Compare two majors
Pick any two majors to see courses, skills, and typical career roles side by side. Useful if you're weighing two options that sound similar, like Computer Science vs. Data Science, or Biology vs. Biochemistry.
Biological & Life Sciences
Zoology
The study of animals: behavior, physiology, and diversity.
Typical courses
- ✓General Biology & Chemistry
- ✓Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy
- ✓Animal Behavior
- ✓Invertebrate Zoology
- ✓Evolutionary Biology
- ✓Animal Physiology
Skills you'll build
Animal anatomy and physiology knowledgeField observation and behavioral research methodsSpecies identification and classificationLab dissection and techniqueData collection and ecological analysisScientific writingPatience for observational, field-based research
Good fit if you...
- ★Passionate about animals and animal behavior
- ★Enjoys both fieldwork and lab-based anatomy study
- ★Interested in wildlife conservation, veterinary paths, or research
- ★Comfortable with outdoor and sometimes physically demanding fieldwork
Roles this could lead to
Biological & Life Sciences
Biology
The broad study of living things, from cells to ecosystems.
Typical courses
- ✓General Biology I & II
- ✓General Chemistry
- ✓Organic Chemistry
- ✓Genetics
- ✓Cell Biology
- ✓Ecology & Evolution
Skills you'll build
Laboratory technique and scientific methodData collection and analysisUnderstanding biological systems across scalesScientific writing and literature reviewHypothesis testing and experimental designMicroscopy and lab instrumentationCritical evaluation of scientific claims
Good fit if you...
- ★Curious about how living things work, broadly
- ★Enjoys lab work and hands-on experimentation
- ★Comfortable with a heavy science and math course load
- ★Wants flexibility before committing to a specific health or science path
Roles this could lead to
This comparison covers what each field of study typically includes. It's not a ranking, and it isn't a guarantee of course availability or outcomes at any specific school. See our disclaimer.