Our zoology degree programs provide a basic understanding of zoology through a variety of laboratory experiences in combination with the study of facts and theories.
Overview
All students engage in research activities through a broad range of research courses, independent study or a senior honors thesis. Outstanding internship opportunities, study-abroad initiatives and Oswego's Rice Creek Field Station make our zoology program a sought-after degree by itself or preparation for veterinary school.
Top-notch research facilities and opportunities in the Shineman Center and Rice Creek Field Station make the campus a living laboratory. At the same time, a proven track record and alumni network open a large assortment of internship options. Excel and you can participate in the department's honors program and summer research opportunities.
Our facilities allow expansive undergraduate opportunities, which include our Shineman Center's many advanced labs, the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Center, and our large Rice Creek Field Station with a 7,200-square-foot lab facility.
Curriculum
Bachelor of ScienceRice Creek Field Station
This 330-acre living laboratory dedicated to scientific research includes classrooms, telescopic equipment and a network of hiking trails.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate critical thinking skills through experimental design, data analysis, the critique of others' investigations and discussion of findings/data
- Identify, analyze and evaluate arguments as they occur in your own and others' work
- Develop well-reasoned arguments
- Learn about the physiology, feeding habits and behavior of an assortment of animals
Career Opportunities
- Animal behavior
- Aquatic technology
- Conservation
- Ecology
- Environmental technology
- Marine biology
- Medicine and allied health
- Museum work
- Teaching and research
- Veterinary science
- Zoo and animal parks
My major is known to be challenging, which it is, however the major has so many options for electives that can help me go in any direction in terms of career. The classes are fun and the labs are so hands on with my learning that it really helps me grow as a student.
Participating in long-term research has given me experience that will help initiate projects in the future. Studying abroad in Honduras and Australia were life-changing experiences that have enhanced my education in every way possible.
By studying topics across many fields of study I feel the coursework has moved me in directions I would never have been in had I not taken those courses. For example the near entirety of Physics would have been a mystery to me had I not taken the full year of it with lab.
My research experiences have taught me valuable skills that I can apply to my future career, and has allowed me to be able to apply to jobs and internships I otherwise wouldn't have qualified for.
Program Resources
The Oswego Guarantee
- Timely course offerings
- High touch connections to alumni
- Small student to faculty ratio
- Limited room & board increases each year
Internships
Learn what it's like to work in a professional setting while still in school.
Where Our Students Have Interned
- Buffalo Zoo
- Detroit Zoo
- Dolphin Quest in Bermuda and Hawaii
- Syracuse's Museum of Science and Technology
- National Aquarium
- Philadelphia Zoo
- Rosamond Gifford Zoo
- Wildlands Conservancy
- Zoo Atlanta
- Zoological Society of Buffalo
Research
Apply the knowledge you learn in the classroom to research in the field and laboratory.
Join our Honors Program
With the department’s approval, enter the honors program, where you’ll have the opportunity to pursue advanced topics and work with faculty one-on-one.