What is MSc Zoology?
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. The course is divided into 4 semesters, which must be covered in 2 years.
Related Articles: BSc Zoology, MSc Zoology
The syllabus For MSc Zoology 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.
Detailed Syllabus and Subjects: MSc Computer Science, MSc Math
More MSc Courses:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Overview
Core Courses:
- Advanced Animal Diversity and Taxonomy
- Animal Physiology and Adaptations
- Animal Behavior and Ethology
- Advanced Cell and Molecular Biology
- Genetics and Evolution
- Research Methodology and Biostatistics
Elective Courses (Specialization-dependent):
- Ecology And Environmental Science
- Developmental Biology
- Neurobiology
- Conservation Biology
- Immunology
- Marine Biology
- Entomology
- Parasitology
- Endocrinology
- Evolutionary Biology
Research Project:
- Independent Research Project Under the Guidance of a Faculty Member
- Conducting Experiments, Data Collection, Analysis, And Interpretation
- Dissertation Writing and Presentation
Practical and Field Work:
- Laboratory Practical Related to The Core and Elective Subjects
- Fieldwork For Data Collection, Biodiversity Surveys, And Ecological Studies
- Collection, Preservation, And Identification of Animal Specimens
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Semester-wise
The course is divided into 4 semesters, which must be covered in 2 years. The syllabus for MSc Zoology will vary from college to college; however, a brief overview of the syllabus is given in the following tables:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 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 |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 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 |
Further Reading: MSc Admission
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Year-wise
The syllabus for MSc Zoology year-wise may differ from one college to another. Nevertheless, given below is an overview of the syllabus for MSc Zoology that students will study:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Cell Biology and Molecular Biology | Genetics and Evolution |
Animal Physiology | Animal Diversity |
Research Methodology and Techniques | Biochemistry |
Ecology | Environmental Science |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Developmental Biology | Biotechnology |
Evolutionary Biology | Immunology |
Animal Behavior | Research Project |
Elective Subjects | Dissertation |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Subjects
The following subjects are typically included in the MSc Zoology syllabus:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Advanced Animal Physiology | Animal Behavior |
Comparative Anatomy | Ecology and Ecosystems |
Genetics and Molecular Biology | Biostatistics and Research Methodology |
Evolutionary Biology | Elective Subject (e.g., Endocrinology, Neurobiology, Ethology) |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Wildlife Biology and Conservation | Research Project/Dissertation |
Immunology | - |
Elective Subject (e.g., Aquatic Biology, Ornithology, Herpetology) | - |
Elective Subject (e.g., Parasitology, Marine Biology, Cell Biology) | - |
Must Read: MSc Subjects
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Distance Education
MSc Zoology distance education programs may offer the same courses as conventional full-time programs. However, the delivery and style of instruction can be changed to accommodate distance learning.
The following subjects are typically included in the MSc Zoology syllabus for distance education:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Advanced Animal Physiology | Evolutionary Biology |
Comparative Anatomy | Animal Behavior |
Genetics and Molecular Biology | Biostatistics and Research Methodology |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Ecology and Ecosystems | Elective Subject (e.g., Aquatic Biology, Ornithology, Herpetology) |
Wildlife Biology and Conservation | Elective Subject (e.g., Parasitology, Entomology, Cell Biology) |
Elective Subject (e.g., Endocrinology, Neurobiology, Ethology) | Research Project/Dissertation
|
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Lab Syllabus
Given below is a general overview of the topics that are commonly covered in the laboratory component of an MSc Zoology program in India:
Topics | Sub-topics |
Techniques in Zoology
| Microscopy Techniques and Slide Preparation Dissection Techniques and Specimen Preparation Microbiological Techniques Molecular Biology Techniques (PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, DNA Sequencing) Immunological Techniques (ELISA, Immunohistochemistry) |
Biochemical Analysis
| Protein Estimation Techniques Enzyme Assays and Kinetics Nucleic Acid Isolation and Quantification Chromatographic Techniques (Thin Layer Chromatography, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) |
Animal Physiology and Behavior
