VU
Virtual University of Pakistan
Department of Biological Sciences

Bachelor of Science in Zoology

Introduction

The BS-Lateral in Zoology is designed for students who have completed 14 years of education in disciplines other than Zoology and wish to transition into this diverse and dynamic field. Zoology, the scientific study of animal life, encompasses areas such as animal physiology, ecology, genetics, evolution, and conservation.

This 2.5-year degree equips students with fundamental knowledge in animal biology, wildlife management, biodiversity, and laboratory techniques, preparing them for careers in research, wildlife conservation, environmental science, and education. Graduates will develop strong analytical, observational, and research skills, making them valuable contributors to both scientific and applied fields.

By integrating foundational biological sciences with specialized zoological training, this program offers a structured pathway for students to advance their careers in animal sciences and related industries.

Objectives

The program is designed to:

  • Provide students with a strong foundation in zoological sciences, including animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, and ecology.
  • Develop essential laboratory, field research, and data analysis skills for careers in wildlife management, conservation, and biomedical research.
  • Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address challenges in biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and animal health.
  • Prepare graduates for diverse opportunities in research institutions, wildlife organizations, academia, and government agencies.

Eligibility Criteria

a) Applicants holding an Associate Degree/BSc or equivalent (14 years of education) from an HEC-recognized university/institute with at least 45% marks or a CGPA of 2.00 out of 4.00 are eligible.

b) Applicants who have completed a two-year Associate Degree/BSc or equivalent in a discipline other than Zoology will be required to complete deficiency courses through a bridging/deficiency semester.

 

Note: Admission is based on open merit, and seats are available exclusively for eligible students within Pakistan.

 

Assessment Criteria

  

Award of Degree

To be eligible for the award of a BS-Lateral in Zoology, students must complete the minimum credit hours as per the prescribed scheme of studies with at least a CGPA of 2.00 out of 4.00.

Duration

The minimum duration for the BS-Lateral in Zoology is 5 semesters (2.5 years), including one deficiency semester.

Project / Internship / Practicals

  

Scheme of Study

Total Credit Hours 66
Total Semesters 5
Duration 2.5 years


BS-Lateral (Zoology)
Bridging Semester
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
BIO504T Biochemistry I (Theory) Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
BIO5105 Cell Biology Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
MB502T Molecular Biology (Theory) Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ZOO512T Animal Diversity: Invertebrates (Theory) Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ZOO513T Animal Diversity: Chordates (Theory) Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ZOO517T Animal Form & Function-II (Theory) Major Bridging Semester 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
VU001 Introduction to e-Learning Major Bridging Semester 1 (Theory:1, Practical:0)
 
Semester No. 1
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
BT101 Ecology, Biodiversity & Evolution-I Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Biotechnology
CS201 Introduction to Programming Interdisciplinary Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) ICT in Education
ZOO503 Zoogeography and Paleontology Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Zoology
ZOO518T Applied Entomology and Pest Management (Theory) Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Zoology
 
Semester No. 2
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
BIF401 Bioinformatics I Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Bioinformatics
BT302 Immunology Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Molecular Biology
CS442 Introduction to Data Science Interdisciplinary Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) ICT in Education
EDUA403 Teaching of Arts, Crafts & Calligraphy Interdisciplinary Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Bioinformatics
ZOO507 Principles of Animal Ecology Major Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Zoology
ZOO511T Principles of Systematics (Theory) Major Required 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0) Zoology
 
Semester No. 3
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
ZOOI620 Internship Major Required 6 (Theory:6, Practical:0) Zoology
CS505 Virtual Systems and Services Interdisciplinary Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) ICT in Education
 
Semester No. 4
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
ZOO620 Research Major Required 6 (Theory:6, Practical:0)
ZOO516T Animal Form & Function-I (Theory) Major Elective 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0) Zoology
BT512T Microbial Biotechnology (Theory) Major Elective 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0) Biotechnology
MIC501T Microbiology (Theory) Major Elective 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0) Biology
ZOO603T Fish Biology (Theory) Major Elective 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0) Zoology
 


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