you with a broad foundation in animal biology and biodiversity, from the molecular to population level, with courses in physiology, ecology, evolution, and structure and function of invertebrates and vertebrates.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Take your studies beyond the classroom and participate in a field course, international exchange, or research project, and contribute to our knowledge of the animal kingdom. Past students have participated in field courses on both coasts of Canada, in Algonquin Park and the Northern Studies Centre in Manitoba, as well as Australia, Argentina, Iceland and Costa Rica.
To see all courses offered in the Zoology program, visit our Academic Calendar.
- Top 5 Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Macleans 2024)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2024)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS Top Universities 2024)
- Top 3 in Canada
- for Zoology (EduRank 2024)
Careers in Zoology
With their mix of practical experience, gained through lab, field and research courses, and knowledge, including in strategies for conservation at the individual, population and community levels, Zoology graduates are well prepared for a wide range of careers in public and private sectors.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Agricultural Zoologist
- Animal Care and Research Assistant
- Animal Ecologist
- Aquatic Research Scientist
- Avian Biologist
- Biology Teacher
- Communications Lead
- Consultation Biologist
- Field Biologist
- Fisheries Biologist
- Habitat Developer
- Health Educator
- Laboratory Manager
- Museum Curator
- Nature Reserves Manager
- Researcher
- Resource Management Officer
- Science Journalist
- Senior Policy Advisor
- Senior Specialist, Natural Heritage Management
- Stewardship Officer
- Sustainability Manager
- Terrestrial and Wetland Biology
- Wildlife Biologist
- Zoo Attendant
Hear From Zoology Students and a Graduate
Attending the Zoology program at the University of Guelph was one of the most rewarding experiences. Being from B.C., it was a huge leap to come to Guelph for my postsecondary education, but I couldn’t be happier with my decision. A large part of my undergraduate degree involved hands-on experience with Wild Ontario, which was extremely reaffirming for me to pursue an education involved with animals. In my fourth years I also completed an undergraduate thesis, under the supervision of Dr. Adamowicz of the Integrative Biology department. That project ignited my passion for research and asking questions about the world around us, and provided me with meaningful experience that continues to assist me post graduation and with my career journey!
As an international student from Italy, I chose the University of Guelph for its top-ranked veterinary school and animal science programs designed to gain hands-on experience in your undergrad. In my first year, I have had opportunities to do lab work and learn practical foundational skills in seminars. Joining the Future Vets Club, I took a field trip to the Toronto Zoo to see backstage clinics and meet vets pursuing my passion. I am amazed by how much I am learning about animals and their habitats, and can't wait to apply that knowledge to make a difference with endangered species.
Discover More Options
Students considering the Zoology program may also be interested in Animal Biology, Animal Science, Marine and Freshwater Biology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, or other majors. (Note that Animal Biology and Animal Science focus mainly on domesticated animals, including pets and livestock, whereas Zoology studies all animals.)
Admission Requirements
Explore admission requirements for Canadian, international, transfer, and mature students. Start your journey today!
Scholarships & Bursaries
We offer a wide range of financial aid programs to assist with funding your education at the University of Guelph.
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