Ethologists look into why and how animals act the way they do. Either a college degree in ethology or a degree in comparative psychology can be used to pursue a career in ethology. Animal behavior is also studied in comparative psychology, often by comparing different species, including humans.
Because advanced education degrees are usually required and job competition is fierce, dedication is required to become an ethologist. With a bachelor’s degree in psychology or biology, you can work as an ethologist, but post-graduate education improves your chances of landing a job and progressing in the field. A master’s degree, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), or a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) are required for the majority of animal behavior jobs (PhD).
Those who pursue a career as an ethologist and choose the biology path will specialize in zoology and other biological sciences, as well as study a wide range of animal species. Anatomy, genetics, and neuroscience are all part of the ethology undergraduate curriculum. During senior year of college, an independent research project is frequently required.
Animal behavior is studied within the context of human psychology in comparative psychology. Undergraduate programs provide a broad overview of psychological principles as well as an introduction to comparative psychology. To specialize in comparative psychology, a master’s degree is usually required. Animal behavior, psychobiology, and animal behavior research are all topics covered in master’s level programs.
Research assistants, zoo and museum assistants, and veterinary technicians are examples of entry-level positions in ethology. Teaching, research, zoo curating, and animal training are some of the other advanced degree-required careers for ethologists. Many ethologists are college professors. They primarily teach zoology and psychology, as well as related subjects like physiology and ecology. Some may even teach anthropology or sociology.
Some ethologists work for the government, universities, or private industry, conducting research. They could be researching wildlife or pest control. They could also look into human health issues or the effects of pharmaceuticals on animals. A PhD or DVM degree is required for these positions. Additional training in physiology, biochemistry, or pharmacology may be required in some cases.
Zoos are another option for those interested in pursuing a career as an ethologist. They occasionally hire ethologists as curators in charge of animal acquisition. Ethologists may be hired by zoos to study animal behavior, particularly in the case of endangered species like the giant panda. Ethologists can help researchers figure out how to save endangered species.