To work as an animal nutritionist, you will almost always need post-secondary education. To be considered for this position, you will most likely need a bachelor’s degree followed a master’s degree in a related field. Internships and volunteer positions that help you expand your knowledge of animal health and gain experience working with animals may also be beneficial. After that, you can look for a job as an animal nutritionist using your degrees and experience. This type of position is frequently available at zoos, animal hospitals or shelters, science companies, or animal food production businesses; you could even work as a consultant to private animal owners.
To work as an animal nutritionist, you will typically need to complete a high school diploma or equivalent and then pursue a college degree. To be considered for this position, you must have a bachelor’s degree in a science or health-related field. Agriculture, biology, and zoology are all likely major choices. In order to prepare for this career, you might consider getting a degree in veterinary science. Whatever type of degree program you choose, you will almost certainly have the best chance of succeeding if you include a significant number of animal- or health-related courses.
When it comes to becoming an animal nutritionist, advanced education is usually required. You could, for example, obtain a master’s degree or even a doctoral degree in a related field. Earning an advanced degree in animal nutrition may be the best option for you. If such a program is not available, you can pursue an advanced degree in a field that is closely related, such as zoology.
Getting some practical experience can help you prepare for a career as an animal nutritionist. Volunteering and internships, for example, are great ways to learn more about animals and gain experience working with them. Labs, zoos, animal hospitals, and shelters are common places to look for such opportunities.
You can begin looking for work once you’ve obtained relevant degrees and experience. There are a variety of companies and organizations that offer job opportunities in this field. Zoos, animal care facilities, and animal food manufacturing companies, for example, frequently hire animal nutritionists. Aquariums, animal rescue organizations, and science firms are all good places to look for work.