If you love animals and want to build a career working with wildlife, conservation, or veterinary science, earning a zoology or animal science degree can open many doors.
Today, many universities offer online zoology and animal science degree programs, allowing students to study animal biology, conservation, and behavior from anywhere.
In this guide, we explore 20 of the best degrees for working with animals, including zoology, marine biology, animal behavior, and veterinary science.
Animal and Zoology Degrees You Can Earn Online
Many colleges now offer online degrees related to zoology, wildlife science, and animal biology. These programs allow students to study animal behavior, ecosystems, and animal health while completing coursework remotely.
The table below highlights some of the most common animal-focused degrees available online and the careers they can lead to.
| Degree | Focus of Study | Potential Careers |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Science | Livestock management, animal nutrition, biology | Farm manager, animal nutritionist, agricultural researcher |
| Zoology | Animal biology, evolution, ecosystems | Zoologist, wildlife biologist, conservation scientist |
| Marine Biology | Ocean ecosystems and marine life | Marine biologist, aquarium researcher |
| Wildlife Conservation | Wildlife habitats and conservation policy | Wildlife officer, conservation specialist |
| Veterinary Science | Animal health and medicine preparation | Veterinarian, vet technician, veterinary researcher |
| Animal Behavior | Behavior and psychology of animals | Animal trainer, behavioral researcher |
| Forestry and Wildlife | Ecosystem management | Park ranger, wildlife manager |
| Biology | Broad biological sciences | Research scientist, lab technician |
Careers You Can Get With These Degrees
A zoology or animal science degree can lead to many careers working directly with animals or studying wildlife and ecosystems. Graduates often work in research, conservation, agriculture, or veterinary medicine.
Some common careers include:
Zoologist
Zoologists study animals in their natural environments. They conduct research on animal behavior, genetics, and ecosystems.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study how animals interact with their environments and help develop conservation strategies.
Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study ocean ecosystems and aquatic species such as fish, marine mammals, and coral reefs.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat medical conditions in animals. Many students pursue veterinary school after completing an undergraduate degree in animal science or biology.
Animal Trainer
Animal trainers work with animals in zoos, aquariums, film productions, and training facilities.
Conservation Scientist
These professionals work to protect wildlife habitats and develop conservation programs.
Park Ranger
Park rangers work in national and state parks managing wildlife areas and educating the public about conservation.
Zoo Curator or Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals in zoos and wildlife parks while monitoring health and behavior.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many careers in wildlife biology and conservation require a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or environmental science.
Zoology and Animal Career Salaries
Salaries vary depending on education level, specialization, and employer. Many careers in zoology and animal science require fieldwork or research experience.
Here are typical salary ranges for common animal-related careers.
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Zoologist / Wildlife Biologist | ~$67,430 |
| Veterinarian | ~$119,100 |
| Conservation Scientist | ~$68,750 |
| Animal Trainer | ~$39,000 |
| Veterinary Technician | ~$43,740 |
| Park Ranger | ~$47,000 |
These salary estimates are based on national data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Higher salaries are often available for professionals with graduate degrees or specialized research experience.
#1 – Online Bachelor’s in Animal Science
Animal science applies natural and life science principles to the study of animals. Online degree programs in this subject cover topics like:
- Animal biochemistry
- Animal biology
- Animal physiology and anatomy
This major prepares you for graduate school where you can enroll in a master’s degree zoology program. When you graduate, you can find work in:
- Biomedical research
- Dairy management
- Farm management
- Wildlife conservation
- Wildlife education
You find these programs at accredited schools like NCSU and Oregon State University. North Carolina State University, Oregon State University
#2 – Online Bachelor’s in Forestry and Wildlife
The forestry and wildlife major has one main goal. To empower you to create sustainable ecosystems for animal and plant species. To do this, you need to know basic biological principles. With a love for the outdoors and knowledge in the field, you can work in many different careers. The major offers specializations that help you find niche areas of interest, including:
- Fisheries
- Forestry
- Wildlife conservation
Specializations ensure that students gain a broad foundation in forestry and wildlife. They also provide skills in a deeper area of forestry.
Schools offering Online Bachelor’s in Forestry and Wildlife: Auburn University
#3 – Online Bachelor’s in Oceanography
Oceanography uses scientific concepts and applications to study the ocean and its inhabitants. The major is interdisciplinary. It covers coursework in many different life sciences. In this undergraduate degree program, plan on taking courses in:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Geology
- Geography
- Math
- Physics
Students learn about the varying topographies of the earth’s oceans. They also study the plant and animal species that call the ocean home.
