Zoology Courses in India

Zoology Courses in India are amongst the various science courses in India. Zoology education in India involves the study of biology and genetics of animals including marine life, zoo animals, wildlife, domestic animals and even household pets. Zoology is a branch of biology that focuses on the structure, function, behaviour, and evolution of animals. It is a broad and diverse field that studies not just mammals but also reptiles, birds, insects, fishes, amphibians and others. Zoology even goes a step further by studying species that have become extinct as well as speculative species meaning those that may or may not exist. Zoology specialist are known as Zoologists. They are life scientists who study animals, observing them both in the laboratory and in their natural habitat. They study the origin and development of species, their habits, behaviours and interactions. They also research the development of animal diseases. Zoologists are sometimes known as animal scientists or animal biologists. Zoology in India is mainly headed by Zoological Survey of India (ZSI). It is a taxonomic organization involved in the study of all kinds of animals from Protozoa to Mammalia, occurring in all possible habitats.

Some of its specialized fields are -

• Anthropology.
• Anthrozoology.
• Apiology.
• Arachnology.
• Arthropodology.
• Cetology.
• Conchology.
• Entomology.
• Ethology.
• Helminthology.
• Herpetology.
• Ichthyology.
• Malacology.
• Mammalogy.
• Myrmecology.
• Nematology.
• Neuroethology.
• Ornithology.
• Paleozoology.
• Planktology.
• Primatology.

Zoology Courses in India: Content

The study of this field includes all or few of these –

1. Animal Physiology, Genetics & Evolution.
2. Applied Zoology.
3. Environmental Biology & Biodiversity.
4. Developmental Biology & Immunology.
5. Practical.

Zoology Education in India: Objectives

• To utilize technological advances in conservation of endangered species and their environment.
• To provide better animal care facilities.
• To pioneer research in order to end animal-human conflict.

Zoology Courses in India: Basic Requirements

To study Zoology one needs to have passed 10+2 in science (physics, chemistry and biology as subjects) or equivalent. Entrance examination is also required for admission in various institutes. Zoology is offered in most universities and colleges all over India. The ZSI also provides a short terms training in the art of taxidermy to candidates sponsored by different organizations. An annual training programme in collection, preservation and identification of insects and mites of economic importance has also been initiated since the last many years and every year more than ten candidates sponsored by the universities and institutes are given this training.

Zoology Colleges in India

• Annamalai University
• Acharya Nagarjuna University
• Central University of Allahabad
• University of Pune
• Panjab University

Job Perspectives

A zoology education can lead to a variety of career paths and research opportunities in the field of natural sciences and animal studies. Zoology jobs in India are mostly limited to teaching, biological and biomedical research. Careers in zoology can be found all over the world, and some involve travelling. Channels like National Geographic and the Discovery Channel provide an ample opportunity for documentary film makers and other specialists. SeaWorld, a United States chain of marine mammal parks and other famous zoological parks like Singapore zoo, San Diego zoo etc. are some major employers. Other like wildlife parks and resorts are also other major source of employment for zoology graduates.

Remuneration: Salary depends on the education, experience, nature of work, area of specialization, and type of employing organization. One can earn about Rs. 8,000 to 13,000 per month. After five to seven years of work experience, this can surpass to Rs. 25,000 per month.

Some Job Types

1. Animal and Wildlife Educators.
2. Zoo keeper.
3. Animal rehabilitator.
4. Zoo Curator.
5. Documentary Maker.
6. Researcher.
7. Animal Behaviourists.
8. Conservationists.
9. Animal Trainers.
10. Forensic Experts.
11. Animal Caretakers.
12. Wildlife Biologists.
13. Animal breeders.
14. Veterinarian.
15. Lab Technicians.

Some Employment Areas

• Zoos.
• Aquariums.
• Television Channels.
• Veterinary Hospitals.
• Animal Clinics.
• Colleges and Universities.
• Research.
• Wildlife Management Firms.
• Fisheries and Aquaculture.
• Pest Control Companies.
• Animal Care-taking Providers.
• Museums.
• Botanical Gardens
• Conservation organizations
• Nature reserves