For those who enjoy animals or the outdoors, becoming a wildlife biologist can be a fascinating and rewarding career option. Many people, however, are unaware of the educational path that can lead to a lifetime career. Anyone considering a career as a wildlife biologist must first understand what is required of them and then obtain the necessary education to develop those skills.
The importance of science is the first lesson an aspiring wildlife biologist must learn. Of course, all types of biology classes are assumed to be beneficial to one’s career choice. Ecology, Earth science, wildlife management, and zoology classes, on the other hand, could be very useful. These classes will provide the educational foundation needed to pursue various wildlife biologist careers in the future.
The student will need to decide which type of wildlife biology field he or she is interested in at some point. Some people might be interested in learning how to manage wildlife in a forest, for example. Others may believe that marine biology is the right career path for them. While many of the basic classes will remain the same regardless of what is chosen, some additional direction and specialization will be required at some point.
Wildlife biologist jobs can be highly specialized, and while a formal education is beneficial, it is frequently only the start. College students, and possibly even high school students, should gain as much practical experience as possible. Internships may be available in a state’s Department of Natural Resources, Fish & Game Commission, or other similar agency. These provide some good opportunities to not only put that book knowledge to use with some practical applications, but also to network with others so that when it’s time to graduate, you’ll already have some valuable contacts in place.
Another thing to think about is entering a field where there isn’t much competition. Many people want to work with mammals, but fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects are also important aspects of the job that are frequently overlooked. Choosing a niche that others may avoid can drastically cut down on the time it takes to find work.
Furthermore, many wildlife biologists hold advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Doctorate. This increases their value to an employer even more, putting them ahead of the competition for the same positions. In fact, some wildlife biologist jobs may necessitate a master’s degree. As a result, be aware that the time commitment in college may exceed four years.