Thursday 17 May 2012

Online Degrees in Zoology with Summaries of At-Home Programs

Degree programs in the biological sciences field of zoology are not usually offered online. However, students interested in distance learning may be able complete some basic classes in the curriculum online.

Online Bachelor of Science in Zoology Summary

A bachelor's degree program in zoology includes in-depth and hands-on study of animals, plants, and marine life through laboratory classes in biology and chemistry. Additionally, universities require zoology students to dedicate a large amount of time to field work; given this, degree programs in zoology aren't generally offered fully online. However, some schools offer a small selection of core courses through distance learning.

Program Information and Requirements

Students enrolled in a degree program in zoology, which typically takes four years, must take most of their courses on campus since many have a laboratory component along with a lecture section. Zoology curricula involve hands-on interaction with animals in which students learn caretaking and safe handling procedures, as well as laboratory studies involving the analysis and study of the biological and chemical makeup of animals and plants.
While most classes must be completed on campus, some basic science courses are offered online. To pursue at-home study, candidates need access to a computer and the Internet, preferably high-speed. A program for viewing online audio and video presentations is required. Word processing and printing capabilities are also needed for certain classes.

List of Available Online Zoology Courses

Zoology programs entail significant study in the biological and chemical sciences. Other areas of study include mathematics and physics.

Ecology Course

Students enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in zoology take a course in basic ecology, which is offered online by certain schools. This course covers plant and animal interactions with the environment, community and ecosystem ecology, population principles and global sustainability.

Genetics Course

This online course covers the basic principles of heredity in animals, plants and microorganisms. Students also learn about gene structure, gene transmission and evolution.

Neurobiology Course

A class in neurobiology is available online by some schools to third and fourth year students. Students learn about the function and structure of nerve cells and nervous systems.

Career Information for Graduates

Job growth for biological scientists is promising; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has projected a 21% growth over the 2008-2018 decade (www.bls.gov). Increased awareness and the need for scientists to study and help with the growing number of environmental concerns have led to an influx of jobs in this field. Some possible career paths for bachelor's degree graduates include animal caretaker, biology assistant, park naturalist, veterinary technician and zookeeper.

Continuing Education Information

While there are many jobs available for graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, many individuals continue their education to obtain a master's or doctoral degree, while others continue on to veterinary school. Advanced degrees are helpful for those wishing to work as wildlife biologists, researchers, wildlife educators or animal experts. According to BLS, administrative and independent research positions for biological scientists generally require a Ph.D.

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