Zoology and Physiology

Master of Science (M.S.)

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

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Zoology graduate student examines a petri dish

Earn your zoology and physiology graduate degree at UW

Ready to make a difference in the world of wildlife management, conservation and groundbreaking research? How about in the allied health fields or medical and veterinary research? If so, a Ph.D. or a master's in zoology and physiology might be right for you.

UW has a unique zoology and physiology degree program that’s led by internationally renowned scientists and faculty members. Our campus is located in the same state as Grand Teton National Park and our students have access to an innovative field station inside the park to study its diverse wildlife. Many of our students additionally pursue teaching and research assistantships during their time at UW. Students have access to state-of-the-art microscopy, macromolecular and nucleic acid sequencing facilities to support their research needs and coursework.

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Zoology graduate student examines a petri dish

This program is currently offered in
the following locations:

Laramie Campus

Learn More About UW’s Zoology and Physiology Graduate Programs

The Department of Zoology and Physiology's graduate programs offer a diverse exploration of zoology, physiology and various biosciences disciplines, encompassing studies from molecular levels to ecosystem dynamics. Students engage in immersive field training covering physiology, ecology, evolution, fisheries and wildlife conservation.

Ph.D. Admission Requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong foundation in biological sciences, with at least 20 semester hours of undergraduate coursework in zoology, physiology or related fields. Additionally, a solid background in other scientific disciplines is valued, but not required. We welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to research and learning.

Graduation Requirements

Students are required to complete either a thesis (M.S.) or dissertation (Ph.D.) project as part of their degree program. Assessment milestones include the submission of a research proposal and comprehensive examinations.

Student looks at petri dish

 

 

 

 

Zoology and Physiology Graduate Program Highlights

Research Infrastructure

The University of Wyoming is equipped with extensive research facilities and equipment, including state-of-the-art microscopy, macromolecular, nucleic acid sequencing and data science facilities. Our location in Wyoming additionally provides unparalleled opportunities to study ecology, evolutionary biology and wildlife and fisheries management. Located in Grand Teton National Park, UW has a field station for our students to study the diverse ecosystem within the park. This makes UW one of very few universities in the country to have a field research station within the boundaries of a national park.

OUR FACILITIES

Many of our master's and Ph.D. students are selected for teaching or research assistantships. These opportunities come with stipends to help cover the costs of our students’ education. Plus, they provide students with excellent opportunities to improve their teaching and research skills.

OPPORTUNITIES

The Department of Zoology and Physiology is home to a renowned group of faculty members with impressive international reputations. Our faculty regularly publish in top international publications. In fact, the rate and quality of our departmental publications are among the very highest in the nation.

Meet the faculty

Every seven years, our departments receive external reviews. The latest review of UW’s zoology and physiology department reads “The Department of Zoology and Physiology is a highly successful and nationally and internationally competitive academic department that contributes substantially to the University of Wyoming mission and the State of Wyoming.”

 

Here at UW, we take pride in fostering a collaborative environment for both students and faculty. This extends to our zoology and physiology graduate programs, which seamlessly integrate with various interdisciplinary initiatives across campus. Many of our faculty and students actively engage in collaborations with entities such as the Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, the Program in Ecology, the School of Energy Resources, the Department of Veterinary Sciences, the Department of Botany and more. These collaborations not only enrich our academic programs but also provide abundant opportunities for networking, securing funding and conducting cutting-edge research. Through extensive collaboration across campus, our faculty contribute to an interdisciplinary academic landscape, enhancing the learning experience for all. 

 

Research Infrastructure

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What Can You Do With a Zoology and Physiology Graduate Degree?

A graduate degree in zoology and physiology prepares you for careers in research, healthcare, conservation and education. You’ll gain advanced knowledge of animal biology and physiology while developing research skills that can lead to opportunities in wildlife management, biotechnology, environmental policy or lab-based research. Many graduates go on to pursue Ph.D. programs or professional schools in medicine, veterinary medicine or physical therapy. Whether you're interested in fieldwork, lab work or health-related careers, this degree provides a strong foundation for your next step.

Here's a sampling of some of the jobs and careers you can pursue:

  • Environmental Scientist
  • Conservationist
  • Zookeeper
  • Laboratory/Research Assistant
  • Environmental Education Officer
  • Animal Nutritionist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Toxicologist
  • Wildlife or Fisheries Biologist
  • Habitat Specialist
  • Research Biologist

Here are some of the places that our graduates are currently employed:

  • University of Arizona
  • Virginia Tech
  • Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies
  • University of Wisconsin Madison
  • University of Wyoming
  • Wyoming Game and Fish Department
  • Idaho Department of Fish and Game
  • Western EcoSystems Technology Inc. (WEST, Inc.)
  • The Nature Conservancy
  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USGS)
  • U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

If you already have a bachelor's degree in zoology, biology or a related field, pursuing a graduate degree is the next step toward becoming a zoologist. You're in the right place! A master’s or Ph.D. in Zoology and Physiology allows you to deepen your expertise, conduct original research and specialize in areas like animal behavior, ecology, physiology or conservation biology. Graduate study prepares you for advanced roles in research, wildlife management, environmental consulting, government agencies or academia—equipping you with the skills and experience to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Deciding between an M.S. and Ph.D. in zoology and physiology depends on your career goals and interest in research. An M.S. is ideal if you’re looking to build specialized knowledge, gain research experience and pursue careers in wildlife management, environmental consulting or lab work. A Ph.D. is the better path if you’re aiming for a career in academia, lead research positions or high-level roles in government or industry. If you're unsure, starting with a master's can help clarify your interests and determine whether a doctoral program is the right fit.

Where Research Meets Real-World Impact

Discover how science informs conservation in this short video featuring Gary Beauvais, Director of the Wyoming Natural Diversity Database (WYNDD). As a research and service unit of the University of Wyoming, WYNDD plays a vital role in collecting and developing biological data on species of conservation concern and natural vegetation communities. With a focus on botany, vertebrate and invertebrate zoology and ecology, WYNDD helps bridge the gap between research and real-world habitat management. For graduate students in zoology and physiology, it offers meaningful opportunities to contribute to conservation through data-driven science.

Wyoming Natural Diversity Database

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