University of Kansas

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework with an independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member. Students take classes that deepen understanding of animal form, function and behaviour, as well as methods for studying organisms in the lab and field. Typical topics include:

• Animal physiology and endocrinology — mechanics of organ systems, metabolic theory and physiological adaptation.
• Behavioral ecology — proximate and ultimate causes of behaviour, signalling, mating systems and social organisation.
• Evolutionary biology and systematics — phylogenetics, speciation, comparative methods and taxonomy.
• Ecology and conservation — population dynamics, community ecology, landscape approaches and conservation planning.
• Molecular and genomic methods — DNA sequencing, population genetics, and molecular markers used in systematics and conservation.
• Quantitative methods — statistics for biology, experimental design, ecological modelling and bioinformatics.

Students normally complete a combination of advanced seminars, laboratory and field courses, and independent study. A substantial, original thesis based on primary research is the central requirement; many students gain additional experience through museum collections, field stations and collaborative projects across campus.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, ecology, or a closely related discipline with preparation in core areas such as genetics, ecology, physiology and statistics. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, a statement of research interests, and letters of recommendation from academics or employers who can speak to your research potential.

Additional considerations include relevant laboratory or field experience and alignment with faculty research interests. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s accepted tests. Some applicants may be invited to contact potential supervisors before applying; direct contact with faculty whose research aligns with your interests is recommended.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme pursue a range of careers in academic research and beyond. Common pathways include:

• Continuing to a PhD in zoology, ecology, evolutionary biology or related fields.
• Research positions in universities, government agencies and non-governmental organisations focused on conservation, wildlife management and biodiversity monitoring.
• Curatorial and collections-based roles in natural history museums and university collections.
• Science and environmental consultancy, ecological survey work and environmental compliance.
• Positions in zoos, aquaria and wildlife rehabilitation that require advanced knowledge of animal biology and husbandry.
• Laboratory roles in molecular ecology, genetics and biodiversity genomics, as well as science communication and education.

Why study at University of Kansas

The University of Kansas offers access to a breadth of resources valuable for zoological training, including research-active faculty working across ecology, evolution, physiology and conservation. The university’s collections and affiliated natural history resources provide rich material for taxonomic and comparative studies, while nearby field sites offer diverse terrestrial and freshwater environments for fieldwork.

Graduate students benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations across departments and institutes, opportunities for teaching and research assistantships, and a graduate seminar culture that supports professional development. The environment at KU is well suited to students who want hands-on research experience, mentorship from established researchers, and pathways into both academic and applied careers in animal biology.