Master of Science - Zoology
The Department of Zoology has a vigorous research program ranging from the structure and
function of single cells through to the ecology, reproduction, development and
evolution of animals, with special expertise in the following four areas:
- Animal Behaviour and Evolution
- Marine Ecology and Physiology
- Conservation and Australian Wildlife Biology
- Reproduction and Development
The Department also has a range of sophisticated laboratories and equipment housed in a
modern building, and is an active participant in a consortium of Victorian institutions that
operate the well-equipped Victorian Marine Science Consortium (Queenscliff). It is
leading the University-wide development of a coastal research centre (National Centre for
Coasts and Climate) at Point Nepean on the Mornington Peninsula.
Course structure
Students studying the Master of Science - Zoology will take studies in either Population Biology or Physiology, and Biometry.
They have elective subject choice and must undertake at least one Professional Tools subject .
The research project in Zoology is valued at 112.5 credit points and involves rigorous field sampling programs, field and/or laboratory
experiments, collection and interpretation of data, and oral and written presentations.
Core discipline subjects
(25 points)
Students must undertake at least one of the following subjects:
Please note: These subjects will be available to Honours students.
Elective discipline subjects
(25 or 37.5 points)
Students can either undertake a:
Please note: Where appropriate a student may complete up to two 200 or 300 level
subjects, with the approval of the course coordinator.
Professional Tools
(25 or 37.5 points)
Students must take Science and Communication, plus at least one of the following
subjects:
Research project
(112.5 points)
Students will gain experience in conducting research in zoology by taking
responsibility for a research project, including the design of rigorous field sampling
programs, field and/or laboratory experiments; the collection, appropriate statistical
analysis, and interpretation of data; and providing an oral and written presentation of
the results.
A literature review (up to 4000 words; pass/fail) will ensure students assimilate and
critically evaluate existing knowledge within a scientific paradigm; a grant
proposal/project brief (up to 2000 words; 15%) will encourage students to consider
the justification and budget of their proposed research; an oral presentation (20
minutes; pass/fail) will combine oral and visual communication skills; a thesis (up to
10,000 words, 85%) will describe the students' research and enhance their capacity
to express persuasive intellectual, scientific arguments.
Delivery mode and duration
This is a 2 year full-time course. Part-time study may be offered by negotiation depending on the the
nature of the research project. All program subjects are delivered on-campus (Parkville).
Entry requirements
A bachelor degree with a major in an appropriate discipline with at least an H3 (65%) in the major, or equivalent.
How to apply
How to apply for Science graduate course programs.
Contact details
The Melbourne Graduate School of Science
The University of Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 8344 6404
Fax: +61 3 8344 5804
CRICOS Code 062189B