For most colleges and universities in the U.S., completing a zoology program for a bachelor's degree takes approximately four to five years, depending on how many courses you want to take each semester. With a focus on biology, most zoology bachelor's degree programs teach students to apply the scientific method and conduct research for a wide range of subjects, including veterinary training, wildlife management, environmental study and animal biological sciences. Courses in the program also typically cover the principals of ecosystems, evolutionary biology and embryonic development.
After you have a bachelor's degree, completing a graduate-level zoology program to receive a master's degree usually takes an additional one to two years. The length depend on the school's particular program and how many courses you can take per term. A zoology master's degree program typically requires you to conduct research for individual projects and to work in positions involving biomedical, academic and government organizations.
If you want to continue your education after receiving a master's degree, many schools offer doctorate programs in zoology as well. For most schools, obtaining a doctorate in zoology will take an additional three to four years. Doctorate programs usually require you to conduct research for academic institutions and to teach a certain number of classes, depending on the school's particular requirements.
Because information regarding zoology is perpetually changing, many jobs require applicants to possess an extensive education in zoology or to continue their education throughout their careers. A zoology career requires you to have at least a bachelor's degree in zoology programs such as life sciences, wildlife conservation or another related fields. Many jobs also require you to have previous hands-on experience conducting field research or completing an internship. Having an advanced degree helps you keep up with the growing collection of information pertaining to zoology and increases your chances of attaining elite and prestigious employment opportunities.