A zoologist or wildlife biologist studies animals and their habitats to understand behavior, ecology, and conservation needs. You'll conduct research, analyze data, and communicate findings to protect wildlife. The work requires a bachelor's degree and strong scientific thinking.
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Zoologists and wildlife biologists observe and study animals in their natural environments and in laboratories. You collect data, run experiments, and analyze biological information using computers and field equipment. You communicate research findings to colleagues, supervisors, and the public through reports and presentations. The work involves critical problem-solving as you investigate animal behavior, population dynamics, and ecosystem health. You may also establish relationships with other scientists, agencies, and communities to support conservation efforts and inform policy decisions.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists earn a median of $76,780 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is modest. Employment is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, little or no change for all occupations, with about 1,400 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You'll need a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, wildlife biology, or a related field. During your studies, focus on biology, mathematics, and geography coursework. Gain hands-on experience through internships, field research projects, and lab work. Develop skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and communication. Many positions benefit from additional coursework in ecology, conservation, or specialized animal study. Consider whether a master's degree aligns with your career goals, as some research and leadership roles prefer advanced education.
Most paths to this career start with a bachelor's degree, though some roles may lead toward graduate study. The choice between focusing on fieldwork, laboratory research, or policy work early on shapes your next steps, so if you are exploring those options, Pathly can map the zoologist and wildlife biologist path that fits you and turn it into a step-by-step plan with your counselor.
You do not need a license to work as a zoologist and wildlife biologist, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You're drawn to investigative work that uses curiosity and analysis to solve problems. You enjoy learning how systems work, asking questions, and using evidence to reach conclusions.
Reading about a career is the easy part. Turning it into a plan is where most students get stuck. Pathly takes you from curious to a clear next step, and gives your counselor the insight to champion you along the way.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).