The world is dominated by manmade creations and the human race, but without wildlife and nature, we wouldn’t have functioning ecosystems. Animals play a huge role in the function of the natural world, with an estimated 8.7 million species on our planet. If you want to help conserve these environments and the animals within them, then start by studying your way to a career that will make a real difference.
If you are an animal lover, adore the natural world, or have innovative ideas about sustainable wildlife, then pursue a career in zoology. So, what is zoology and what zoology careers can you work towards? We answer both of those questions and much more below. Delve into the wonderful world of animal conservation and care!
What is Zoology?
On first glance, you may assume that zoology jobs only include those that work in a zoo. The reality is that there are many career fields in zoology. Essentially, zoology refers to the study of animals from a scientific lens, focusing on their behaviours, physiology, structures, classification, and development.
It is a fascinating area of study that can result in you dedicating your professional career to conserving wildlife and the animals that keep habitats alive. There are various specialisms that you can explore, choosing a path that fits your interests, skills, and career ambitions.
The use of research, analysis, and data is used within zoology to provide the highest level of care and conservation to animals all over the world.
Types of Zoology
When considering the zoology careers you can pursue, it is important to identify the different areas. Depending on your preferences and interests, you may want to move into the following zoology areas:
- Conservation of habitats and endangered species
- Welfare and education of animals
- Pest control and diseases
- Drug testing and development
- Research and teaching
- Improving crops and livestock in agricultural settings
Zoology Courses to Kickstart Your Career
If you are at the beginning stage of your career path, then there is no better way to learn about the fundamentals of zoology than by enrolling on a course. With Animal Courses Direct, you can enrol on a regulated course that delves into the essence of zoology and the features of this wide-ranging discipline.
Our Level 3 Diploma in Zoology will explore the combination of biology, environmental sciences, and psychology, all of which fall under the umbrella of zoology. Learners will develop a comprehensive understanding of zoology, learning how life has evolved from single-celled organisms to the wealth of animal species that dominate our planet.
You will also learn about the importance of food and reproduction to animal species, as well as the varying habitats that enable animals to thrive. This is one of the most beneficial online zoology courses around as you can explore zoology without having to attend in-person lessons.
This is because our zoology courses, UK learners, are delivered solely online, so you can study from the comfort of your own home. You are in control of when, where, and how often you learn, making this course ideal for individuals who have existing commitments, such as a full-time job or childcare.
If you are thinking about changing your career to pursue zoology jobs but you want to have a base of knowledge to build upon ahead of degree-level study, or you want to figure out if a career in zoology is for you, then our course will help.
During the course, you will study the following units:
- Origin of Life and Evolutionary Theory
- Animal Diversity
- Mammals
- Animal Form and Function
- Finding Food
- Reproduction
- Animals and their Environments
At the end of each unit of our online zoology courses, you will complete a series of internal assessments online, with one of our qualified animal tutors marking it and providing feedback. Once you have successfully completed all of the assignments throughout the course, you will be issued with a Level 3 diploma.
What Does a Zoologist Do?
Most learners who have an interest in studying zoology go on to become zoologists, which is an exciting and important role in which no two days are the same. You could end up working with mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians, parasites, or fossil remains.
Essentially, the role of a Zoologist is to study animals from a scientific approach, focusing predominantly on animal welfare and the conservation of endangered species and habitats. The day-to-day role will differ depending on the type of zoology careers you pursue, but a Zoologist will likely work with data, analysing and interpreting it methodically.
Zoology jobs are varied and come under different umbrellas. Examples of the type of roles include:
- Zoological Field Assistant
- Field Biologist
- Conservation Biologist
- Wildlife Biologist
- Field Assistant
There are a range of responsibilities in zoology careers, and whatever area you decide to pursue, you could be tasked with the following:
- Studying animals in various environments, both natural habitats and zoos
- Carry out field and laboratory research
- Monitor animal species after identifying them and recording their behaviours and characteristics
- Write scientific reports and put forward recommendations
- Rehabilitate animals before releasing them back into their natural environments
- Predict future changes in habitats and animal populations using modelling software
- Keep up to date on policies and legislation
- Work closely with other professionals in the same field
How Much Does a Zoologist Make?
There is not a set salary for zoologists as it widely depends on the nature of the role itself, who you are working for, and the skills and qualifications you possess. Generally, though, most zoologists will earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year.
Once you gain a few years of experience, you may be able to command a higher salary, between £25,000 and £30,000 per year. Senior zoologists, such as researchers and managers, could earn more than £45,000 per year.
What Zoologist Qualifications Do You Need?
Like most careers, qualifications are needed to give you the skills and knowledge you need to perform at the highest level. When it comes to zoology jobs, most will require you to have a degree in a scientific-related subject, such as:
- Zoology
- Biology
- Marine Biology
- Environmental Biology
Some employers may require postgraduate qualifications, such as a master’s degree or a PhD, which you can study after achieving your undergraduate degree. If you want to work in research or teaching roles in higher education, then you will likely need to have a PhD.
If you are at the beginning of your career journey, then studying our Level 3 Diploma in Zoology will give you a taste of what’s to come in zoology jobs. This will also be beneficial to you before you progress on to higher education, as it will give you a base of knowledge to build upon.
What Can You Do with a Zoology Degree?
Becoming a Zoologist is the natural next step for individuals who get a degree in zoology, but there are plenty of zoology careers that fit into the realm of animal science. In fact, you could use this qualification to embark on numerous roles within the environmental and agricultural industries, as well as the pharmaceutical sector.
The types of careers from zoology include:
- Zoologist
- Animal Nutritionist
- Academic Researcher
- Ecologist
- Marine Scientist
- Environmental Consultant
- Nature Conservation Officer
Another popular job role is that of a Zookeeper, which will allow you to be hands-on in the day-to-day running of a zoo, as well as conservation efforts. A zoology degree will certainly help you achieve your career goal should you want to become a Zookeeper, but prior to beginning degree-level study, you can become familiar with the role by enrolling on our Level 3 Diploma in Zookeeping course.
Our online course, which includes a week of practical training at a real zoo, will give you a solid foundation of knowledge relating to the development of zoos, their conservation efforts, and animal welfare and ethics. This level of understanding will put you in good stead for future learning and will help you impress prospective employers.
Pursue Your Zoology Career Options Today!
Whether you are wondering how to become a Zoologist, are keen to pursue a career in animal nutrition, or you want to work as Zookeeper, then the best way to achieve your goal is to start with education!
We provide a wide range of online animal courses that will get you prepared for an exciting and rewarding career. So, if you want to learn more about our online zoology courses or need more information about our course offerings, then give us a call on 01202 006 040 or contact us online. Alternatively, you can learn more about our Zoology Diploma by clicking below!
Also, if you adore animals, you can keep track of all upcoming animal awareness days and events with our FREE calendar! Download it here.
