Students taking an animal anatomy and physiology course learn about the biology of animals and how they function. Class topics teach students about the physical structure of different animals and how their bodies adapt to environmental surroundings. Opportunities may be available for students to work in labs or in the field, inspecting animal structures.
A principles of zoology course offers students an overall understanding of non-vertebrate and vertebrate animals, and their evolutionary process. Students learn about the similarities and differences between these animals in order to classify them into specific types. Additional topics include cell chemistry, bioethical concerns, environmental issues, immune systems and ecology.
Zoology majors enrolled in an animal genetics course learn about breeding and the inheritance in different animals. The course teaches students about selection and mating techniques in animals. Topics in the course cover chromosomes, inherited defects, gene interactions, in-breeding, cross breeding, reproductive behavior, male and female reproductive systems, and breeding plans.
A cellular and molecular biology course in a zoology program teaches students about the regulation of cell division, cell interactions, cell motility and membrane systems. Students also learn how molecules contribute to the function of a cell within animals. Emphasis in the course is also placed on a cell's unit of life, function, composition, replication and differentiation.
An animal behavior course focuses on the understanding and evolution of animal behavior in different species. Topics cover social behavior, communication, predator defenses, sexual selection, animal instincts and establishing territory. Students also learn how animals react in aggressive situations, crowding, human interaction, territorial dominance, and hormones and courtship.