Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Zoology |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years, then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Science |
| Career field / body | Research, wildlife/conservation and health |
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics |
| Competitiveness | Less competitive |
On this page
- What Zoology is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Zoology & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Salary outlook in Nigeria
- Where it’s offered
- Is it a good course?
- Skills you’ll gain
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Zoology is about
Zoology is the scientific study of animals — their biology, behaviour, classification, evolution and ecology, from the smallest insects to the largest mammals.
A brief history of the discipline
A major branch of biology, zoology underpins wildlife conservation, fisheries, disease control and our understanding of the animal kingdom.
What you will study
You study animal physiology and anatomy, taxonomy, ecology, genetics, entomology and parasitology, and wildlife biology, with field and laboratory work — and a research project.
Why study Zoology & who it suits
This course suits curious, analytical students who enjoy science and laboratory or field work. A love of animals and the natural world is ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in research, wildlife and conservation, fisheries, health and parasitology, agriculture, teaching, and museums and zoos.
Salary outlook in Nigeria
Zoology pay depends on the path — research, wildlife, fisheries, health or teaching.
| Career stage | Typical monthly pay (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry (graduate) | ₦100,000 – ₦250,000 |
| Mid-level (labs / teaching) | ₦250,000 – ₦500,000 |
| Senior / research / industry | ₦600,000 – ₦1,200,000+ |
Figures are rough approximations (monthly gross) as of 2026, drawn from Nigerian salary aggregators. Actual pay varies widely by sector (oil & gas, fintech and multinationals pay far above the public service), employer, location (Lagos and Abuja pay more) and experience — treat these as a guide, not a guarantee.
Where it’s offered: notable universities
Zoology is offered at many Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello University and the University of Benin.
This is not a ranked or exhaustive list — always confirm the current institutions and their requirements in the official JAMB brochure, or use our subject combination checker and the Zoology admission guide.
Is Zoology a good course to study in Nigeria?
Zoology is the science of animals — foundational to conservation, fisheries, health and research — with specialised demand.
Why it’s a strong choice:
- Relevant to conservation, wildlife, fisheries and health.
- Research and teaching options.
- A foundation for further study, including Medicine.
- Distinctive, niche expertise.
Challenges to weigh:
- A narrower job market.
- Entry pay is modest.
- Top roles usually need postgraduate study.
- Field- and laboratory-intensive.
It suits students who love animals and the natural world.
Skills you’ll gain
Beyond subject knowledge, Zoology builds transferable skills valued across many careers:
- Animal biology and taxonomy
- Field and laboratory techniques
- Ecological analysis
- The scientific method
- Research
- Attention to detail
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Sc Zoology (4 years) → NYSC → roles in research, conservation, fisheries and health, with postgraduate study for specialist careers.
How to get in: Zoology UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Zoology is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language, Mathematics and the core science subjects. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Zoology, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Zoology in Nigeria?
The B.Sc typically takes 4 years, followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Zoology?
Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics
What can I do with a Zoology degree?
Work in research, wildlife and conservation, fisheries, health and parasitology, agriculture, teaching, and zoos and museums.
Is Zoology the same as Animal Science?
No — Zoology is the broad science of animals, while Animal Science focuses on the production and management of livestock.
Is Zoology a good course to study in Nigeria?
Yes for those drawn to animals and the natural world — it underpins conservation, fisheries, health and research, and is a route toward further study, though the job market is narrower.
What jobs can I get with a Zoology degree?
Research, wildlife and conservation, fisheries, health and parasitology, agriculture, teaching, and zoos and museums.
Zoology vs Animal Science?
Zoology is the broad science of animals; Animal Science focuses on the production and management of livestock.
Can I study Medicine after Zoology?
Yes — it can be a route to apply for Medicine or allied health courses through further study.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties of science and relevant professional/learned bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.