Australia Zoo owner Terri Irwin can add "Doctor" to her title after the University of Queensland recognised her work in conservation and research and her support for high-quality science.

Mrs Irwin said she was "overwhelmed" to join the graduating class at UQ on Friday night, where she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science.

Terri Irwin with son Robert and daughter Bindi after receiving her honorary degree from the University of Queensland. Credit:Bradley Kanaris

"There are so many people who are studying and graduating today who are going to be top in their fields, so to be counted among them as someone who's contributed to science and really wanted to make a difference is wonderful," she said.

UQ provost Max Lu said Mrs Irwin had made Australia Zoo available to researchers and students studying at the university.