How to Become a Zoologist in Florida

Guidelines to become a zoologist in Florida are the same as anywhere else in the country.

Zoologists, also referred to as animal biologists or animal scientists, study and observe animal behavior in laboratories and in their natural habitat. They are life scientists who research the origin, the life cycle, the genetics and the ecosystem of one or more species. According to the 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, nearly 1,400 zoologists work in the state of Florida for different federal, state and private organizations. Zoologists in Florida, on average, earn $50,000 per year, which is less than the national average of $60,000. There are many educational and employment options available for zoologists in Florida.

Instructions

1. Get a bachelor's degree in zoology or in a related field. You don't need to go to a college in Florida to eventually make a living as a zoologist in the state. However, if you're a Florida resident, studying in state may help you with tuition discounts and may make you eligible for certain scholarships. Within the state, the University of Florida and the University of South Florida in Tampa have zoology degree programs, and Florida State University offers a biology degree with an emphasis on zoology.

2. Find an entry-level job as a zoologist. With a bachelor's degree, you can get a job as a field or lab technician, where you'll be responsible for anything from animal care to habitat management to data collection. You can begin with an entry-level job as a zoo curator or a zookeeper in one of 45 different zoos across Florida. Also, keep an eye on the Florida Division of Animal Industry for entry-level openings in the state government.

3. Become a research zoologist. While a bachelor's degree will let you begin a career in zoology, research expertise is often required to be recognized as a zoologist. To become a zoology scientist you'll need at least a Master of Science degree or preferably a doctoral degree in zoology or a related field. While several universities in Florida offer degrees in biology and animal sciences, University of Florida offers a streamlined zoology degree both at the master's and doctoral level; It also has a department of zoology. A master's or doctoral degree will open doors to research laboratories and grants for field research. Before applying for a graduate program, make sure the university offers extensive coursework in the field or species you've chosen. The department should have satisfactory research infrastructure and be affiliated with one or more zoological parks or animal conservation centers in the state.

4. Build a career in zoology. If you obtain a doctoral degree and demonstrate sufficient expertise via your dissertation and journal publications, you can apply to become a professor in any of the colleges or universities in Florida that offer a biology program. You can also apply to become a resident researcher in an animal conservation institute or research organization, or apply for jobs offered by zoological parks across the country.

References

• NCABR: Zoologist
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
• USA Zoos: Zoos in Florida
• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Animal Industry: Overview
• University of Florida: Department of Zoology