The full form of MSc Zoology is Master of Science in Zoology. It is a two-year postgraduate course. MSc Zoology is the branch of Biology that focuses on the study of all animals, their structure, physiology, behavior, classification, and distribution.
Related Article: What is MSc?
Admission into this course is done on both a merit and entrance basis. MSc Zoology entrance exam includes DUET, BHU PET, TISS NET etc. MSc Zoology eligibility is a BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialization with a minimum of 50% marks. The fee for an MSc in Zoology is INR 10,000 – 5 Lakhs. Some of the top MSc Zoology colleges are Hindu College, Miranda House, Loyola College, and Madras Christian College.
The MSc Zoology syllabus includes topics on Animal Physiology, Immunology, Genetics and Evolution, Animal Diversity, Animal Ecology, and Reproductive Biology. MSc Zoology subjects include Animal Behavior, Parasitology, Mammalogy, Comparative Anatomy, Endocrinology and Marine Biology.
MSc Zoology jobs include Research Scientist, Ecologist, Zoo Curator, Animal Behaviorist, Environmental Consultant, etc. MSc Zoology salary ranges from INR 3 – 6 LPA. Some of the top recruiters for this course are the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), and the Ministry of Environment.
More MSc Courses:
MSc Zoology: Course Highlights
Details | Particulars |
Course Name | MSc Zoology |
Course Level | Postgraduate |
Course Full Form | Master of Science in Zoology |
Course Duration | 2 Years |
Course Types | Full-time/Distance Education |
Admission Process | Merit and Entrance Based. |
Eligibility Criteria | BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialization with a minimum of 50% marks. |
Entrance Exams | |
Course Fees | INR 10,000 – 5 Lakhs |
Top Colleges | Hindu College, Miranda House, Loyola College, and Madras Christian College. |
Average Salary in India | INR 3 – 6 LPA |
Job Profiles | Research Scientist, Ecologist, Zoo Curator, Animal Behaviorist, Environmental Consultant. |
Top Recruiters | Wildlife Institute of India (WII), World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), and Ministry of Environment. |
What is MSc Zoology?
The branch of biology that studies the animal kingdom, their habits, lifecycle, ecological interaction, and adaptability is known as MSc Zoology. This course is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in various aspects of zoology, including animal diversity, anatomy, physiology, ecology, behavior, genetics, evolution, and conservation.
Why pursue an MSc in Zoology?
MSc Zoology allows an in-depth study of the animal kingdom, their behavior, anatomy, physiology, and evolution. There are several reasons why pursuing an MSc Zoology degree in India might be a wise choice. Below are some of the factors:
- Passion for Animals: An individual who has true love and passion for animals will benefit a lot from studying this course as it helps to gain a better understanding of the animal kingdom while also contributing to its conservation and well-being.
- Career Opportunities: After the completion of this course, students have a wide range of career opportunities. They can choose to work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, non-profit organizations, wildlife conservation organizations, zoos, pharmaceutical companies, and environmental consulting firms.
- Personal Development: Studying zoology improves critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills, and these abilities are transportable and beneficial in a variety of professional settings.
- Contribution to Society: By studying MSc Zoology, an individual makes a difference in broader societal challenges like conservation, biodiversity protection, climate change, and sustainable development through thorough awareness of animals and their ecosystems.
Who Should Pursue an MSc Zoology?
MSc Zoology is the perfect course for people who are passionate about animals and want to learn more about them. However, it might be a good fit for the following potential candidates:
- Students who have a BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialization with a minimum of 50% marks.
- People who have a genuine love for animals and are curious about their behavior, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolution.
- Individuals with a strong aptitude for scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and data analysis are well-suited for this program.
MSc Zoology: Course Duration
The duration of MSc Zoology in India is 2 years, which is divided into 4 semesters. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the university or institution offering the course. MSc Zoology distance education programs may have a longer duration, up to 5 years, compared to the regular full-time course.
MSc Zoology: Course Types
MSc Zoology is offered to students in two modes: full-time or via distance education.
- MSc Zoology Full-time: This course is designed systematically and provides both theoretical and practical knowledge to the students. To build a strong foundation in MSc Zoology, various aspects of the animal kingdom, their anatomy, physiology, and evolution are taught.
- MSc Zoology Distance Education: This option is available for students who cannot pursue this course on a full-time basis and require flexibility in choosing their study time. Throughout the program, students will engage in laboratory work, fieldwork, and research projects, allowing them to develop practical skills and gain hands-on experience in biological sciences.
MSc Zoology: Distance Education
MSc Zoology distance education is a feasible option for students who are working professionals or are unable to pursue the course regularly. Given below are some of the key highlights of this course:
- Candidates who have a BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialization with a minimum of 50% marks.
- MSc Zoology distance education in India generally takes 2 years to complete, although some universities may offer longer-duration programs.
- The MSc Zoology distance education curriculum is the same as a full-time course and covers topics related to animals and their behavior, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolution.
- The study material for a distance education program in India is provided through printed books, e-books, and online resources.
- Students are required to complete assignments and appear for exams as part of the MSc Zoology distance education program.
