How to Become a Zoologist

Zoologists usually work in zoos as directors, curators or zookeepers. Directors are responsible for fund raising and public relations; curators oversee the functioning of the zoo and the acquisition of animals; and zookeepers are responsible for the daily hands-on care of the animals. Increasingly, some zoologists are working in areas of conservation, breeding and the protection and preservation of species.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Academic Counselings
• College Catalogs
• Individual School Requirements And Application
• Career Counseling
• Postage Stamps
• Online Career Search

1. Volunteer during high school at facilities such as ranches and veterinary clinics, where you can gain firsthand experience caring for animals.

2. Maintain high grades in high school, especially in science classes.

3. Ask your high school guidance counselor for a list of colleges that offer a bachelor's degree in zoology or in biological science with a concentration in zoology. Realize that a bachelor's degree is only the first step in this field.

4. Send for college catalogs before your senior year. Make certain you meet the admissions requirements, and be sure to apply well before the deadline date.

5. During your college years, gain practical experience at a local zoo by volunteering or through an internship or part-time job. You'll make invaluable contacts through this work.

6. Be prepared to get a master's or doctoral degree if you want to advance to the position of curator or if you want to do any research work. Include business courses in your electives, even as an undergraduate.

Tips & Warnings

• You must love working with animals. Otherwise, this is not the career for you.

• Keep your writing skills sharp. Many curators write for scientific journals and other publications since zoos exist to serve the public.

• Keep in mind that you'll have to stay abreast of new advances in biology and zoology.

• You must be in good physical shape to work with animals.

• Realize that this is a very competitive field, even with an advanced degree. You must be willing to keep your eyes open for jobs in related scientific fields, such as conservation or the environment.