Program Overview

Animal Biology Program

The Animal Biology program at the University of California, Davis, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of biological principles as they apply to animals. This major bridges the gap between general biological sciences and applied animal husbandry techniques, offering students the opportunity to work with both wild and domesticated animals in hands-on situations.

Major Requirements

The Animal Biology major requires lower division preparation in science, calculus, and statistics. Students will also take courses in the application of biological principles to animals in natural and agricultural systems. At the upper division, students will deepen their knowledge of biology and its application to animals, choosing electives in areas of special interest. A special feature of this major is the senior practicum, in which students design and carry out an individual creative project that integrates their coursework and practical experiences, serving as a capstone to their major.

Careers

Graduates of the Animal Biology program can pursue a variety of careers, including:

• Epidemiologist
• Fisheries/Wildlife Biologist
• Geneticist/Molecular Biologist
• Physician
• Professor
• Research Scientist
• Teacher
• Veterinarian
• Zookeeper/Zoo Manager

Graduate Study

The program also prepares students for graduate study in fields such as:

• Animal behavior
• Veterinary medicine
• Medicine
• Public health
• Genetics

Alumni Employers

Alumni of the Animal Biology program have been employed by organizations such as:

• Texas Department of Health
• National Park Service
• Interpath Laboratory, Inc.
• Escient Pharmaceuticals
• University of California, Davis

Related Degrees

Related degrees to the Animal Biology program include:

• Animal Science
• Biological Sciences
• Wildlife, Fish and Conservation Biology

Program Features

The program offers various features that enhance the student experience, including:

• Internship opportunities
• A detailed course roadmap to guide students through their program
• The opportunity to work directly with faculty through research projects and labs
• Global learning programs, including study abroad options
• Undergraduate research opportunities
• Resources to help students connect their major to career opportunities.