DU admissions: Zoology breaks into top 3 popular UG courses; BCom (Hons) remains top choice
The programme surged to third place with 12,722 top-choice applications, overtaking the traditionally popular English (Hons). With 15,295 applications, Political Science (Hons) was in second place.
Last year, the three most preferred courses were BCom (H), BA (H) English, and BA (H) Political Science while Zoology (H) didn't figure even in the top five courses. However, this year appears to mark a decisive turn for the subject.
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Pandemic a turning point in how many perceive life sciences
An increasing number of students are getting drawn to life sciences, driven not only by academic interest but by a growing desire to engage with the world in more purposeful and tangible ways. According to Professor Rita Singh, head of DU's zoology department, this rising interest is no accident.
"There are compelling reasons why students are choosing zoology more now than before.
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Zoology offers a wholesome understanding of life - whether it is biodiversity, drug design or toxicology," she explained. "Conceptual clarity is key, and zoology provides that foundation - right from how receptors work to understanding environmental toxins like endocrine disruptors. This core knowledge gives the subject a strong edge.
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She added that the Covid pandemic was a turning point in how students perceived life sciences.
"During the pandemic, students realised that the disciplines addressing immunity, vaccination, genetics and PCR were all rooted in zoology. Now, those interested in setting up diagnostics startups or small biotech ventures are turning to this subject. It offers interdisciplinary strength, hands-on experience and opens doors across research, healthcare and industry.
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Singh also noted that the subject's integration with the new National Education Policy, especially the fourth-year research option, is encouraging more students to engage deeply with the discipline.
"It is not just about animal biodiversity anymore. Students are learning how physiology links with environmental science, how allied fields like biotechnology and medicine intersect - and how zoology can be a bridge to all of them. It offers a truly multidisciplinary future."
The surging popularity of zoology reflects a broader generational shift. Students today are viewing education through the lens of purpose and real-world application.
For many, the subject is a launchpad into diverse fields - from scientific research and wildlife conservation to sustainable entrepreneurship.
"My interest in zoology and wildlife began with books and deepened through environment-related videos on YouTube. I have always admired those who speak up for the voiceless - people committed to protecting animals and nature. What draws me most is the hands-on fieldwork which resonates with my belief that work should be both meaningful and fulfilling.
There are many ways to serve the environment, but the most powerful path is one that brings both purpose and joy," said Shreya Singh, a BSc (Hons) Zoology final-year student.
Experts say this trend is rooted as much in practical ambition as it is in passion. Dr Sanjiv Mullick from Dyal Singh College's zoology department highlighted the applied nature of the subject. "Zoology has highly applied branches like economic zoology - fisheries, sericulture, apiculture.
These are fertile grounds for entrepreneurship. Many students today want to launch their own ventures in fishery science or silk and honeybee production," he said.
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