If you’re someone who loves animals, has an incredible fascination with nature, and is passionate about conservation, then a degree in zoology can be the perfect career path for you. Many people believe that when you get a zoology degree, your only option is to become a zookeeper or work at an aquarium. But let me tell you, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, there are countless jobs that you can get with a zoology degree, and many of them might surprise you.
When you think of zoology, you might first envision zoologists studying exotic animals in the wild. While this can be one route for a zoology degree holder, there are many other possibilities. Some examples of jobs that you might qualify for include being a conservation biologist, who works on preserving endangered species and their habitats. Another option could be working for the government on wildlife management programs or as an environmental consultant for businesses looking to reduce their impact on natural ecosystems. Whether you want to work with animals directly, research how they interact with the environment, or work towards policy changes to benefit animal welfare, a zoology degree can open many doors.
So why choose a zoology degree over other possibly related fields? For one, zoology is a unique and interesting major, perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the world’s diverse ecosystems and the fascinating creatures that inhabit them. Additionally, having a background in zoology can qualify you for a wide variety of jobs in research, education, conservation, and much more. No matter where your passions lie, if you have a degree in zoology, you can use your knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world and the creatures we share it with.
Career Opportunities for Zoology Graduates
A zoology degree opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities that involve the study of animals and their natural habitats. Zoologists and other professionals with a background in zoology have the opportunity to work in various fields, including wildlife management, animal conservation, research, and teaching.
- Wildlife Biologist: Wildlife biologists study animal behavior, populations, and habitats to help ensure the conservation of different species. They may work in national parks, wildlife reserves, or other natural habitats and may also conduct field research to gather data on various species.
- Zoo Curator: Zoo curators manage the operations of zoos and aquariums, including the care and feeding of animals, staff management, and overall budget management. They may also oversee animal conservation efforts and research projects.
- Animal Behaviorist: Animal behaviorists study the behavior of animals to understand how they interact with their environment and other species. They may often work in research positions, conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand the behavior of different animals.
Other career opportunities for zoology graduates include marine biologist, wildlife rehabilitation specialist, animal welfare specialist, park ranger, and science teacher. In addition, many zoology graduates pursue further education in fields such as veterinary medicine, ecology, or evolutionary biology. With the increasing need for scientific research and conservation efforts, a zoology degree is becoming more valuable and in-demand than ever.
Below is a table of the average annual salaries for some of the most common zoology-related professions:
| Profession | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Wildlife Biologist | $63,420 |
| Zoo Curator | $59,910 |
| Animal Behaviorist | $76,090 |
| Marine Biologist | $50,980 |
| Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist | $37,460 |
Beyond the financial rewards, a career in zoology offers the opportunity to contribute to the conservation and preservation of animal species, as well as the knowledge and understanding of nature. With a zoology degree, one can be a part of cutting-edge research, contribute to the education of future generations, and make a positive impact on the world around us.
Job prospects in wildlife conservation and management
Zoology degree holders have a variety of potential career paths, and one of the most popular is wildlife conservation and management. Graduates in this field typically work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies to protect animal populations and their habitats. Some of the most common jobs available to zoologists in this field include:
- Wildlife Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Environmental Educator
Wildlife biologists are responsible for studying animal populations and their behaviors in a given area. They use this data to develop solutions for conservation efforts that seek to preserve habitats and protect animals from endangerment. As a wildlife biologist, you might work for a government agency like the National Park Service or a non-profit organization like the World Wildlife Fund.
Conservation biologists work similarly to wildlife biologists, but they primarily focus on a broader range of environmental issues beyond wildlife. They might work with corporate companies to develop sustainable practices or lobby government organizations to pass laws protecting the environment. As a conservation biologist, you would help to ensure that our planet is healthy and safe for generations to come.
Lastly, environmental educators use their zoology degree to teach others about animal life and habitat conservation. They might work in museums, aquariums, or nature centers, where they develop educational programs and exhibits that promote scientific knowledge and environmental protection. As an environmental educator, you would inspire the next generation to understand and care for the fragile ecosystems that surround us.
| Job Title | Median Salary | Job Growth (2019-2029) |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife Biologist | $63,270 | 5% (Faster than average) |
| Conservation Biologist | $63,270 | 5% (Faster than average) |
| Environmental Educator | $56,690 | 4% (As fast as average) |
Overall, a zoology degree can open many doors for those interested in wildlife conservation and management. This field is rapidly growing, and demand continues to increase for those with knowledge and expertise in animal biology and environmental science. So, if you are passionate about animal preservation and environmental protection, a zoology degree can provide a rewarding and meaningful career path.
Research Opportunities in Academia
After earning a zoology degree, one of the many career paths you can take is research opportunities in academia. This involves conducting research on animal behavior, genetics, evolution, ecology, and conservation in a university or research institution setting.
In academia, there are various research opportunities for zoology graduates, including:
- Research Assistant/Technician – assisting in research projects by collecting data, analyzing results, and preparing reports.
- Graduate Research Assistant/Teaching Assistant – working with a professor in a specific research area or assisting in teaching undergraduate students.
