Academics: Programs of Study: Undergraduate Degree Programs
Avian Biology
- Department: Poultry Science
- Degree: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture - BSA
- UGA Bulletin: Major Requirements
- Campus: Athens
- UGA Career Center: Career Choices
Avian Biologists study the science and biology of birds - both wild and domesticated.
Birds play an increasingly critical role in science, recreation, conservation and agriculture. Birds are economically significant because of their value as research models, as pets and hobby animals, and, of course, for their important role in food production. Avian Biology majors consider birds as both ecologically and economically important animals. Students enjoy hands-on learning experiences working directly with animals. Majors find plentiful job and advanced educational opportunities after graduation.
Requirements
Avian Biologists require broad training in practical, applied science and a strong grounding in general biology and chemistry. The interesting and unique characteristics of birds provide excellent opportunities for students to learn the basic principles of biology associated with reproduction, behavior, physiology, nutrition, genetics and disease as related to a variety of avian species.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Avian Biology major are in high demand. They find employment in a variety areas including education, environmental protection, resource conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and biomedical research. Graduates are especially well prepared for advanced studies in veterinary, medical, graduate and other professional schools.
Besides the demand for Avian Biologists in the science and research arenas, the poultry industry also needs highly trained avian scientists. Poultry production is already the most efficient of all animal agriculture, and future improvement in productivity will become increasingly dependent upon discoveries and advancements made through basic research in areas such as genetics, disease prevention, immunology, nutrition and reproduction. The traditional poultry industry is also expanding to include nontraditional birds such as game birds and ratite species. Georgia ranks first in poultry production in the United States, and over half of the agricultural income of the state comes from the poultry industry. The production of highly trained avian biologists is essential for the continued success of the poultry industry within the state, nationally and internationally.
Demand for graduates in this major will also come from opportunities in the rapidly expanding exotic bird industry. The number of pet birds in the US has grown to over 40 million in just the past few years generating a billion dollar industry that currently lacks qualified avian biologists. In addition, as natural habitat continues to shrink, there will be an increasing demand for avian specialists to manage ongoing and future endangered bird species recovery programs.