Zoology (BA, BS)

Zoology is the study of animals: their anatomy, physiology, evolution and ecology. The major is appropriate for those desiring a degree in the natural sciences and whose main interest is in animals. Zoology is often chosen as a major by pre-professional students (pre-med, pre-vet, pre-dent, etc.).

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Sue Ellen Dehority

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WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Zoology is the study of animals, from the simplest sponges to the most advanced arthropods, mollusks, and vertebrates. The zoology major is housed in the Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, which offers courses in the major animal groups (e.g., invertebrates, fish, birds, and mammals), as well as courses in evolution, ecology, aquatic biology, conservation, behavior and physiology.

Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology website More EEOB courses

Completion of the zoology major will provide the proper underlying preparation for post-graduate education (e.g., veterinary medicine, medicine, dentistry, optometry, or graduate school), as well as for entry-level jobs across a range of animal-related occupations.

courses you might take:

3420: Behavioral Ecology

Comparative study of animal behaviors, and analysis of their adaptive value, physiological mechanisms, development, and evolution, within their ecological and social context. Also available summer session at Stone Lab.

4220: Focused Study of Ecology and Evolution - Mammals

Mammals of the world, their natural history, distribution, taxonomy, and major anatomical and physiological adaptations; study of local species emphasized in lab.

4510: Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy

Introduction to trends in vertebrate evolution as illustrated by the anatomy of select taxa; involves dissection of specimens.

3410: Ecology

Comparative study of animal behaviors, and analysis of their adaptive value, physiological mechanisms, development, and evolution, within their ecological and social context.

2220: Ohio Birds

The general biology of birds with emphasis on their natural histories and field identification of local species.

Beyond the Classroom

Zoology Club

The Ohio State Zoology Club is based on one common interest: a love for animals. All majors are welcomed. Our purpose is to get to know others with similar interests in the field of zoology. For those members who are planning to work with animals, we give you the chance to make connections and enhance your future. We give opportunities for all students to volunteer with animal organizations throughout the community.

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Ohio Biodiversity Conservation Program

Our goal is to conduct outstanding scientific research that directly benefits the citizens of Ohio by providing sound, scientifically-based advice for managing endangered species and other species of greatest conservation need in the state.

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Museum of Biological Diversity (MBD)


The Museum of Biological Diversity comprises the biological specimen collections at Ohio State. We are a resource for research, teaching, and outreach centered on biodiversity.
 

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Aquatic Ecology Laboratory

The AEL is a dynamic research group that seeks to advance knowledge and stewardship of aquatic ecosystems. The core principles of the AEL are research, collaboration, and outreach; check out the rest of the website to learn more about the AEL and how these principles guide our breadth of interests.

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