Research Opportunities
Zoology faculty are active researchers who regularly involve undergraduate and graduate students in their work. Students gain hands-on experience in the lab and field developing research questions, collecting and analyzing data, and communicating scientific results.
Recent research areas include:
- Behavioral ecology of freshwater fish
- Bird migration and song patterns
- Wildlife disease ecology, including white-nose syndrome in bats
- Urban wildlife ecology and management
- Disease monitoring in white-tailed deer
- Physiological and ecomorphological mechanisms shaping animal communities
These experiences help students build competitive résumés and prepare for careers or graduate and professional programs.
Classrooms Indoors and Out
Ball State manages a variety of teaching and research resources, collections, and properties used in zoology courses. In addition, Indiana’s regional and state parks provide opportunities for field trips focused on wildlife observation, ecological research, and applied biological study. Many courses incorporate outdoor learning environments alongside laboratory instruction.
Student Organizations
Students are encouraged to participate in the Ball State chapter of The Wildlife Society This student-run organization supports professional development through:
- Networking with peers, alumni, and professionals
- Guest speakers from state, federal, nonprofit, and consulting organizations
- Leadership opportunities and career exploration
Small Class Sizes
Small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio allow students to work closely with professors in lectures, laboratories, and field settings. This close interaction supports mentoring, individualized guidance, and strong letters of recommendation.
What Can You Do With This Concentration?
Graduates of the Zoology concentration are prepared for careers that involve the study, management, and conservation of animals in natural and managed environments. The combination of broad zoological training, field and laboratory experience, and research opportunities provides a strong foundation for diverse career paths.
Career paths include:
- Wildlife biologist or technician
- Conservation biologist
- Environmental or ecological consultant
- Research technician or laboratory assistant
- Natural resource specialist
- Zoo or aquarium educator (with appropriate experience)
Graduate and professional study options include:
- Zoology or animal biology
- Wildlife biology or conservation science
- Ecology and evolutionary biology
- Veterinary medicine and related professional programs
Graduates work in state and federal agencies, nonprofit conservation organizations, consulting firms, research institutions, and educational settings, or pursue advanced degrees.