What Can You Do With A Zoology Degree?

zoology degree programs

Zoology is the study of classifications, physiology, behaviors, and developments of domesticated and wild animals in both controlled environments and their natural habitats.

What can you do with a degree in zoology? This article answers that question and more, providing you with examples of schools with noteworthy zoology degree programs and different careers around which you can form your education in zoology.

How to Prepare for a Degree Program in Zoology

Zoology is a subject in which you learn how to classify animals on a scientific scale and research various environments in which certain animals live, allowing you to gain the information necessary to help advise what sorts of environments animals can thrive in. This information often comes in handy for conservationists and others who work with animals in controlled environments. Believe it or not, you can begin preparing for a degree program in zoology just by excelling in a few basic high school courses. A few of these courses are listed below

Algebra

Biology

Chemistry

Physics

Zoology Degree Programs

Many universities and colleges around the world offer excellent degree programs meant to prepare students for all sorts of jobs in zoology. Choosing the right one for you may be difficult. Some things to consider when deciding which school to choose include how far you’re willing to travel to earn your education, expected class sizes, and whether you’d like to attend a public or private school.

The Department of Zoology at Michigan State University offers three different undergraduate degrees related to zoology: a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology / Zoology, and Bachelor of Arts in Zoology. The Bachelor of Science in Zoology program at Michigan State is designed to allow students to choose one of seven concentrations that will help expand their knowledge in a specific subfield and better prepare them for their ideal careers in zoology. The Bachelor of Arts in Zoology program focuses not only on the scientific aspects of zoology, but it also takes advantage of the social sciences and humanities courses relevant to zoology and the skills necessary to succeed in different areas of zoology careers, including but not limited to public speaking and communications. Students at Michigan State University can also further their education by earning a masters degree and/or doctoral degree, as well.

Located in Delaware, Ohio, Ohio Wesleyan University’s Department of Zoology offers students a bachelors degree in zoology through which they can choose from four different sequences of study. Classes at this private liberal arts school delve deep into biology, organic chemistry, animal behavior, evolution, and more in order for faculty members to provide students with a broad understanding of zoology so that upon completing the degree programs, they may qualify for various types of careers in zoology. Physics and mathematics are also incorporated into the degree programs related to zoology at Ohio Wesleyan University. Apprenticeships allow students to gain experience while still earning their degrees, as well.

The University of Gujrat in Pakistan also has a zoology degree program for undergraduate students. Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Zoology at the University of Gujrat need to possess a strong academic background in biology. Requirements for the zoology program include but are not limited to various courses on animal life and physiology, genetics, organic chemistry, and evolution. Students are also required to take English classes and Pakistan studies courses. The University of Gujrat’s zoology department aims to help students advance in research and exploration opportunities within various organizations involved with conservationism and other zoological concerns.

Careers in Zoology

While attending a college or university for zoology, you should also be considering the types of careers available for people with zoology degrees. Once you choose a career path, it becomes easier to shape your education to best prepare you to achieve that particular goal. This section contains just a few of the many career options you may have available to you upon graduating with a degree in zoology.

What Can You Do with a Zoology Degree?

Entry Level Careers in Zoology

Once you earn a bachelors degree in zoology, you may find that you qualify for one or both of the positions described here. Experience gained through apprenticeships and internships is also an incredibly valuable addition to your resume that will help you stand out from other applicants.

Aquatic Ecology Technician

An aquatic ecology technician assists an aquatic ecologist with field and lab work often by collecting water samples and samples of aquatic life and providing care for the aquatic life while the ecologist analyzes the data gathered. Aquatic ecology technicians also help prepare lab equipment for testing, as well. They typically possess a bachelors degree in ecology, zoology, or another related field. Aquatic ecology technicians possess excellent communication and organizational skills and are able to pay close attention to detail and follow directions accurately in a timely fashion. Gaining a position as an aquatic ecology technician is a good way to prepare for further advancement in aquatic ecology.

Aquatic ecology technicians may earn over $25,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.

Taxonomist

what can you do with a zoology degree program

A taxonomist makes discoveries of new species by collecting, organizing, and classifying animals, plants, and other living organisms. He or she may begin as a research assistant, helping with the collection of living organisms. Advanced organization, research, and problem solving skills are particularly handy for people interested in becoming taxonomists. Taxonomists typically possess at least a bachelors degree in zoology, biology, or another related field. It is not uncommon, however, for taxonomists to have advanced their education by earning a masters degree or doctoral degree in any of these areas, as well.

Taxonomists may earn around $42,000 annually, based on education and experience levels as well as whether they are animal or plant taxonomists.

Advanced Careers in Zoology

Upon earning your doctoral or masters degree in zoology, it is possible that you may qualify for some of the positions described below. If you decide not to earn a masters or doctoral degree in zoology, it is possible that both of the positions below may accept individuals with bachelor degrees in zoology and a few years of experience in the field.

Herpetologist

A herpetologist researches things like the anatomy, physiology, and behavioral patterns of amphibians and reptiles in order to determine the health of these animals in their natural habitats. He or she may also perform said research to make discoveries of new species, as well. Herpetologists usually have at least a masters degree in zoology, biology, or another related subject. They also possess excellent communication and research skills as well as a few years of experience in the field.

Herpetologists may earn over $50,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.

Ethologist

An ethologist studies behavioral habits of specific animals by working directly with the animals, performing experiments and research on a regular basis. He or she examines how animals interact with one another, including reproduction and communication processes. Ethologists possess excellent written and verbal communication skills in order to best record and present their findings to others, and they are also highly organized and outstanding researchers. They often have masters or doctoral degrees in zoology or animal science with a few years of experience within the field, as well.

Ethologists may earn around $58,000 annually, based on education and experience levels.

Companies that Hire People with Zoology Degrees

Various companies and organizations across the globe hire people with zoology degrees. If you’re looking to get involved in habitat conservation or other related fields, then consider applying to one or more of the places listed below. This list contains just a handful of examples of places that hire people with zoology degrees.

Wildlife Conservation Society – headquarters in Bronx, NY; hires positions for wild animal keepers, marine program assistants, pathologists, park services associates, etc.

Environmental Intelligence, LLC – various locations in CA; hires positions for biologists, wetland scientists, environmental specialists, wildlife biologists, etc.

Tetra Tech – locations across the US; hires positions for fisheries ecologists, environmental scientists, biologists, etc.

Moreland Altobelli – headquarters in Norcross, GA; hires positions for ecologists, archaeologists, etc.

National Audubon Society, Inc. – locations across the US; hires positions for conservation project managers, directors of conservation science, educators, etc.

Zoology is a very fascinating subject. With more and more wildlife becoming endangered, it is important for people to do what they can to protect animals from harm and provide them with healthy natural habitats in which they can thrive. Consider earning your zoology degree at a reputable school in order to be a part of saving the world’s creatures one day at a time.