How to Become an Animal Behavorial Specialist
- 1). Select a career path. Animal behavioral specialists work in a variety of areas that include research universities, wildlife preserves, zoos, and private practice. Your career path will determine what sort of training is necessary. It is possible to obtain an associate's degree in animal behavior at a community college, but a specialist in animal behavior requires, at the minimum, a bachelor of science degree in animal behavior.
- 2). Obtain a bachelor's degree in animal behavior. Apply to the colleges and universities whose programs are geared towards your interests. College courses in animal behavior may include biology, animal psychology. cognitive science, veterinary science, animal disorders, and animal sociology. Different programs will have different areas of emphasis.
- 3). Gain additional experience and training. Apply for summer intern programs at zoos, wildlife preserves, and research institutions. Work as a research assistant at your university, and attend conferences and workshops on animal behavior. The additional experience and knowledge will make you a more attractive candidate for graduate school programs.
- 4). Obtain a graduate degree in animal behavior. Graduate schools offer both master's degrees and Ph.Ds in animal behavior. A Ph.D. is required to teach or do research at most colleges and universities. A Ph.D will qualify you as a specialist in a particular area in the science of animal behavior.
Source...