| Measurement Of Physiological Parameters (Respiration Rate, Heart Rate, Blood Pressure) Animal Behavior Experiments (Ethology, Choice Chamber Experiments) Endocrinology Experiments (Hormone Assays, Hormone Manipulation) |
Taxonomy and Systematics
| Taxonomic Identification of Animal Specimens Preparation of Taxonomic Keys Phylogenetic Analysis Using Molecular Data |
Ecology and Environmental Science
| Study Of Ecological Parameters (Population Density, Species Diversity) Analysis Of Abiotic Factors (Temperature, Ph, Dissolved Oxygen) Water And Soil Quality Assessment Biodiversity Surveys and Conservation Practices |
Cell and Developmental Biology
| Cell Culture Techniques Histological Techniques (Tissue Processing, Staining) Study Of Developmental Stages in Model Organisms |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Projects
MSc Zoology programs often include a research project or dissertation component where students can conduct independent research under the guidance of a faculty member. The specific projects can vary based on the research interests of the student and the available resources and expertise within the university. Here are some potential project areas in MSc Zoology:
Topic | Description |
Study of Animal Behavior
| Investigating specific behaviors in a particular species, such as mating behavior, foraging strategies, or social interactions. |
Ecology and Conservation
| Conducting field studies to understand population dynamics, habitat preferences, or the impact of environmental factors on wildlife populations. |
Physiology and Adaptation | Exploring physiological adaptations in animals, such as thermoregulation, osmoregulation, or morphological adaptations for specific environments. |
Molecular Genetics | Conducting genetic studies to investigate the genetic diversity, gene expression, or population genetics of different animal species. |
Disease Ecology
| Studying the interactions between pathogens and animal hosts, investigating disease transmission, or assessing the impact of diseases on wildlife populations. |
Evolutionary Biology | Investigating evolutionary relationships among species using molecular or morphological data. Studying speciation processes, phylogenetics, or evolutionary patterns and trends. |
Ethology and Animal Communication:
| Researching animal communication systems, studying vocalizations, chemical signals, or visual displays used in inter- or intra-species communication. |
Conservation Genetics | Applying genetic techniques to assess genetic diversity, gene flow, and population structure in endangered species or populations under threat. |
Marine Biology
| Studying marine ecosystems, focusing on marine organisms, their adaptations, behavior, or conservation. |
Wildlife Management | Designing and implementing management strategies for wildlife populations, considering factors such as habitat management, human-wildlife conflicts, or the sustainable use of natural resources. |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Entrance Exams
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. |
Also Read: MSc Entrance Exams 2024
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Delhi University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Delhi University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Genetics and Cytogenetics | Developmental Biology |
Principles of Gene Manipulation | Systematics, Biodiversity and Evolution |
Comparative Animal Physiology | Immunology |
Metabolism: Concepts and Regulation | Molecular Cell Biology |
Core Practical 1 | Core Practical 2 |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Principles of Ecology | Stream - 1 Entomology |
Computational Biology | Stream - 2 Fish Biology |
Elective course | Stream - 3 Genomes and Evolution |
Behavior of Social Animals (Open Elective) | Stream - 4 Molecular Endocrinology and Reproduction |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Calcutta University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Calcutta University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Non-Chordate Biology | Chordate Biology |
Ecological Theories | Developmental Biology |
Cell Biology | Immunology |
Genetics | Biochemistry and Genetic Engineering |
Parasitology | Endocrinology |
Insect Biology | Aquatic Biology |
Laboratory Course for Core Subjects | Laboratory Course for Core Subjects |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Taxonomy and Biostatistics | Applied Ecology |
Animal Behavior and Wildlife Biology | Evolution |
Laboratory Course for Core Subjects | Comparative Animal Physiology |
Elective Theory* | Laboratory Course for Core Subjects |
CBCC A | Lab Internship (Internal Assessment, Dissertation & Seminar) |
CBCC B | Grand Viva |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Amity University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Amity University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Evolution and Biogeography | Wildlife Research Methods |
Vegetation Science | Habitat Ecology |
Field Techniques for Wildlife | Ecosystem Ecology |
