What Can You Do With an Animal Science Degree? Exploring Career Opportunities and Benefits

Introduction

An animal science degree is an undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in the animal industry. This type of degree provides students with a comprehensive understanding of animal health, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, behavior, and management. The knowledge gained through this degree can be applied to a variety of different fields, including livestock production, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences. In this article, we will explore the career opportunities and benefits associated with obtaining an animal science degree.

Career Opportunities for Animal Science Degree Holders

Animal science degree holders have a variety of career options available to them. Some of the most popular occupations include:

Veterinary Technician

Veterinary technicians are responsible for providing medical care to animals. They assist veterinarians in diagnosing and treating animals, as well as performing laboratory tests and administering medications. Veterinary technicians must complete a two-year associate’s degree in veterinary technology before they can be licensed to practice.

Animal Scientist

Animal scientists focus on the improvement of animal products, such as meat, milk, and eggs. They use their knowledge of animal biology and genetics to develop new breeds of animals that produce higher quality products. Animal scientists may also conduct research related to animal nutrition, reproduction, and disease.

Research Scientist

Research scientists use their knowledge of animal science to conduct scientific research. They often work in laboratories or in the field, studying animal behavior, genetics, nutrition, and reproduction. Research scientists may also be involved in the development of new drugs or treatments for animals.

Zoo and Aquarium Caretaker

Zoo and aquarium caretakers are responsible for the daily care of the animals in their facility. They monitor the animals’ health and provide them with food, water, and enrichment. They also ensure that the animals are safe and comfortable in their environment.

Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists use their knowledge of animal science to study the effects of human activities on the environment. They may study air and water pollution, endangered species, and climate change. Environmental scientists may also develop policies and strategies to protect the environment.

Wildlife Conservationist

Wildlife conservationists work to protect and restore habitats for endangered species. They conduct research on the ecology of threatened species and develop management plans to ensure their long-term survival. Wildlife conservationists may also work to educate the public about the importance of protecting wildlife.

Livestock Manager

Livestock managers are responsible for the daily care of farm animals. They oversee the feeding, breeding, housing, and health of animals such as cows, horses, pigs, and sheep. Livestock managers may also be involved in developing new methods for improving the productivity of livestock.

Exploring the Benefits of an Animal Science Degree

Obtaining an animal science degree can lead to a number of career opportunities and provide many benefits. These include job security, career flexibility, and increased earning potential.

Job Security

The animal science industry is growing rapidly, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 10% growth in jobs over the next decade. This growth is due to the increasing demand for animal-related services, such as veterinary care and livestock management. An animal science degree provides job security by preparing students for a range of positions in the animal industry.

Career Flexibility

An animal science degree provides students with the opportunity to pursue a variety of career paths. Those with an animal science degree can find employment in fields such as veterinary medicine, animal husbandry, and wildlife conservation. This degree also provides the necessary skills to pursue graduate education in animal science, which can lead to more specialized positions.

Increased Earning Potential

Due to the increasing demand for animal-related services, those with an animal science degree can expect to earn higher wages than those without one. The median annual wage for veterinary technicians is $35,320, while the median salary for animal scientists is $62,290. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicts that the demand for animal scientists will increase by 8% in the next decade, making it a highly sought after profession.

How to Become a Veterinary Technician with an Animal Science Degree

Becoming a veterinary technician requires a combination of education and licensing. Those interested in pursuing a career as a veterinary technician should have at least an associate’s degree in animal science or a related field. Most states also require veterinary technicians to be licensed, which typically requires completion of an accredited program and passage of a state exam.

Education Requirements

In order to become a veterinary technician, you must first obtain an associate’s degree in animal science or a related field. Most programs take two years to complete, and some may require additional courses in chemistry, biology, and anatomy. Additionally, many programs offer internships or clinical experience to help students gain hands-on experience working with animals.

Licensing Requirements

Once you have completed your degree, you must obtain a license in order to practice as a veterinary technician. Each state has their own licensing requirements, but typically involve passing a state exam. Additionally, most states require veterinary technicians to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their license.

Professional Organizations

There are several professional organizations available to those who wish to pursue a career as a veterinary technician. These organizations provide resources, support, and networking opportunities for veterinary technicians. Some of the most popular organizations include the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

The Growing Demand for Animal Scientists

The demand for animal scientists is increasing due to the need for new technologies and techniques to improve animal production and health. Animal scientists are responsible for researching ways to improve animal nutrition, breeding, and genetics. They also develop new drugs and treatments for diseases, as well as analyzing the impact of human activities on animal populations.

Reasons for Increasing Demand

The demand for animal scientists is increasing due to a number of factors, including the need for new technologies to improve animal production and health, the emergence of new diseases, and the growing concern for animal welfare. Additionally, the demand for animal scientists is expected to increase as governments and businesses become more aware of the need to reduce their environmental impact.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the demand for animal scientists will increase by 8% in the next decade. This growth is due to the increasing demand for animal-related services, such as veterinary care and livestock management. Animal scientists can expect to earn a median salary of $62,290 per year.

Pursuing Graduate Education in Animal Science

Those who wish to further specialize in animal science may consider pursuing graduate education. Graduate programs in animal science are available at both the master’s and doctoral level. These programs provide advanced training in topics such as animal behavior, nutrition, genetics, and reproduction.

Advantages of Pursuing Graduate Education

Pursuing graduate education in animal science can provide a number of advantages. Graduates of these programs may find themselves in higher paying positions, as well as having access to more specialized roles. Additionally, graduate education may provide the opportunity to work with leading experts in the field and participate in cutting-edge research.

Types of Graduate Programs Available

Graduate programs in animal science are offered at universities across the country. These programs typically focus on either animal production or animal health. Students may choose to specialize in topics such as nutrition, genetics, reproduction, behavior, or management. Additionally, some programs may offer the opportunity to pursue a dual degree, combining animal science with another area of study, such as environmental science.

Exploring the Intersection Between Animal Science and Environmental Studies

Animal science and environmental studies are closely linked, as both disciplines focus on the protection and preservation of natural ecosystems. Both fields share a common goal of creating sustainable solutions to environmental problems. By combining animal science and environmental studies, students can gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between humans and animals, as well as the impact of human activities on the environment.

Importance of Sustainability

Sustainability is an important concept in both animal science and environmental studies. Sustainability refers to the ability of a system to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. To achieve sustainability, it is essential to understand the impacts of human activities on animal populations and ecosystems.

Combining Animal Science and Environmental Studies

By combining animal science and environmental studies, students can gain a better understanding of the complex relationship between humans and animals. They can learn how to create sustainable solutions to environmental problems and develop policies to protect animal populations and habitats. Additionally, this combination of disciplines can provide a unique perspective on the ethical considerations of animal use and conservation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an animal science degree can lead to a variety of career opportunities and provide many benefits. Those with an animal science degree can pursue a career as a veterinary technician, animal scientist, research scientist, zoo and aquarium caretaker, environmental scientist, wildlife conservationist, or livestock manager. Additionally, pursuing graduate education in animal science can lead to more specialized positions, as well as increased earning potential. Finally, exploring the intersection between animal science and environmental studies can provide a deeper understanding of the impact of human activities on animal populations and ecosystems.