MSc Zoology: Course, Colleges, Eligibility, Admissions, Subjects, Syllabus, Jobs, Scope 2023 | CollegeSearch

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MSc Zoology: Course, Colleges, Eligibility, Admissions, Subjects, Syllabus, Jobs, Scope 2023

Course

Simran Kaur

Updated on 10th November, 2023 , 10 min read

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, behaviour, classification, and distribution.

Related Article: What is MSc?

Admission into this course is done on both merit and entrance basis. MSc Zoology entrance exam includes DUET, BHU PET and TISS NET etc. MSc Zoology eligibility is a BSc degree in Zoology, Biology, Medical Science, Allied Science, Bioscience, or any Life Science specialisation with a minimum of 50% marks. The fees for MSc Zoology is INR 10,000 – 5 Lakhs. Some of the top MSc Zoology are Hindu CollegeMiranda HouseLoyola College, and Madras Christian College among others.

Further Reading: BSc Biology

MSc Zoology syllabus includes topics on Animal Physiology, Immunology, Genetics and Evolution, Animal Diversity, Animal Ecology and Reproductive Biology. MSc Zoology subjects include Animal Behaviour, Parasitology, Mammalogy, Comparative Anatomy, Endocrinology and Marine Biology.

MSc Zoology jobs include Research Scientist, Ecologist, Zoo Curator, Animal Behaviourist, 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 Ministry of Environment.

More MSc Courses:

MSc Physics

MSc Psychology

MSc Nutrition and Dietetics

MSc Food Technology

MSc Sports and Event Management

MSc Computer Science

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 specialisation with a minimum of 50% marks.

Entrance Exams

DUET, BHU PET and TISS NET

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 Behaviourist, 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.

msc-zoology

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, behaviour, genetics, evolution, and conservation.

Why pursue MSc Zoology?

MSc Zoology allows an in-depth study of the animal kingdom, their behaviour, anatomy, physiology, and evolution. There are several factors why pursuing a MSc Zoology degree in India might be a wise choice. Given 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 better understanding of the animal kingdom while also contributing to its conservation and wellbeing.
  • 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 by thorough awareness of animals and their ecosystems.

Who Should pursue 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 specialisation with a minimum of 50% marks.
  • People who have a genuine love for animals and are curious about their behaviour, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and evolution.
  • Individuals who have 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 that can be pursued full-time or via distance education.  

  • MSc Zoology Full-time: This course is designed in a systematic way 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 specialisation 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.
  • MSc Zoology distance education curriculum is the same as a full-time course and covers topics related to animals and their behaviour, 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 programme.

Some of the top Colleges/Universities offering MSc Zoology distance education along with their fees is given below: 

Name of the College/University

Course Fees

Indira Gandhi National Open University

INR 10,000

Nalanda Open University

INR 4,400

Tamil Nadu Open University

INR 10,550

Netaji Subhas Open University

INR 36,000

Bharathiar University

INR 10,650

MSc Zoology: Fees

MSc Zoology Fees is INR 10,000 – 5 Lakhs. Given below is a list with some of the top Colleges/Universities offering this course along with their fees:

Name of the College/University

Location

Average Annual Fees

Hindu College

New Delhi

INR 19,710

Miranda House

New Delhi

INR 16,170

Loyola College

Chennai

INR 11,820

PSG College of Arts and Science

Coimbatore

INR 66, 200

Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi

INR 6,114

Jadavpur University

Kolkata

INR 24,000

University of Hyderabad

Hyderabad

INR 3,420

Christ University

Bangalore

INR 75,000

Lady Brabourne College

Kolkata

INR 68,534

Anna University

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. Given below is an overview of both the modes of admission:

Related Article: MSc Admission 2023: Eligibility, Entrance Exam, Colleges, Fees, and Scope

MSc Zoology Admission: Merit Based

  • An aspirant should score more than 50% marks in their undergraduate examinations to be applicable 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 admission process will be complete.  
  • Finally, candidates must attend the counseling or orientation organised 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 candidate 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 degree, Aadhar Card etc.)
  • Once the form is complete, the candidate will be asked to pay a minimal amount of 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/university will then publish lists according to their cutoff and seat availability.
  • If selected, a candidate should pay the course fee as soon as possible and attend the orientation/counselling 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 specialisation with a minimum of 50% marks.
  • There is no minimum or maximum age for this course.

MSc Zoology: Entrance Exams

MSc Zoology entrance exam in India is often composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and normally lasts 2-3 hours, with the total amount of questions and marks varying depending on the institution. In some colleges there might be negative marking as well.

Given below are the details of some of the entrance exams conducted by various universities:

Name of the Exam

Registration Date

Exam Dates

DUET

April 2023

July 2023

BHU PET

To be announced

To be announced

TISS NET

December 14 – January 15, 2023

January 28 – February 28, 2023

Further Reading: MSc Entrance Exams in India

MSc Zoology: Entrance Exam Syllabus

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 Behaviour

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 Behaviour

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 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 Behaviour

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 is given below:

Name of the College/University

Location

Average Annual Fees

Hindu College

New Delhi

INR 19,710

Amity University

Noida

INR 2,00,000

J. C. Bose University of Science and Technology

Faridabad

INR 59,000

Miranda House

New Delhi

INR 16,170

IIMT University

Meerut

INR 30,000

Loyola College

Chennai

INR 11,820

PSG College of Arts and Science

Coimbatore

INR 66, 200

Subharti University

Meerut

INR 70,000

Banaras Hindu University

Varanasi

INR 6,114

Jadavpur University

Kolkata

INR 24,000

University of Hyderabad

Hyderabad

INR 3,420

Starex University

Gurugram

INR 1,00,000

Christ University

Bangalore

INR 75,000

Lady Brabourne College

Kolkata

INR 68,534

Anna University

Chennai

INR 12,285

MSc Zoology: Recommended Books

Given below are the names of some recognised 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 Behaviour

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 a MSc Zoology degree in India. Some of the popular job profiles along with their description are given below:

Job Profile

Job Description

Wildlife Biologist

A Wildlife Biologist studies and manages wildlife population, habitats, and conservation. They usually work for environmental organisations, national parks, or animal reserves.

Research Scientist

A Research Scientist conducts scientific research and studies on the many facets of animal biology, behaviour, ecology, or conservation in research institutions, universities, or governmental organisations.

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 wellbeing, 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 organisations.

msc-zoology-jobs

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 MSc Zoology, graduates can apply to both private as well as public sector companies for job opportunities. Given below is a list of the top recruiters of 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

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