Zoologist Requirements
Zoology is a branch of biology that deals with the study of animal life in its natural habitat and in laboratories. Zoologists are scientists who study the origins and development of animal species; they also study the relationship between animals and the environment. The field of zoology encompasses a broad spectrum and includes a study of simple and complex animal processes. Zoologists work as teachers, in research and at government agencies.
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Education
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Zoologists begin their education as undergraduates and continue it with graduate studies and professional training. At the undergraduate level, zoology majors receive comprehensive training in the biological sciences and in mathematics and social science. Major requirements in zoology include general biology and laboratory training, cell biology, biodiversity and organic chemistry. At the graduate level, students select a specific area of interest in zoology and work on a research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
Specialization
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Because it is a broad field, graduates from a zoology program can further their education by specializing in specific fields or concentrating their research on one group of animals. Areas of specialization within zoology include fields like animal taxonomy and ichthyology. Animal taxonomists identify and classify different animal species. Ichthyologists are fish experts; they concentrate their research on fish behavior, migration patterns and feeding habits. Other areas of specialization in zoology include herpetology, which is the study of reptiles and amphibians, and entomology, the study of insect life.
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Professional Development
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Like most professionals, zoologists must be up-to-date with new developments in the field of animal science and technical advancements by taking continuing education and professional development courses. Professional zoologists participate in national and local conferences, research and publishing. A team of zoology experts leads professional development courses; the training is designed to prepare participants for advanced careers. Most national and local zoology associations provide continuing education and professional development training.
Considerations
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The field of animal science offers numerous career opportunities for qualified candidates. Zoologists with advanced degrees have a better chance of holding top-ranking positions in animal science careers as project leaders and research directors. Museums and wildlife preservation centers also employ zoologists with advanced degrees for administrative and head curator positions. Other employment opportunities for zoologists with advanced degrees include government positions such as the head of a fishery or a national wildlife refuge. Academic institutions are ideal career options for zoologists with doctoral degrees and advanced research experience.
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References
- Photo Credit monkeys.monkey.baby animal. family.parenting image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
