Zoology
Why Study Zoology at U of G?
Zoology, the scientific study of animals in nature, including their biology, ecology, behaviour, and evolution, can help us understand the connections between animals and the environment and the impact of human activities.
The Zoology major at the University of Guelph provides a strong foundation in the structure and function, physiology and ecology of vertebrates and invertebrates. You’ll explore topics ranging from animal behaviour and ecosystems to the evolution of invertebrates, while developing the knowledge and skills to investigate how animals adapt, survive, and respond to environmental change.
Students are encouraged to focus their studies where they’re most interested, with courses in adaptational physiology, developmental biology, as well as hands-on labs in ornithology, ichthyology, herpetology and/or mammalogy. You can also pursue your own research question through a fourth-year independent research project.
Develop Your Knowledge of Animal Life
This major provides you with a broad foundation in animal biology and biodiversity, from the individual to population levels, with courses in physiology, ecology, evolution, and the structure and function of invertebrates and vertebrates.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Take your studies beyond the classroom through field courses to places like Algonquin Provincial Park and St. Andrews, New Brunswick, state-of-the-art facilities, including the on-campus Centre for Biodiversity Genomics, and the University’s own 400-acre Arboretum. In your fourth year, you can pursue your own research questions through an independent research course.
To see all courses offered in the Zoology program, visit our Academic Calendar.
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- Top Comprehensive University
- in Canada (Maclean’s)
- Top 150 in the World
- for Life Sciences (Times Higher Education 2026)
- Top 20% in the World
- for Biological Sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
- Top 3 in Canada
- for Zoology (EduRank 2025)
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
The Zoology program has so much to offer students who are passionate about animals of all taxa and habitats! Through the various lectures, labs, and seminars offered, I have been able to expand my knowledge and practical skills related to animal morphology, evolution, and ecology. Through labs, I have gained hands-on experience with live animals, lab equipment, and dissected a variety of vertebrate and invertebrate species like sharks and squids! In seminars, I have learned how to design experiments and utilize tools and techniques critical for biological fieldwork. The highly knowledgeable experts in the Department of Integrative Biology are clearly passionate about what they teach, which makes learning all the more engaging and fun.
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.
Just as a safari takes you deep into the heart of the wilderness to witness nature’s wonders up close, the Zoology program immerses you in the fascinating world of animals. We are not treated as just students; we are curious explorers, encouraged to ask questions and engage in passionate discussions. Balancing hands-on experiences like dissections and live animal handling, alongside enlightening lectures on evolution, the Zoology program serves as a guiding light, helping you make well-informed career decisions.
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.)
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Scholarships & Bursaries
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