In this degree in oceanography program, you learn how oceanic health impacts the world. You also learn how to stop environmental threats to the oceans. You focus on how to stop threats through innovation, policy, and science. But you don’t spend all your time in the classroom. You get opportunities to be on the water. You conduct research through field experiences and internships.
Schools offering this type of online degree: University of Washington
#4 – Online BS in Agricultural Science
Agriculture science is a popular major for animal lovers. Agriculture is pervasive in society and impacts people in different ways. In this type of zoology degree, you can choose different curriculum paths. These include:
- Animal science
- Business management
- Policy and education
- Sustainable farming
An ag science program offers hands-on training that bridges the real world and the classroom. The major prepares students for an agriculture career. During your career you might discuss agricultural issues with local and state politicians. You might also engage in sustainable farming research to improve crop production. The range of duties are broad.
Schools offering Online BS in Agricultural Science: NC State University, Oregon State University
#5 – Online BS in Wildlife Conservation
One zoology degree that covers conservation of animals and their associated habitats is wildlife conservation. In this unique zoology degree program, you study all types of animals, from birds to mammals.
You also explore how public policy and climate change impact animals and their habitats. This degree in zoology type of program prepares you for graduate school. You can also land a job in conservation. Possible careers include:
- Game warden
- Fishing and hunting guide
- Wildlife biologist
- Wildlife technician
- Zookeeper
In this program, you take a wide range of classes that cover different natural sciences topics. You study everything from chemistry and evolutionary biology to natural resources management and statistics.
This major is available at post-secondary colleges and universities. But some schools, such as Oregon State University, offer it as a concentration within a biology program.
Schools offering this type of online degree: Southern New Hampshire University, Oregon State University
#6 – Online BS in Dairy Science
Dairy science prepares you for a wide range of careers in agribusiness and dairy farming. When you finish this unique degree in zoology program, you gain a strong background in applied animal biology. You also gain business sense for the dairy industry.
Courses cover a range of topics common in degree in zoology programs. Courses include:
- Agriculture economics
- Animal nutrition
- Animal reproduction
- Dairy farm management
As with other animal science degree online programs, dairy science offers real-world learning opportunities. These include observations, research, and internships. Experiences help students gain hands-on skills and prepare them for jobs. Dairy science works for students who are passionate about agriculture and farming.
Schools offering a degree in dairy science: Wisconsin Technical College
#7 – Online BS in Poultry Science
Poultry science is the study of chicken, eggs, turkey, and other poultry products. You study animals and learn about their behavior. You also learn about the industries that deliver one of the most used commodities in the world.
Curriculum is as wide-reaching as the industry. These special degree in zoology students learn about the poultry species through courses in:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Genetics
You also study about the processing and production of poultry. You learn about regulation efforts and how production works. Graduates with a poultry science degree can go to work in many different areas. They work in business, education, and research.
Schools offering this unique type of degree program: Stephen F. Austin State University
#8 – Online BS in Animal Behavior
Looking for a degree that focuses on animal behavior? In this major, students focus on the study of the brain and nervous system. You answer questions such as:
- How do animals learn new behaviors?
- How do they adapt to their environment?
- How do they solve problems?
This major prepares students with knowledge needed to get into graduate school and earn a master’s degree in zoology or another field. You can also qualify for jobs as animal trainers and animal researchers or work in sanctuaries and zoos.
Schools offering this type of online degree: Husson University Online
#9 – Online BS in Anatomy
Anatomy majors learn about tissue structures and organ systems in the body. These online programs give students an understanding of how these interconnected systems and structures work together. You learn how systems and structures impact function and health.
In this bachelor’s degree program, you take courses that explore topics such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Endocrinology
- Neuroanatomy
Your courses meet pre-professional requirements for vet schools. You can leverage the undergraduate degree to prepare you for graduate school. In a master’s degree program, you might study animal health, behavior, or enroll in another zoology program.
Schools offering this undergraduate degree: Oregon Institute of Technology, Parker University
#10 – Online BS in Neurobiology
Neurobiology is the study of the brain and its development. If you want to understand how an animal’s brain works, you can earn a degree in this subject. It’s also a good major if you want to go into research because courses are research-heavy.
Your courses cover topics such as:
- Cognitive biology
- Molecular biology
- Psychology
You also take classes found in an online animal behavior degree program. During your last two years of school, you spend most of your time doing research. Some programs offer internship opportunities. Internships give you experience that can lead to employment opportunities. Internships also prepare you for graduate school where you can earn a master’s degree in zoology or another field.