Human-Wildlife Conflicts | Behavioral Ecology |
Population and Community Ecology | Animal Physiology and Nutritional Ecology |
Invertebrates | Conservation Biology and Genetics |
Vertebrates | Wildlife Health |
Philosophy of Ecological Science | Capture and Handling of Wild Animals |
- | Landscape Ecology Practices |
- | Conservation Genetics |
- | Urban Ecology |
- | Statistics in Wildlife Science |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Advance Biostatistics | Science Communication |
Data Analysis Using R | Dissertation |
Summer Internship | - |
Ecosystem Services | - |
Spatial Data Analysis and Modelling | - |
Wildlife Forensics and Crime Investigation | - |
Wildlife Conservation and Management | - |
Human Dimension in Wildlife Management | - |
Wildlife Policies and Laws | - |
Critical Ecosystem Management | - |
Zoo Designing | - |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Banaras Hindu University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Banaras Hindu University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Non-Chordata & Chordata | Cytogenetics & Genetics |
Entomology & Fish Biology | Biochemistry & Cell Structure and Function |
Vertebrate Endocrinology | Histology and Histochemistry & Bioinformatics |
Analytical and Molecular Techniques & Microscopy | Mammalian Physiology & Neurobiology |
Evolutionary Biology | Hormones and Diseases |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Developmental Biology & Immunology | Animal Behavior & Environmental Biology |
Major Elective Course I | Evolution & Parasitology |
Major Elective Course II | Major Elective Course IV |
Major Elective Course III | Major Elective Course V |
Seminar | Project work/ Dissertation |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Annamalai University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Annamalai University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Life and Diversity of Invertebrates | Genetics |
Life and Diversity of Chordates | Environmental Biology |
Cell and Molecular Biology | Biotechnology |
Practical I Paper-1 | Life and Diversity of Invertebrates |
Life and Diversity of Invertebrates, | Life and Diversity of Chordates |
Life and Diversity of Chordates | Cell and Molecular Biology |
Cell and Molecular Biology | Biotechnology |
Aquaculture and Farm management | Environmental Biology |
Biostatistics and Bioinformatics | Wildlife Management and Conservation |
Public Health and Hygiene | Biochemistry |
Apiculture | Endocrinology |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Biotechnology | Entomology |
Immunology | Fisheries and Aquaculture |
Toxicology | Endocrinology |
Pre-lab discussion | Pre-lab discussion |
Practical - 1 | Practical – 3 |
Practical – 2 | Practical – 4 |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Lady Brabourne College
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Lady Brabourne College:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Non - Chordate Biology | Chordate Biology |
Ecological Theories | Developmental Biology |
Cell Biology | Immunology |
Genetics | Biochemistry and Genetic Engineering |
Parasitology | Endocrinology |
Insect Biology | Aquatic Biology |
Laboratory Course for Core Subject | Laboratory Course for Core Subjects |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Taxonomy and Biostatistics | Applied Ecology |
Animal Behavior and Wildlife Biology | Evolution |
Laboratory Course for Core Subjects | Comparative Animal Physiology |
Elective Theory | Laboratory Course for Core Subjects |
CBCC A | Lab Internship |
Internal Assessment | Dissertation & Seminar |
CBCC B | Grand Viva |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Christ University
Given below is the syllabus for MSc Zoology at Christ University:
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Microbiology | Genetic Engineering |
Biochemistry | Bioanalytical Tools and Bioinformatics |
Cell Biology | Biostatistics |
Genetics | Genetic Engineering, Bioanalytical Techniques and Bioinformatics Lab |
Mathematics for Biologists | Animal Phylogeny and Evolution |
Research Methodology in Biological Sciences | Molecular Biology, Animal Phylogeny and Evolution Lab |
Microbiology and Biochemistry Lab | - |
Cell Biology and Genetics Lab | - |
Syllabus for MSc Zoology: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Summer Internship | Food Technology |
Developmental Biology | Nutrition And Health Science |
Animal Physiology | Biopharmaceutical Quality Assurance |
Comparative Anatomy of Invertebrates and Vertebrates | Nanobiotechnology |
Animal Biotechnology | Algal Technology |
Developmental Biology, Animal Biotechnology and Animal Physiology Lab | Environmental Science |
Immunology, Comparative Anatomy of Invertebrates and Vertebrates' Lab | Sericulture And Seri-technology |
- | Forensic Biology |
- | Oceanography And Fishery Technology |
- | Food, Agriculture and Environmental Microbiology Lab |
- | Food Technology Lab |
Syllabus for 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 |