Download To be a Zoologist

•Zoology is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of
animals. It is concerned with all aspects of animal life,
including the origins, behaviours, diseases, and genetic
makeup of every kind of animal.
•Most of the work zoologists do involves teaching and
research. In some positions, the teaching part of the job is
much more prominent. Zoologists who teach at universities
and colleges must become adept at public speaking and
inspiring their students to study zoology. Others educate the
public through exhibits at museums or zoos. Even those
who do not work in educational facilities must spend part of
their time making presentations to scientific colleagues and
others.
-Most zoology research is done in a lab or in
the habitat of the creatures being studied.
Depending on their job, zoologists may need
to spend several weeks, or even months, in
the field each year. For the most part, this
can mean irregular work hours, observing
animals at all times of the day for long
periods of time.
-Those who do in-depth research may travel
to remote places to study an animal. For
example, a zoologist may spend a few
months in Africa observing elephant
behaviour. An adventurous trip like this
might entail living in tents in the jungle and
cooking meals over a campfire every night
-Programs in biology are offered at most universities and
some colleges across the country. Specific zoology
programs are less common, but they are available. A
bachelor’s degree usually takes 4 years to complete. A
master’s degree typically takes 2 more years, and a PhD
another 4 years.
LEVEL 1
Beginning zoologist
EARNINGS
Working in a zoo as a entry level zoologist:
$25,000 to $30,000 a year
Full-time master’s student: $15,000 to $25,000
a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Bachelor’s degree in a specialty field
RESPONSIBILITIES
Performing field research and lab work;
studying for master’s degree.
LEVEL 2
Zoologist or a teacher
EARNINGS
Industry: $30,000 to $60,000 a year
Teacher’s assistant: $15,000 to $25,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• Experience as zoo worker
• Master of Science degree & one year of
teacher’s college
RESPONSIBILITIES
Doing field and lab research; some teaching;
publishing papers; studying for PhD; working as a
teacher’s assistant.
LEVEL 3
PhD in Zoologist
EARNINGS
Governmental job as a researcher : over $100,000 a year
Zoology Assistant / Associate professor: $40,000 to
$100,000 a year
REQUIREMENTS
• PhD
Doing field research during summer breaks; publishing
research papers; performing administrative duties
(marking papers and planning lectures and classes).
RESPONSIBILITIES
Leading and directing research for government or private
sector; performing managerial and administrative duties;
selecting zoologist for research projects; handling highprofile research; applying for grant money.