Zoology is the scientific study of animals, including their anatomy, physiology, genetics, behavior, and evolution. The field offers a wide range of opportunities for those interested in working with animals or learning more about them.
Education and Research
Many zoology graduates pursue careers in education or research. They may work as professors or teachers at universities, colleges, or high schools. They may also conduct research at government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.
Education
Zoology majors who want to teach may pursue a teaching certification or degree. They may then teach science courses at the elementary, middle, or high school level.
Zoology majors who want to teach at the university level typically need to earn a Ph.D. degree. They may then teach courses in zoology or other related fields.
Research
Zoology majors who want to conduct research may pursue a Ph.D. degree or a master’s degree. They may then work as research scientists at government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.
Zoology research scientists may study animals in a variety of settings, including zoos, aquariums, and natural habitats. They may also use laboratory techniques to study animal behavior, physiology, and genetics.
Animal Care and Veterinary Medicine
Many zoology graduates pursue careers in animal care or veterinary medicine. They may work as animal caretakers, veterinarians, or veterinary technicians.
Animal Care
Zoology majors who want to work with animals may pursue a career as an animal caretaker. They may work at zoos, aquariums, animal shelters, or other facilities that house animals.
Animal caretakers may feed, clean, and care for animals. They may also help with animal training and research.
Veterinary Medicine
Zoology majors who want to become veterinarians may pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Veterinarians diagnose and treat animals, and they may also perform surgery.
Veterinarians may work in private practice, at animal hospitals, or at government agencies. They may specialize in treating a particular type of animal, such as companion animals, livestock, or exotic animals.
Veterinary Technicians
Zoology majors who want to work in veterinary medicine without becoming a veterinarian may pursue a career as a veterinary technician. Veterinary technicians assist veterinarians with a variety of tasks, such as examining animals, administering medication, and performing laboratory tests.
Veterinary technicians may work in private practice, at animal hospitals, or at government agencies. They may specialize in a particular area of veterinary medicine, such as surgery, anesthesia, or radiology.
Conservation and Environmental Protection
Many zoology graduates pursue careers in conservation or environmental protection. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies that focus on protecting animals and their habitats.
Conservation
Zoology majors who want to work in conservation may pursue a career as a conservation biologist or conservation scientist. Conservation biologists and scientists study the biology of animals and their habitats. They may also develop and implement plans to protect animals and their habitats from threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
Environmental Protection
Zoology majors who want to work in environmental protection may pursue a career as an environmental scientist or specialist. Environmental scientists and specialists study the environment and its interactions with humans. They may also develop and implement plans to protect the environment and human health from threats such as pollution, climate change, and natural disasters.
Other Careers
Zoology graduates may also pursue a variety of other careers, including:
- Animal training: Zoology graduates may train animals for a variety of purposes, such as research, entertainment, and companionship.
- Animal welfare: Zoology graduates may work to protect the welfare of animals in a variety of settings, such as zoos, aquariums, animal shelters, and factory farms.
- Wildlife management: Zoology graduates may manage wildlife populations to ensure their health and sustainability.
- Forensic science: Zoology graduates may use their knowledge of animals to help solve crimes.
- Medicine: Zoology graduates may use their knowledge of animals to help diagnose and treat diseases in humans.
Salary and Job Outlook
The salary and job outlook for zoology graduates varies depending on their field of work. However, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the job outlook for zoologists and wildlife biologists will be good over the next decade. The BLS also projects that the median annual salary for zoologists and wildlife biologists will be $63,050 in 2021.
Tips for Choosing a Career in Zoology
If you are interested in a career in zoology, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success:
- Get a strong education. Zoology is a challenging field, so it is important to get a strong education in the subject. This includes taking coursework in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Get involved in research. Research experience is essential for zoologists who want to pursue a career in academia or research. You can get research experience by volunteering in a laboratory or by working on a research project with a professor.
- Network with professionals. Networking with professionals in the field can help you learn about career opportunities and get your foot in the door. You can network by attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and volunteering your time.
Conclusion
Zoology is a diverse field that offers a wide range of career opportunities for those interested in working with animals or learning more about them. Zoology graduates may pursue careers in education, research, animal care, veterinary medicine, conservation, environmental protection, and other fields. With a strong education and a commitment to hard work, zoology graduates can achieve great things in their careers.
