Beyond the Classroom: Environmental Biology / Zoology
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
Designed to introduce students to the concepts of environmental biology and apply them to unravel problems associated with the natural environment. The program focuses on animal-related aspects of environmental biology and the courses emphasize ecology, systematics, and environmental science.
Skills and Competencies
- Ecological & Environmental Analysis- Complete analysis informed by foundational knowledge in biology, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental science
- Anatomy & Physiology – Knowledge of anatomical structures and physiological processes of organisms
- Interdisciplinary Integration – Integrate knowledge from various biological and environmental disciplines to address complex ecological and conservation problems
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You want to study a broad range of biological and environmental science subject areas
- You are interested in wildlife management, conservation biology, environmental policy, zoology, and more
- You want to choose electives in areas like marine biology, conservation genetics, and more
Common Questions
Do I have to go to graduate school?
No. The Environmental Biology/Zoology degree prepares you for a fulfilling career without graduate school, though many students do pursue graduate school for higher level jobs in the field. Explore career pathways early and gain experience so you have a clear vision for your career after graduation.
What makes this major unique?
Environmental Biology/Zoology considers both organisms and their environments. Students are able to chart their own path by selecting courses that explore various subjects within geography, type of organism, and social issues.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Zoological Student Association, Herpetology Club, and the Birding Club
Education Abroad Ideas
Conservation Medicine in New Zealand
- 10 weeks | Spring
- Faculty Led
Behavioral Ecology of African Mammals
- 3 weeks | Summer
- Faculty Led
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Wildlife & Conservation Biology
Careers
- Wildlife biologist
- Conservation Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Park Ranger
- Marine Biologist
Key Employers
- Parks services
- Wildlife centers
- Rehabilitation centers
- Zoos and aquariums
- Non-profit environmental organizations
- Federal, state, and local environmental agencies
- Federal, state, and local conservation agencies
- Colleges or universities
Strategies
- Join and engage in related student organizations or student chapters of professional organizations
- Seek hands on experience to refine career goals and become a competitive job candidate
- Plan to gain related part-time jobs, internships, or volunteer
experiences - Align coursework with your areas of interest
Environmental & Ecological Research
Careers
- Ecologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Research Assistant
- Field Researcher
- Laboratory Technician
Key Employers
- Research universities and academic institutions
- Private research laboratories
- Government research agencies
- Non-governmental organizations
- Environmental consulting firms
Strategies
- Explore further education at the master’s or Ph.D. level
- Gain laboratory experience through coursework and faculty-led research projects
- Learn laboratory procedures and practice using equipment
- Maintain grades and get to know your faculty
- Consider taking coursework in statistics and data analysis
Environmental Policy & Management
Careers
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Natural Resource Manager
- Environmental Planner
- Environmental Educator
- Sustainability Coordinator
Key Employers
- Environmental advocacy organizations
- Consulting firms
- Urban and regional planning departments
- State and federal government
- Advocacy organizations
- Law firms
- Museums
- Schools
- Corporate sustainability departments
Strategies
- Consider taking courses in environmental policy, law, and economics
- Seek related experience through internships or volunteering
- Join and engage in related clubs or student government on campus
- Explore opportunities early in order to prepare for your career before graduation
Looking for more options?