Schools offering this type of program: University of Pennsylvania
#11 – Online BS in Genetics
In a zoology degree program, you study genetics. But you can also major in it. Genetics teaches you about inheritable traits. Students learn about mutations passed through genetic information and DNA.
Genetics majors study cellular growth. They also learn about cell reproduction. You study everything from research techniques used in the fight of diseases such as cancer to how to map genes.
Courses offered in this type of online education field include:
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Developmental genetics
- Human genetics
- Molecular genetics
You can also specialize in a subfield of genetics and earn a concentration. Popular concentrations include:
- Animal genetics
- Genome sciences
- Molecular genetics
- Plant genetics
With a degree in zoology or genetics, you can go to graduate or medical school. You can earn a master’s degree and find work in animal and human research.
Schools offering this type of undergraduate degree: ASU Online
#12 – Online BS in Cellular Biology
Cellular or cell biology majors study the processes that govern the basic unit of life – the cell. Cell biology draws from various scientific disciplines, such as:
- Biochemistry
- Chemistry
- Genetics
- Physics
- Physiology
Studies give you a deeper understanding of how the cell impacts life. As a cell biology major you also take college-level mathematics. You spend a lot of time in laboratories gaining hands-on experience. When you graduate, you’re prepared for graduate school and a master’s degree. You also qualify for jobs in healthcare, research, and teaching.
Schools offering this degree: University of Florida
#13 – Online BS in Veterinary Science
Veterinary science is a good undergraduate degree for animal lovers. Curriculum focuses on learning to meet the healthcare needs of all animals. You work with domestic pets, livestock, wildlife, and zoo animals.
The veterinary science degree in zoology program prepares you for veterinary school. It covers topics found in a zoology online bachelor’s degree program. It also gives you comprehensive biology training.
In this program, you take classes like:
- Mammalian physiology
- Microbiology
- Zoology
- Wildlife biology
You also spend a time in the field gaining hands-on experience and working with animals. But if you find out along the way you don’t want to become a veterinarian, you can pursue other jobs with this bachelor’s degree. You can go to work as a:
- Veterinary hospital manager
- Veterinary researcher
- Veterinary technician
To work as a vet tech, some employers require a veterinary technology online degree.
Schools offering this Online BS in Veterinary Science degree program: Oregon State University
#14 – Online BS in Marine Biology
Interested in marine habitats? Want to study oceans or different bodies of water? A degree in marine biology prepares biology and zoology students for jobs in this field.
As a marine biology major, you learn how creatures survive and thrive in various bodies of water. You study everything from microorganisms to large mammals found in the sea. You become knowledgeable through labs and coursework. You also spend time doing fieldwork.
Unlike other zoology bachelor’s degree programs, you spend a lot of time out of the classroom. Your fieldwork and studies allow you to:
- Earn scuba certification
- Intern at aquariums and marine research institutes
- Spend a semester at sea
Schools offering these online degrees: ASU, Oregon State
#15 – Online Bachelor’s Degree in Biology
Biology is the study of the scientific processes behind living organisms. A bachelor’s degree in biology is comprehensive. It provides a fundamental understanding of all forms of life within the context of:
- Characteristics
- Functions
- Habitats
- Processes
When you major in biology, you take a range of courses. Some include anatomy and physiology. You also study molecular and cell biology. Like some zoology major program, many courses in biology focus on animals. An online education in biology opens doors to master’s degree programs. Some students get teaching credentials or a graduate degree like a PhD in Biology. They teach in schools or academia.
Since biology is the basis for many scientific principles, it can lead to many different jobs. Your advanced studies prepare you to work in environmental science and wildlife management. Biology majors might work as:
- Animal behavior researchers
- Park rangers
- Zoo-animal experts
Schools offering online programs: Arizona State University, University of Florida
#16- Online BS in Zoology
Zoology isn’t only about zoos. Zoology students contribute to the scientific world by making an impact. A zoology major studies and researches special topics in biology such as:
- Animal anatomy
- Animal behavior
- Animal biology
- Evolution
- Physiology of both animals and humans
A bachelor’s degree in zoology also covers general science courses, but it prepares graduates for work with animals. Possible jobs for graduates of this animal science online degree program include:
- Animal nutritionists
- Biologists
- Conservation activists
- Veterinary technicians
Majoring in zoology can also open doors to master’s degree and pre-professional programs. Zoology major programs include veterinary medicine or medical school. As a zoology major, you explore broad studies in many different areas of biology. A degree in zoology is versatile.
