Zoology University of Otago

Overview

The Zoology programme at the University of Otago provides an immersive scientific exploration into the lives, behaviours, and evolutionary patterns of animals across the globe. Students enrolled in this course benefit from the university's unique location in New Zealand’s wildlife capital, gaining direct access to rare species and diverse natural habitats.

This interdisciplinary degree integrates various scientific fields, including physiology, ecology, and data analysis. Learners investigate biological systems from a molecular level up to entire ecosystems, studying how animals adapt to changing environments on land and in water. The curriculum is designed to turn curiosity into practical expertise for protecting global biodiversity.

Why Zoology at the University of Otago?

The department holds a prestigious international reputation for research excellence, particularly in the study of New Zealand’s unique fauna. Students learn from world-class lecturers who are active researchers in fields such as ancient DNA, neurobiology, and conservation genomics, ensuring the curriculum remains at the forefront of scientific discovery.

Facilities include specialised laboratories, such as the Ancient DNA Lab, where researchers reconstruct prehistoric ecosystems to inform modern conservation efforts. The university's proximity to the Otago Peninsula and Orokonui Ecosanctuary allows for unparalleled access to rare species like yellow-eyed penguins, sea lions, and takahē for study and volunteering.

Distinctive teaching features include the opportunity for undergraduate students to contribute to published research projects. By working alongside expert staff, students build professional portfolios and gain practical skills in biological data analysis, which are highly valued by employers in the global scientific community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 45990 per year
• National fee: NZD 10891 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Animal Biology
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Statistical Methods
• Biostatistics
• Animal Designs for Living
• Evolutionary Biology
• Animal Physiology
• Animal Function and Environment
• Neurobiology
• Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology
• Biological Data Analysis and Computing
• Freshwater Ecology
• Conservation Biology
• Evolutionary Genetics

Careers with Zoology

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the global scientific and environmental sectors. Many find employment as wildlife biologists, ecologists, or environmental consultants working for government agencies and non-governmental organisations to manage and protect natural habitats.

Other career paths include laboratory-based roles in biotechnology, genetics, and physiology. Opportunities also exist in marine and freshwater science, as well as in public-facing positions such as science communication, education, or museum curation, where graduates share vital knowledge about the animal kingdom.