What degree do you need to work at a zoo?

Question

Zippia Team · Accepted Answer

You need at least a bachelor's degree in zoology, wildlife biology, or ecology to work at a zoo. Gaining an entry-level position as a zoologist requires a bachelor's degree in a related field of studies such as zoology or zoo science. If you want to do research, however, you will need an advanced graduate degree such as a Master's or Ph.D. degree.

Most students seeking zoo careers will major in fields such as biology, zoology, animal behavior, animal science, conservation science, or other related areas.

Keeper positions, for example, may only require an associate degree, though many keepers do have a four-year bachelor of science (BS) degree. Positions such as zoologists generally require a B.S. degree at a minimum, with M.S. or Ph.D. degrees being preferable.

Colleges affiliated with a local zoo may offer an associate's degree in zoo technology and an opportunity for valuable hands-on experience before, during, or after the classes. Specific courses in animal training may be available, or students may be able to transfer to a related bachelor's program.

A zoo science degree is one of your top options for beginning a career in zoo animal care. But it isn't the only degree that can help propel a successful career working with zoo animals. Zoology, animal science, and life sciences are degrees considered by many zoos, as well as ecology and biology.

Keep in mind distinctions in degree programs. Zoo science and zoology have different degree classifications. Zoology is a more biology-based educational endeavor with a focus on animals on a more cellular level.

While zoo science is more hands-on in terms of animal care, zoology is much more of an analytical approach to animal welfare. A zoologist might help create new medicines that benefit an animal and humans alike.