Career Overview
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