Some of the top colleges and universities offering MSc Zoology distance education, along with their fees are given below:
Name of the College/University | Course Fees |
INR 10,000 | |
INR 4,400 | |
INR 10,550 | |
INR 36,000 | |
INR 10,650 |
MSc Zoology: Fees
MSc Zoology Fees is INR 10,000 – 5 Lakhs. Given below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities offering this course along with their fees:
Name of the College/University | Location | Average Annual Fees |
New Delhi | INR 19,710 | |
New Delhi | INR 16,170 | |
Chennai | INR 11,820 | |
Coimbatore | INR 66, 200 | |
Varanasi | INR 6,114 | |
Kolkata | INR 24,000 | |
Hyderabad | INR 3,420 | |
Bangalore | INR 75,000 | |
Kolkata | INR 68,534 | |
Chennai | INR 12,285 |
MSc Zoology: Admission Process
It is highly recommended that aspirants score well in their undergraduate examinations or prepare well for the entrance exam. Below is an overview of both modes of admission:
Related Article: MSc Admission 2024: Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Colleges, Fees, and Scope
MSc Zoology Admission: Merit-Based
- An aspirant should score more than 50% in their undergraduate examinations to be eligible for merit-based admission.
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents (10th and 12th certificates, undergraduate degree, Aadhar card, photographs, etc.) in hand.
- Merit lists are usually updated on the official website of the colleges and need to be checked regularly by the aspirant.
- If selected, the aspirant can pay the required fees and the admissions process will be complete.
- Finally, candidates must attend the counseling or orientation organized by the institution for further details if selected from the merit list.
MSc Zoology Admission: Entrance-Based
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- The application form will require the candidates to register themselves with an email ID, password, and mobile number, along with academic and course details.
- The candidate is required to upload the necessary documents online, such as Photograph, 10th and 12th Certificates, Undergraduate degrees, Aadhar Card, etc.)
- Once the form is complete, the candidate will be asked to pay a minimal application fee.
- It is advised to check the website regularly for updates on the admit card, entrance exam, and entrance exam syllabus.
- Admit cards will be issued to all the eligible students, which will have important information such as the date of the examination, examination center, and timings.
- The college or university will then publish lists according to their cutoffs and seat availability.
- If selected, a candidate should pay the course fee as soon as possible and attend the orientation or counseling organized by the college for further information.
MSc Zoology: Eligibility
- A BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialization with a minimum of 50% marks.
- There is no minimum or maximum age for this course.
MSc Zoology: Entrance Exams
The MSc Zoology entrance exam in India is often composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and normally lasts 2-3 hours, with the total number of questions and marks varying depending on the institution. In some colleges, there might be negative markings as well.
Given below are the details of some of the entrance exams conducted by various universities:
Name of the Entrance Exam | Registration Dates | Exam Dates |
Phase 1: April 2024 Phase 2: May 2024 | Phase 1: May 2024 Phase 2: June 2024 | |
February 2024 | March 11th – 28th, 2024 | |
September 5th – October 25th 2024 | February 11th, 2024 | |
To be announced | To be announced |
Further Reading: MSc Entrance Exams in India
MSc Zoology: Entrance Exam Syllabus
The MSc Zoology Entrance Exam syllabus may vary slightly depending on the college or university. However, here are some common topics that are usually included in the syllabus:
Subjects | Topics |
Cell Biology | Cell structure and function, cell cycle, cell division, organelles, cell signaling, and cellular processes. |
Genetics and Evolution | Mendelian genetics, molecular genetics, population genetics, gene expression, genetic variations, evolutionary mechanisms, and principles of evolution. |
Animal Physiology | Structure and function of different systems in animals, including digestive, respiratory, circulatory, excretory, nervous, sensory, and endocrine systems. |
Evolutionary Biology | Theories of evolution, natural selection, speciation, phylogenetics, evolutionary patterns, and evolutionary genetics. |
Animal Diversity | Classification and characteristics of various animal groups, including protozoa, porifera, cnidaria, Platyhelminthes, Annelida, Mollusca, Arthropoda, Echinodermata, Chordata, and others. |
Animal Behavior | Behavioral ecology, ethology, communication, social behavior, mating systems, foraging behavior, and animal cognition. |
Biochemistry | Basic principles of biochemistry, biomolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, lipids), enzymes, metabolism, and energy production. |
Ecology | Principles of ecology, ecosystem structure and function, population dynamics, community ecology, biodiversity, conservation biology, and environmental issues. |
Developmental Biology | Fertilization, embryonic development, organogenesis, metamorphosis, regeneration, and developmental processes in animals. |
Biotechnology | Principles of biotechnology, genetic engineering, molecular biology techniques, applications of biotechnology in agriculture, medicine, and industry. |
Immunology | Immune system components, innate and adaptive immunity, immune response, antigen-antibody interactions, immunological techniques, and immunological disorders. |
