Biological Sciences Biology of Animals

This concentration within the biology major is an opportunity for students to explore, in greater detail, the behaviors, phylogeny, anatomy, physiology and environmental interactions of animals. Students are able to focus their upper level elective courses on animals and related topics.

Biology is the scientific study of life and life processes. Biologists study the organization of life from the structures of molecules to the balance of ecosystems. Biology majors learn to observe critically the details of all life; they analyze data and apply biological knowledge learned in the classroom to draw conclusions about their observations. 

Biologists are able to make significant contributions to maintaining the health and well-being of the human population, as well as preserving and protecting the environment. They develop a knowledge base and scientific way of thinking that will enable them to make informed personal health and public policy decisions.

Graduates with a BS in biology and a concentration in biology of animals have a wide range of career options as well as options for graduate study. The MS or PhD degree in biology can lead to careers in teaching and research. Students interested in applying to veterinary school will find this concentration to be particularly appropriate. A few examples of career fields open to biology majors with this concentration include the following (most require additional post-graduate training):

• Academic, industrial, environmental / organismal, medical/pharmaceutical researcher
• Anatomist        
• Animal behaviorist (Ethnologist)
• Biology teacher (Middle/High School)
• Ecologist
• Entomologist (Insects)
• Fish and wildlife management specialist
• Fisheries / wildlife biologist        
• Herpetologist (Amphibians & Reptiles)
• Ichthyologist (Fish) 
• Invertebrate biologist
• Laboratory animal medicine specialist
• Mammalogist
• Marine biologist
• Museum curator
• Natural resources manager
• Naturalist
• Ornithologist (Birds) 
• Vertebrate biologist
• Veterinarian, veterinary technician
• Zoologist

• Complete Common Application
• Pay $100 non-refundable fee
• Submit official School transcripts
• Submit official test scores
• Submit letter of recommendation (optional)