A person wishing to work as a poultry scientist should typically begin obtaining formal college education and then supplementing this with relevant work experience. Some poultry science careers are primarily industrial, and applicants considering this type of work may benefit from some business training or experience. Other careers, such as teaching or academic research, are primarily academic in nature and necessitate a strong academic background.
A college degree from a school with a strong poultry science program should be the first step for anyone interested in becoming a poultry scientist. Large land-grant universities are known for having strong programs in the field, as these institutions were often founded to provide training and education to help industry and agriculture grow. Acceptance to poultry science programs typically requires good preparation and grades in high school, with biology courses or practical work in the field being especially beneficial in securing a spot.
A candidate wishing to pursue a career as a poultry scientist should concentrate on work in the field during their undergraduate studies. Internships and other types of practical work experience are frequently available and can significantly boost a resume while also establishing useful industry or academic connections. The majority of schools that offer this type of coursework also offer excellent advising services to help students. Students interested in working in industry or academia are often divided into different tracks during their training as a poultry scientist at this level.
Following the completion of an undergraduate degree, a graduate who wishes to work as a poultry scientist in industry will typically begin looking for work. Private companies employ a large number of poultry scientists and, in most cases, provide some additional training. Poultry scientists can also work for smaller niche-market businesses that specialize in raising poultry in accordance with free-range or organic standards.
A student must pursue a graduate degree in order to work as a poultry scientist in academia or research. Good grades are usually required in graduate programs. Having hands-on experience in the field can also help you get into a graduate program. Students should build a network of professional connections and working relationships while enrolled in a graduate program. This network, when combined with solid research and academic performance, will make it easier to work as a researcher or professor in the poultry industry.