Master of Science in Zoology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on a comprehensive Master of Science in Zoology at Southern Illinois University, designed for aspiring scientists passionate about understanding the diversity and complexity of animal life. This postgraduate program immerses you in critical areas such as conservation biology, systematic biology, and comparative animal physiology, preparing you to address pressing ecological challenges and advance scientific knowledge. You will join a vibrant academic community dedicated to rigorous research and exploration, making this an ideal pathway for those seeking to deepen their expertise in zoological sciences and contribute meaningfully to the field.

This full-time, on-campus Master of Science in Zoology is structured over two years, requiring a minimum of 30 graduate credit hours. Your studies will involve in-depth coursework, including specialized modules like parasitology and limnology, alongside dedicated research. You will develop essential research skills by preparing and defending a thesis based on original investigation, culminating in a public seminar and a closed oral defense. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in wildlife management, ecological consulting, research institutions, and further doctoral studies, equipped with advanced analytical and research capabilities.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Zoology program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide advanced knowledge in the field. Students will engage with a wide array of elective courses covering diverse areas such as systematic biology, conservation biology, toxicology, and various aspects of wildlife and aquatic management. The program also includes a significant research component, culminating in a thesis or dissertation, allowing students to delve deeply into specific zoological topics.

1 Thesis

2 Elective Courses

Bee identification short course
Systematic biology
Parasitology
Herpetology
Conservation biology
Environmental risk assessment
The invertebrates
Freshwater invertebrates
Limnology
Invertebrate paleontology and paleoecology
Comparative endocrinology
Principles of toxicology
Comparative animal physiology
Pollination ecology
Plant and animal molecular genetics laboratory
Ecological analysis of communities
Multiple stressors in ecology
Mammalogy
Waterfowl ecology and management (lecture)
Waterfowl ecology and management (laboratory)
Wildlife administration and policy
Ichthyology
Fish management
Ornithology
Wildlife biology principles
Wildlife techniques
Entomology
Introduction to systems biology
Aquaculture
Animal behavior
Special topics in zoology
Energetics, food webs, and ecosystems
Wildlife administration and management constituencies
Evolutionary biology
Stream ecology
Wildlife diseases
Aquatic toxicology
Wildlife habitat analysis
Quantitative zoogeography
Spatial analysis in ecology
Stable isotopes in ecology
Evolution in the anthropocene
Analysis of vertebrate populations
Phylogenetics
Biostatistics
Advanced biostatistics
Analytical techniques in toxicology
Aquaculture techniques
Environmental physiology of fish
Fisheries stock assessment
Advanced fisheries management
Advanced aquaculture
Fish reproduction and breeding
Physiological ecology
Internship in wildlife administration and management
Seminar in ecology
Population ecology
Population genetics
Molecular genetics techniques
Current topics in evolution
Zoological literature
Graduate zoology seminar
Conservation genetics
Seminar: reasoning in ecology
Seminar in parasitology
Seminar in selected topics
Fisheries seminar
Wildlife seminar
Zoology colloquium
Individual research
Research
Advanced zoological techniques
Research paper
Research and thesis
Research and dissertation
Continuing enrollment
Postdoctoral research

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,170.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 56,340.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,950.00 - USD 2,250.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Carbondale campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

53%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Agricultural Marketing & SalesAgricultural Research & DevelopmentAgrochemical & Seed IndustryCrop Production & FarmingDrug Discovery & ResearchEnergy Equipment & ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementPublic Health & EpidemiologySports & AthleticsSupply Chain & Commodity Trading

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AbbVie

Amgen

Bayer

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Eli Lilly and Company

Monsanto Company

Thermo Fisher Scientific

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

Why Study Master of Science in Zoology at Southern Illinois University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Southern Illinois University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Southern Illinois University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Master of Science in Zoology at Southern Illinois University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the term and full-time during breaks. Work on campus requires no additional permits, while off-campus work needs approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English proficiency requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with varying score thresholds for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Wildlife Biologist, Aquatic Scientist, Research Coordinator, Conservation Officer, and Zoology Professor.

What will I actually study in this course?

This M.S. program offers a blend of rigorous coursework and research opportunities in areas like wildlife research and aquatic sciences. Students can choose between a traditional master's track with a thesis or a professional degree that includes internships.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Master of Science in Zoology program has intakes in January and August. Make sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your place.
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