Good colleges for studying zoology?

I'm really interested in animals and thinking about studying zoology in college. What are some of the best colleges that offer zoology programs or degrees? Any recommendations would be appreciated, especially if they have great on-site research facilities.

If your passion lies with zoology, there are several colleges that are widely recognized for their strong programs and extensive research facilities. Here are a few that you might want to consider:

1. Cornell University: The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell offers an Animal Science major where you can focus on animal biology. More importantly, they have numerous research programs and laboratories that would provide a hands-on experience.

2. Duke University: While Duke does not have a dedicated zoology degree, their Biology major covers extensive aspects of zoology. Their Biology major can be combined with a concentration in Marine Biology for an in-depth understanding. They also maintain the Duke Forest and Duke University Marine Lab, which offer great research opportunities.

3. University of Florida: The College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at UF offers a Zoology major that provides both in-depth and broad education in the sciences. They have the Florida Museum of Natural History on-site, which could provide an enriching experience for a Zoology student.

4. Ohio State University: OSU's College of Arts and Sciences has a specific Zoology major offering a wide variety of classes including animal behavior, conservation biology, and mammalogy. In addition to that, they have a dedicated museum, the Museum of Biological Diversity.

5. University of Wisconsin, Madison: UW-Madison has an entire Zoology Department that is actively engaged in research ranging from genetics to ecology.

Keep in mind that undergraduate research experience can be just as, if not more, important than your chosen major. Therefore, being proactive in seeking out these opportunities is essential. Be sure to explore not only the college's curriculum but also the professors' research interests, as these factors will have a significant impact on your learning experience.

Lastly, you may also want to consider the study abroad programs and internships related to animal sciences these universities offer, as those can provide additional exposure and opportunities. Good luck in your college search and future studies!