How to become a zoologist

Observe the makeup and chemistry of humans, animals, and plants. Glean information about how organisms interact with each other.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete a bachelor's degree in science majoring in zoology.
  2. Sign up for work experience or volunteer work to build practical experience and boost your resume. Contact animal shelters, zoos, wildlife parks, sanctuaries and animal conservations for potential opportunities. 
  3. Complete a postgraduate zoology degree to further your chances of obtaining a high-level role with extra responsibility and higher remuneration.
  4. Are you a researcher at heart? Take the academic route and study a PhD in zoology.

What does a zoologist do?

Duties and tasks

  • Design and conduct experiments to gather information on living organisms
  • Examine bacteria, fungi, cells, and other microscopic organisms, for information on larger plants and animals
  • Observe animals and humans in natural habitats and record their findings
  • Teach classes on zoology or other forms of science
  • Provide advice to locations where animals are kept in captivity, such as zoos

Professional bodies

Related jobs

  • Entomologist
  • Herpetologist
  • Ichthyologist
  • Life scientist
  • Mammologist
  • Marine Biologist
  • Ornithologist
  • Pathologist

Discover related degrees

Undergraduate SCU-MAR-DEG

Bachelor of Science (Marine Systems)

Undergraduate MAQ-BSC-DEG

Bachelor of Science

Available majors

  • Core Zone: Major in Biology

Undergraduate UNE-DSC-DIP

Diploma in Science

Discover related subjects

Undergraduate MAQ-BIOX1310

Organisms to Ecosystems

Related degrees

Undergraduate UNE-GEOL202

Introductory Palaeontology

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