I'm super passionate about animal behavior and ethology and want to major in it. Can anyone recommend colleges that excel in this field and what the programs are like? Thanks so much!
It's wonderful that you're passionate about animal behavior and ethology! Here's a list of some colleges that offer strong programs in this field:
1. Indiana University Bloomington: Known for their Animal Behavior major, the program focuses on both the biological and psychological aspects of animal behavior. The coursework is interdisciplinary, and students gain hands-on experience through research opportunities and fieldwork.
2. Bucknell University: Their Animal Behavior major emphasizes both biology and psychology, providing students with a broad foundation in the field. Students have access to animal behavior labs and the opportunity to participate in research projects or internships.
3. Canisius College: This college offers an Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation (ABEC) major. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the natural history, behavior, and conservation of animals, and prepares students for careers in animal welfare, wildlife rehabilitation, and conservation.
4. Hampshire College: Their interdisciplinary concentration focuses on very customizable animal studies, often with an emphasis on ethology. Students are encouraged to create their own course of study, which is unique among many colleges.
5. University of California, Davis: While not a specific major, UC Davis offers an Animal Behavior Graduate Group (ABGG) program for students pursuing graduate-level studies in the field. Many of the university's undergraduate biology programs also support focus on animal behavior through coursework and research opportunities.
When choosing a college, you should consider factors such as faculty expertise, research opportunities, available lab resources, and the potential for internships or fieldwork experience. Be sure to visit the websites of these programs to learn more about the concentrations, faculty, and opportunities available.
In addition to majoring in animal behavior and ethology, you might want to explore related majors like zoology, wildlife biology, or environmental science, as they may provide similar coursework or opportunities.
Good luck in your search, and I hope this information helps you find a college that aligns with your passion!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.