- Postdoctoral Researcher – conducting independent research and collaborating with faculty members on research projects.
In order to successfully apply for research opportunities in academia, it is important to have strong research skills, experience in laboratory work, and the ability to work in a team environment. Additionally, successful candidates must have a strong foundation in animal physiology, anatomy, and ecology, as well as the ability to conduct experiments and analyze data using statistical software.
| Job Title | Job Description | Education Requirements | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Assistant/Technician | Assist in research projects by collecting data, analyzing results, and preparing reports. | Bachelor’s degree in Zoology or related field | $28,000 – $50,000 |
| Graduate Research Assistant/Teaching Assistant | Work with a professor in a specific research area or assist in teaching undergraduate students. | Master’s degree or PhD in Zoology or related field | $20,000 – $35,000 (for Master’s degree) and $26,000 – $50,000 (for PhD) |
| Postdoctoral Researcher | Conduct independent research and collaborate with faculty members on research projects. | PhD in Zoology or related field | $40,000 – $75,000 |
Overall, research opportunities in academia provide zoology graduates with the opportunity to delve deeper into animal behavior and physiology and contribute to the knowledge base of the field. The skills and experiences gained in these roles can also lead to other career opportunities in the scientific community.
Animal behavior and welfare professions
Zoology majors with a focus on animal behavior and welfare can pursue careers that involve studying the welfare and behavior of animals in captivity, as well as those in the wild. Here are some of the jobs they can explore:
- Animal behaviorist – an expert in animal behavior who studies the social, cognitive, and emotional lives of animals in order to improve their welfare in captivity.
- Zookeeper – responsible for the care and welfare of animals in captivity, including providing food, water, medical care, and environmental enrichment.
- Animal trainer – uses positive reinforcement techniques to train animals for specific behaviors, such as for use in the entertainment industry or in conservation programs.
Additionally, zoology graduates can pursue careers in animal welfare advocacy, including:
- Animal rights lawyer – advocates for animal protection through litigation, legislative work, or public policy initiatives.
- Animal welfare inspector – conducts investigations and inspections to ensure compliance with animal welfare regulations or laws.
- Animal rescue worker – helps rescue animals in need and provides them with care and rehabilitation.
Furthermore, there are job options for zoology majors with a focus on marine mammal behavior and welfare. These options include:
Marine mammal specialist – studies the behavior and ecology of marine mammals, often working with facilities that care for marine animals such as aquariums or marine parks.
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary* | Job Growth (2019-2029)* |
|---|---|---|
| Animal behaviorist | $61,050 | 11% |
| Zookeeper | $25,280 | 16% |
| Animal trainer | $33,600 | 12% |
| Animal rights lawyer | $126,930 | 4% |
| Animal welfare inspector | $44,360 | 8% |
| Animal rescue worker | $30,830 | 16% |
| Marine mammal specialist | $52,330 | 8% |
*Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Opportunities in Veterinary Medicine and Animal Health
If you have a passion for animals and their health and well-being, then pursuing a career in veterinary medicine or animal health may be a perfect fit for you. Zoology graduates are well-suited for careers in these fields due to their knowledge of animal behavior, physiology, and anatomy.
Here are some of the career opportunities available in veterinary medicine and animal health:
- Veterinarian: Veterinarians are responsible for diagnosing and treating animal illnesses, performing surgeries and procedures, and providing preventative care. They can work in a variety of settings, including private practices, animal hospitals, research facilities, and more.
- Veterinary Technician: Veterinary technicians work under the supervision of a veterinarian to provide care to animals. They may administer medications, perform diagnostic tests, and assist with surgeries and other procedures.
- Animal Behaviorist: Animal behaviorists are experts in animal behavior and psychology. They work to diagnose and treat behavioral issues in animals, often using positive reinforcement techniques and behavior modification strategies.
Career Paths in Animal Health
There are also many career opportunities in animal health outside of traditional veterinary medicine:
Animal pharmaceuticals, animal nutrition and food, and environmental agencies safeguarding public health all require dynamic personnel who have specialized training in animal health.
| Career Path | Description |
|---|---|
| Research Scientist | Research scientists study animal health and disease in order to develop new treatments and therapies. They may work in government labs, academic institutions, or private companies. |
| Animal Nutritionist | Animal nutritionists develop diets and nutrition plans to keep animals healthy. They may work in research, as consultants, or in the animal food industry. |
| Wildlife Biologist | Wildlife biologists study wild animals and their habitats in order to better understand their health and behaviors. They may work for government agencies, conservation organizations, or as educators. |
Overall, a zoology degree can open up a wide range of opportunities in veterinary medicine and animal health. Whether you want to work directly with animals or contribute to their well-being in other ways, there are many fulfilling and challenging careers to pursue.
Jobs in Environmental Consulting
If you have a zoology degree, one field you could consider is environmental consulting. Environmental consultants work with businesses and organizations to advise them on ways to comply with environmental regulations and reduce their ecological footprint. Some of the possible jobs in this field that you could pursue include:
- Environmental Scientist
- Environmental Engineer
- Wildlife Biologist
As an environmental scientist, you would use your scientific background to analyze environmental data and develop strategies for mitigating environmental risks. Your job might involve researching air and water quality, measuring pollution levels, and monitoring the impact of human activity on ecosystems. You would then work with businesses and government agencies to develop plans for reducing environmental damage and promoting sustainability.
