Zoology Minor
Study animal life — from physiology and behavior to specialized topics like marine biology, entomology, and herpetology — and add a credential that strengthens any biology or life science degree.
Program Overview
The Zoology Minor at Shawnee State University provides a dynamic foundation in the biological principles and scientific study of animal life. Through core courses in animal physiology and behavior, students gain a broad understanding of zoological science, while elective options in areas like marine biology, entomology, and herpetology allow for specialization aligned with individual academic and professional interests.
This program complements a wide range of majors and is especially valuable for students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, wildlife conservation, ecology, and other life science fields. Whether you're preparing for graduate or professional school or looking to expand your scientific skill set, the Zoology Minor can help you stand out.
At Shawnee State, our hands-on learning environment, experienced faculty, and access to natural ecosystems in Southern Ohio give students meaningful opportunities to explore animal life beyond the classroom.
At A Glance
Zoology Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Complete alongside your major
Credits
20
Why Study Zoology Minor at Shawnee University
You'll build a real foundation in animal physiology and behavior, then choose electives in specialties like marine biology, herpetology, mammalogy, or limnology.
Field and lab work is built in — Southern Ohio's diverse ecosystems give students a natural classroom for observing animal life.
Small classes mean faculty know your work and can recommend you for research projects, internships, or veterinary and graduate program applications.
The minor pairs with any baccalaureate degree at the University, but it's an especially strong addition for biology, environmental science, and health sciences majors.
The Zoology minor is 20 credit hours. A minimum grade of "C" is required in all minor coursework.
- Zoology Core (12 hrs.): BIOL 1152 General Biology 2, BIOL 3360 Animal Physiology, BIOL 4355 Animal Behavior
- Zoology Electives (8 hrs.): choose at least 8 hours from BIOL 3350 Entomology, BIOL 3351 Spider Biology, BIOL 3359 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy, BIOL 3852 Marine Biology, BIOL 4360 Herpetology, BIOL 4370 Mammalogy, BIOL 4491 Limnology, or BIOL 4680 Parasitology
- Pre-veterinary and pre-health students
- Biology, environmental science, and natural sciences majors
- Health sciences students wanting a broader life science background
- Students interested in research, conservation, animal care, or graduate study
Coursework and labs are taught in Massie Hall on the Portsmouth campus, with field components in Southern Ohio's diverse ecosystems.
Zoology Minor Frequently Asked Questions
It's well-suited for pre-vet plans. Animal Physiology, Animal Behavior, and electives like Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and Parasitology align with veterinary school prerequisites.
At least 8 credit hours from the elective list. Many students choose two 4-credit lab courses; talk with your advisor about the right mix for your goals.
Yes. Several electives include field components, and Southern Ohio's varied ecosystems make hands-on observation a regular part of coursework.
