Office & Contact Information

Animal Biology Major; Faculty

The Program

The major consists of core courses in the sciences that build an understanding of animal biology from the molecular to the ecological and evolutionary levels of organization. After completing these core courses, students choose an interdisciplinary practicum project from general animal biology, predicated on their ultimate career goals. They plan this emphasis of study in a required discussion-seminar course and in consultation with a mentor. The program includes a senior thesis, which each student employs the process and principles of science to propose and carry out the practicum project they choose, integrating the disciplines of the major. The Animal Biology major emphasizes research in biological principles as opposed to animal care and husbandry.

Practicum Research & Career Alternatives

The Animal Biology program and professional research interests of each student guides him or her in Practicum and career choices. On- and off-campus Practicum research opportunities occur in research laboratories, at field situations, in zoos and public aquariums, with governmental agencies, national and state parks with private industry, and in international programs. A degree in Animal Biology prepares students for careers in research, teaching, academia, governmental regulation, health, or agriculture where these emphasize integrative biology of animals. Careers in veterinary medicine, animal husbandry and animal management remain open to Animal Biology majors as well, however, other preparation may be required. Students in the major focus on gaining research experience, and become well prepared to continue their training at the graduate or professional level in a variety of biological disciplines.

Lead Faculty Advisor

M. McMunn

Academic Advisor

E. Galvan Hack

Advising Center for the major, including peer advising, located in 150 Hutchison Hall, 530-754-4131; Academic Advisor located in 160 Hutchison Hall; 530-754-7277; abi-advising@ucdavis.edu.

The major requirements below are in addition to meeting University Degree Requirements & College Degree Requirements; unless otherwise noted. The minimum number of units required for the Animal Biology Bachelor of Science is 123.