Explore the Best Colleges for Zoology and Animal Science Degrees
If you're passionate about animals, biology, and conservation, majoring in animal science or zoology is a strong academic path. Choosing the right college program can open doors to careers in veterinary medicine, wildlife research, zoology, and conservation biology.
The United States offers some of the world’s top programs for students who want to study animal behavior, animal physiology, animal genetics, and wildlife ecology. Whether you're aiming for hands-on fieldwork or advanced research roles, here's a list of top institutions offering strong zoology and animal science programs.
Top-Ranked Colleges for Animal Science and Zoology Majors
These colleges are widely recognized for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and connections to animal care and veterinary science careers.
1. University of California, Davis
- Best known for veterinary science and animal biology
- Home to one of the top veterinary schools in the world
- Offers majors in Animal Science and Zoology
- Strong emphasis on animal physiology and agricultural biology
UC Davis provides access to cutting-edge animal research centers, including livestock facilities, equine sciences, and wildlife health. Its faculty are leaders in animal genetics, animal health, and environmental science.
2. Cornell University
- Located in Ithaca, New York
- Offers a competitive Animal Science program through the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Students can specialize in animal nutrition, physiology, or pre-vet tracks
- Access to world-class research labs and veterinary school
Cornell's integrated approach bridges classroom learning with lab and field research. It's ideal if you're seeking veterinary school or advanced biological sciences training.
3. University of Florida
- Offers top-ranked programs in Zoology and Animal Sciences
- Department of Biology houses courses in animal behavior and evolutionary biology
- Home to the Florida Museum of Natural History and extensive research in marine and wildlife studies
UF combines practical agricultural science with expansive zoological research. It's a top college if you're interested in tropical ecology, animal welfare, or zoo science.
4. Texas A&M University
- One of the largest Animal Science departments in the U.S.
- Focus on livestock production, animal nutrition, and breeding
- State-of-the-art veterinary school and animal research facilities
Known for its strengths in animal agriculture, Texas A&M is ideal if you're considering pre-vet studies, large-animal research, or careers in animal industries.
5. Michigan State University
- College of Agriculture and Natural Resources offers degrees in Animal Science and Zoology
- Research opportunities in animal health, nutrition, and reproductive biology
- Access to veterinary programs and field-based internships
MSU is known for launching careers in both research and applied veterinary science. Its diverse coursework prepares you for graduate school or hands-on roles in zoos, wildlife rehabilitation, or animal husbandry.
What to Look for in a Zoology or Animal Science Program
- Faculty research in areas like animal genetics, ecology, and conservation
- University animal facilities, including farms, wildlife centers, or lab animal facilities
- Access to internships with zoos, aquariums, research labs, and conservation groups
- Strong pre-vet or pre-graduate advising programs
Choosing a major in animal science or zoology should include consideration of your future career path. Whether it's veterinary school, wildlife management, or research science, look for programs that align with those goals.
Careers with an Animal Science or Zoology Degree
Your degree can open the door to a variety of rewarding careers. Many students use the degree as a stepping stone to veterinary school or graduate programs in biology or wildlife science. Others go directly into animal-focused careers such as:
- Wildlife biologist
- Zoo educator or zookeeper
- Veterinary technician or assistant
- Animal nutritionist
- Conservation scientist
- Livestock manager or agricultural consultant
These roles may require certifications or graduate education, but a bachelor's in zoology or animal sciences gives you a solid biological foundation.
Best States for Zoology and Animal Sciences Degrees
Some states offer more robust programs and field opportunities based on ecosystems and animal industries. States with strong programs and industry connections include:
- California – marine biology, conservation, veterinary science
- Texas – livestock industries, veterinary research
- Florida – marine ecosystems, tropical wildlife
- New York – access to vet schools, wildlife education
- Ohio and Minnesota – agricultural animal sciences
Studying in these areas may give you greater internship access and job prospects after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Science Majors
Is Zoology the same as Animal Science?
No. Zoology is more focused on the biological and behavioral aspects of animals, especially wildlife and animals in natural ecosystems. Animal Science focuses on domesticated animals and livestock, emphasizing nutrition, breeding, and care in agricultural settings. Both majors offer strong foundations in animal biology.
What degree do I need to become a wildlife biologist?
Most wildlife biologists start with a bachelor’s degree in zoology, wildlife biology, or a similar biological science. Graduate school is often required for research or advanced positions. Fieldwork, internships, and GIS training are also valuable.
Which college has the largest enrollment in the U.S.?
As of the 2023–24 academic year, Texas A&M University in College Station has the highest enrollment of any individual campus in the U.S., with approximately 77,491 students. It is followed by the University of Central Florida at around 69,316 students.
Do I need a master’s degree after majoring in animal science?
A master’s degree can help if you're seeking specialized research, teaching, or leadership roles. For veterinary school, you'll need a separate Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM). For careers in wildlife biology, a master's can increase your job prospects or salary.