As an environmental engineer, you would help design and implement solutions for environmental problems. This could include developing systems for treating wastewater, managing landfills, or designing energy-efficient buildings. You would work with a team of professionals to identify the most effective and environmentally-friendly solutions to complex problems.
If you have a particular interest in wildlife, you could pursue a career as a wildlife biologist. In this role, you would study the habits and behavior of animals and analyze the impact of human activity on their natural habitats. You might also be involved in developing conservation plans to protect endangered species, working with government agencies to monitor wildlife populations, or conducting research on animal behavior and ecology.
| Job Title | Median Salary | Job Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Scientist | $71,360 per year | 8% |
| Environmental Engineer | $88,860 per year | 5% |
| Wildlife Biologist | $63,420 per year | 5% |
If you are passionate about protecting the environment and enjoy problem-solving, a career in environmental consulting could be a great fit for you. With a zoology degree, you have the scientific background and critical thinking skills needed to work in this field and help make a difference in the world.
Government agencies related to zoology and wildlife management
The field of zoology offers diverse career options, and one of the most fulfilling career choices for individuals interested in wildlife management and conservation is working for government agencies. These agencies are responsible for managing and conserving wildlife populations in various regions and also implementing policies that protect endangered species and their habitats. Some of the government agencies related to zoology and wildlife management are:
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
- National Park Service (NPS)
- U.S. Forest Service (USFS)
Working for these agencies offer exciting and challenging opportunities for professionals with a zoology degree. Individuals can work in various roles such as wildlife biologists, research scientists, park rangers, conservation officers, and environmental analysts.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is one of the primary agencies responsible for managing and conserving the country’s wildlife resources. It is an excellent place for zoology graduates to have a fulfilling career, as it offers various job opportunities in different divisions such as Fisheries, Endangered Species, and Ecological Services.
The National Park Service is another agency that offers exceptional opportunities for zoology graduates. With more than 400 national parks across the United States, the Park Service hires individuals to work as park rangers, wildlife biologists, and ecologists. They are responsible for managing the parks’ wildlife populations and also conducting research to facilitate better conservation efforts.
Finally, the US Forest Service hires individuals with a zoology degree to work as wildlife biologists, forestry technicians, and environmental scientists. They are responsible for managing the country’s 154 national forests and 20 grasslands, conducting research, and implementing policies on wildlife conservation.
| Government Agency | Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) | Wildlife biologists, research scientists, park rangers, conservation officers, and environmental analysts |
| National Park Service (NPS) | Park rangers, wildlife biologists, and ecologists |
| U.S. Forest Service (USFS) | Wildlife biologists, forestry technicians, and environmental scientists |
Working with these government agencies offers recently graduated zoologists with the chance to make a meaningful contribution in managing and conserving the country’s wildlife. Individuals can expect a challenging and rewarding career that allows them to pursue their passion for wildlife management and conservation.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get with a Zoology Degree?
1. What kind of jobs can you get with a zoology degree?
With a zoology degree, you can get a variety of jobs such as animal caretaker, wildlife biologist, zoologist, veterinary technologist, and much more depending on your specialization and interests.
2. Is a zoology degree suitable for students who love animals?
Yes, a zoology degree is perfect for students who have a passion for animals. It provides them with opportunities to learn more about different animal species, their behaviors, and their environments.
3. Can you become a veterinarian with a zoology degree?
Although a zoology degree is helpful when pursuing a veterinary career, it is not a substitute for a veterinary degree. A zoology degree can help you gain knowledge about animal anatomy, diseases, and the environment, which may be helpful in veterinary school.
4. Can you work in a laboratory with a zoology degree?
Yes, with a zoology degree, you can work in a laboratory as a research assistant, lab manager, or technician. You can aid in conducting research on genetic diversity, animal behavior, and development.
5. What kind of jobs can you get with a zoology degree in the field of conservation?
With a zoology degree, you can work in the field of conservation as a wildlife biologist, entomologist, ecologist, conservation scientist, or environmental consultant.
6. Are there any jobs related to marine and aquatic life with a zoology degree?
Yes, you can work in marine and aquatic life areas of zoology study, such as a marine biologist, wildlife biologist, marine mammal trainer, or oceanographer.
7. Can you work in a zoo as a zoology degree holder?
Yes, with a Zoology degree, you can work in a zoo as a zoologist, animal keeper, or curator and conduct research in areas such as animal behavior, conservation, and species rehabilitation.
Closing thoughts
Zoology is an exciting field that offers diverse opportunities for individuals passionate about animals and conservation. With a zoology degree, you can work in a variety of career fields such as lab research, animal rehabilitation, or conservation. Thank you for reading this article about what kind of jobs you can get with a zoology degree. Don’t hesitate to revisit often for more informative articles on various educational and career topics.