MSc Zoology Syllabus: Semester-wise, Year-wise, Subjects, 1st Year, 2nd Year, Books 2024

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MSc Zoology Syllabus: Semester-wise, Year-wise, Subjects, 1st Year, 2nd Year, Books 2024

Course

Simran Kaur

Updated on 17th April, 2024 , 8 min read

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: 

MSc Psychology

MSc Nutrition and Dietetics

MSc Sports and Event Management

MSc Computer Science

MSc Food Technology 

MSc Physics 

Syllabus for MSc Zoology: Overview

Syllabus-For-MSc-Zoology

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is MSc Zoology

MSc Zoology is the branch of Biology that focuses on the study of all animals, their structure, physiology, behaviour, classification, and distribution.

What is the syllabus for MSc Zoology

The syllabus For MSc Zoology includes topics on Animal Physiology, Immunology, Genetics and Evolution, Animal Diversity, Animal Ecology and Reproductive Biology.

What are the subjects in the syllabus for MSc Zoology

The subjects in the syllabus for MSc Zoology include Animal Behaviour, Parasitology, Mammalogy, Comparative Anatomy, Endocrinology and Marine Biology.

What is the syllabus for MSc Zoology Entrance exam

The syllabus for MSc Zoology Entrance exam includes topics on Cell Biology, Genetics and Evolution, Animal Physiology, Evolutionary Biology, Animal Diversity, Animal Behaviour, Biochemistry, Ecology, Developmental Biology, Biotechnology and Immunology.

What is the MSc Zoology Syllabus for DU

Genetics and Cytogenetics, Developmental Biology, Principles of Gene Manipulation, Immunology, Principles of Ecology, Behaviour of Social Animals and Biostatistics and Bioinformatics are some of the subjects in the syllabus for MSc Zoology in DU.

What is the MSc Zoology Syllabus for BHU

Non-Chordata & Chordata, Cytogenetics & Genetics, Entomology & Fish Biology, Biochemistry & Cell Structure and Function, Developmental Biology & Immunology, Animal Behaviour & Environmental Biology, Hormones and Diseases and Evolutionary Biology are some of the subjects in the syllabus for MSc Zoology in BHU.

What is the MSc Zoology Syllabus 2023

Structure and Functions of Non-chordates, Cell and Receptor Biology, Ecological Theories and Applications, Endocrinology and Neuroscience, Taxonomy and Biodiversity, Conservation Biology and Wildlife, Development and Differentiation, Biotechnology and Applications and Comparative Animal Physiology are some of the subjects in the syllabus for MSc Zoology 2023.

What is the MSc Zoology Syllabus 1st Sem

Structure and Functions of Non-chordates, Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Parasites and Immunity, Ecological Theories and Applications, Tissue Structure Function and Chemistry, and Laboratory Course are the topics covered in the syllabus for MSc Zoology 1st Sem.

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