MSc Zoology: Subjects
MSc Zoology subjects may differ from one college to another. Nevertheless, given below is a list of potential subjects in MSc Zoology that students will study:
MSc Zoology Subjects: 1st Year | |
Cell Biology and Molecular Biology | Genetics and Evolution |
Animal Physiology | Animal Diversity |
Research Methodology and Techniques | Biochemistry |
Ecology | Environmental Science |
MSc Zoology Subjects: 2nd Year | |
Developmental Biology | Biotechnology |
Evolutionary Biology | Immunology |
Animal Behavior | Research Project |
Elective Subjects | Dissertation |
Also Read: MSc Subjects and Syllabus
MSc Zoology: Syllabus
The course is divided into 4 semesters, which must be covered in 2 years. The syllabus of MSc Zoology will vary from college to college; however, a brief overview of the syllabus is given in the following tables:
Further Reading: MSc Zoology Syllabus
MSc Zoology Syllabus: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Structure and Functions of Non-chordates | Structure and Functions of Chordates |
Genetics and Genetic Engineering | Endocrinology and Neuroscience |
Parasites and Immunity | Biochemistry and Molecular Biology |
Ecological Theories and Applications | Comparative Animal Physiology |
Tissue Structure Function and Chemistry | Cell and Receptor Biology |
Laboratory Course | Laboratory Course |
MSc Zoology Syllabus: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Taxonomy and Biodiversity | Conservation Biology and Wildlife |
Development and Differentiation | Biotechnology and Applications |
Elective I Theory | Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, and Instrumentation |
Evolution and Animal Behavior | Laboratory Course (1 module) |
Laboratory Course | Elective II Theory |
Elective I Practical | Elective II Practical |
MSc Zoology: Top Colleges
Some of the top colleges offering MSc Zoology, along with their fees, are given below:
Name of the College/University | Location | Average Annual Fees |
New Delhi | INR 19,710 | |
Noida | INR 2,00,000 | |
Faridabad | INR 59,000 | |
New Delhi | INR 16,170 | |
Meerut | INR 30,000 | |
Chennai | INR 11,820 | |
Coimbatore | INR 66, 200 | |
Meerut | INR 70,000 | |
Varanasi | INR 6,114 | |
Kolkata | INR 24,000 | |
Hyderabad | INR 3,420 | |
Gurugram | INR 1,00,000 | |
Bangalore | INR 75,000 | |
Kolkata | INR 68,534 | |
Chennai | INR 12,285 |
MSc Zoology: Recommended Books
Given below are the names of some recognized books along with their authors in the field of Zoology that a candidate must read to gain further knowledge in the course:
Name of the Book | Author's Name |
Marine Biology | B.R. Subramanian |
A Textbook of Animal Diversity | Ramesh Gupta |
Wildlife Conservation in India" | B.C. Choudhury |
Animal Behavior | S. Immanuel |
Invertebrate Zoology | E.L. Jordan and Dr. P.S. Verma |
Principles of Animal Taxonomy | S.S. Tandon |
Animal Physiology | V.K. Agarwal |
MSc Zoology: Jobs
There are various jobs after an MSc Zoology degree in India. Some of the popular job profiles, along with their descriptions, are given below:
Job Profile | Job Description |
Wildlife Biologist | A Wildlife Biologist studies and manages wildlife populations, habitats, and conservation. They usually work for environmental organizations behavior, national parks, or animal reserves. |
Research Scientist | A Research Scientist conducts scientific research and studies on the many facets of animal biology, behavior, ecology, or conservation in research institutions, universities, or governmental organizations. |
Zoo Curator/Manager | A Zoo Curator or Manager is responsible for overseeing the management and care of the animals housed there, as well as their well-being, breeding plans, and habitat enrichment. |
Environmental Consultant | Environmental Consultants provide knowledge on protecting species and ecosystems, evaluate environmental impact, and offer guidance on environmentally friendly methods in sectors like mining, building, or energy. |
Scientific Writer | A Scientific Writer combines their knowledge of zoology with strong communication skills to write scientific articles, blogs, or educational material, or work as a science journalist or communicator. |
Environmental Teacher | An Environmental Teacher teaches and raises awareness about wildlife conservation and environmental issues in educational institutions, nature centers, museums, or non-profit organizations. |
Further Reading: MSc Jobs
MSc Zoology: Salary
Given below are the MSc Zoology jobs along with their respective salaries:
Job Profile | Average Salary |
Wildlife Biologist | INR 2 – 5 LPA |
Research Scientist | INR 3 – 16 LPA |
Zoo Curator/Manager | INR 3 – 8 LPA |
Environmental Consultant | INR 2 – 6 LPA |
Scientific Writer | INR 2 – 11 LPA |
Environmental Teacher | INR 3 – 6 LPA |
MSc Zoology: Top Recruiters
After completing an MSc Zoology, graduates can apply to private and public sector companies for job opportunities. Given below is a list of the top recruiters for this course:
Recruiter's Name | Average Salary |
Wildlife Institute of India (WII) | INR 16 LPA |
Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) | INR 3.7 LPA |
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) | INR 2 – 8 LPA |
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) | INR 3.5 LPA |
Forest Departments (of various state governments) | INR 8 LPA |
National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) | INR 5 LPA |
MSc Zoology: Scope
MSc Zoology scope includes various further study options for graduates in India. Some of the popular ones are:
- PhD in Zoology
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree