Animal Science Careers: Job Descriptions & Salary Info

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Get the truth about salaries in the field of animal science. Read the job descriptions and learn about education requirements and career prospects to decide if an animal science career is right for you.
  • Careers
  • Scientists
  • Zoologists
  • Biologists

Career Overview

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Animal science is a research-driven field that often combines lab work with fieldwork. Jobs in animal science can incorporate elements of biological science, animal management, animal production, research and even sales. However, according to projections by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field is likely to experience below average growth over the next several years.

Three careers in the field of animal science for you to consider are animal scientist, zoologist and wildlife biologist. Here's a quick glance at each of these professional choices:

Animal scientist Zoologist Wildlife biologist
Career Overview Animal scientists typically study farm animals and advise farmers on matters from breeding to animal housing. Zoologists research and work with animals and wildlife populations. Wildlife biologists are essentially zoologists who focus exclusively on animal biology.
Education Requirements Usually a PhD, although there are exceptions At least a bachelor's degree At least a bachelor's degree
Program Length 3-5 years for a bachelor's, 6-8 years for a doctorate degree 3-5 years for a bachelor's, 6-8 years for a doctorate degree 3-5 years for a bachelor's, 6-8 years for a doctorate degree
Certification and Licensing Specific certifications available and sometimes required Licensure and certification are rarely if ever required Licensure and certification are rarely if ever required
Work Experience Varies widely Varies widely Varies widely
Job Outlook for 2012-22 Average growth (9%) compared to all occupations* Slower than average growth (5%) compared to all occupations * Slower than average growth (5%) compared to all occupations*
Median Salary (2014) $61,110* $58,270* $58,270*

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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  • Careers
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