How To Become an Animal Scientist

What degree do you need

One of the most common questions that we always get is what major or degree do I need to become Animal Scientists or what courses do I need to take.

We also asked Animal Scientists what did they major in college or university and here are the top 5 most popular majors that came up.

Enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in animal science or a related field, such as biology or chemistry, is the first step to becoming an animal scientist. Students considering careers in research may need to earn advanced degrees; most animal scientists hold Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in animal science. These programs generally allow students conduct independent research in a specific area of interest, like meat science, reproduction, or digestion.

How hard is it

You will need an extensive amount of skill, knowledge and experience to be an Animal Scientist. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, a surgeon must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

Careers in this difficulty category may need some on-the-job-training, but most of these careers assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, and work-related experience and training. These careers usually involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Similar careers include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, neurologists, and veterinarians.

License and certifications

Animal scientists can get certifications from organizations like the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS), Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), or the Soil Science Society of America (SSSA). These certifications recognize expertise in animal science, and enhance the status of those who are certified.

Skills required

We asked other Animal Scientists if they could only have 5 skills, what would they be. Here is what they said.

Knowledge required

Just like any other job, you will need certain know-hows to excel at your job. Animal Scientists are generally very knowledgeable in these 5 key areas.

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