Schools offering zoology bachelor’s degree programs: Atlantic International University, Oregon State University, University of New England
#17 – Online BS in Coastal Science
A bachelor’s degree in coastal science is a relatively new program. It goes by many names. Some schools call it coastal management or marine management. The major is for students interested in marine life.
In a coastal science or management program, you study coastal and marine ecosystems. You learn how to manage marine environments. With a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree, you can work in related jobs. NOAA Coastal Management hires zoology students with coastal science degrees. You can also go to work in national and marine parks.
If you’re interested in marine life and want to study something more niche than some of the common degrees with animals, this program can help.
Schools offering these online degrees: Middlebury Institute of International Studies
#18 – Online BS in Animal Health
An online degree in animal health can help you get jobs in areas that focus on animals and their well-being. You can work at:
- Animal welfare offices
- Aquariums
- Veterinarian facilities
- Zoos
This online program prepares students to care for wild and captive animals. These skills can also help you enter veterinarian school or work in veterinarian medicine.
Few online degree programs exist. Those offered have concentrations in special areas of study. These include:
- Animal husbandry
- Emergency disaster management
- Wildlife biology
- Wildlife ecology
Coursework is very hands-on. It prepares you for internships and field experience. It also helps you get into graduate school where you can earn a master’s degree in other animal degrees online. One such degree is the animal behavior degree online.
Schools offering a bachelor’s degree in this field: Unity College
#19 – Online Bachelor’s Degree in Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Pre-veterinary medicine is a standalone pre-professional degree. It can also be a series of courses you take to meet requirements for admission to veterinary school.
As an undergraduate student, you take many science classes. They cover animal behavior and health topics. You also take general science classes such as:
- Biology
- Cell biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics
Most schools do not offer a stand-alone degree in pre-veterinary medicine. But they do let you major in a science and meet the requirements of veterinary programs. A pre-vet program can also help you earn other animal degrees in graduate programs.
Schools offering this type of degree program: Arizona State University
#20 – Online Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedicine
A biomedical degree can act as a gateway to veterinarian school. It can also get you into other fields of medicine. If you’re interested in attending vet school, a biomedicine degree can help.
This degree gives students a background in biology. Biomed courses focus on both animals and humans. Courses cover basic sciences, but emphasize anatomy. This is helpful for graduate studies (master’s degree) in animal health or veterinary medicine.
Basic science classes in a biomed program include:
- Anatomy
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Physiology
Schools offering online degrees: Beal University
Careers You Can Get With These Degrees
A zoology or animal science degree can lead to many careers working directly with animals or studying wildlife and ecosystems. Graduates often work in research, conservation, agriculture, or veterinary medicine.
Some common careers include:
Zoologist
Zoologists study animals in their natural environments. They conduct research on animal behavior, genetics, and ecosystems.
Wildlife Biologist
Wildlife biologists study how animals interact with their environments and help develop conservation strategies.
Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study ocean ecosystems and aquatic species such as fish, marine mammals, and coral reefs.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat medical conditions in animals. Many students pursue veterinary school after completing an undergraduate degree in animal science or biology.
Animal Trainer
Animal trainers work with animals in zoos, aquariums, film productions, and training facilities.
Conservation Scientist
These professionals work to protect wildlife habitats and develop conservation programs.
Park Ranger
Park rangers work in national and state parks managing wildlife areas and educating the public about conservation.
Zoo Curator or Zookeeper
Zookeepers care for animals in zoos and wildlife parks while monitoring health and behavior.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many careers in wildlife biology and conservation require a bachelor’s degree in zoology, biology, or environmental science.
Zoology and Animal Career Salaries
Salaries vary depending on education level, specialization, and employer. Many careers in zoology and animal science require fieldwork or research experience.
Here are typical salary ranges for common animal-related careers.
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Zoologist / Wildlife Biologist | ~$67,430 |
| Veterinarian | ~$119,100 |
| Conservation Scientist | ~$68,750 |
| Animal Trainer | ~$39,000 |
| Veterinary Technician | ~$43,740 |
| Park Ranger | ~$47,000 |
These salary estimates are based on national data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Higher salaries are often available for professionals with graduate degrees or specialized research experience.
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- What Is the Best Degree Path for Becoming a Veterinary Technologist?