In addition to working directly with reptiles and amphibians or performing research, herpetologists may also find employment as specialized writers and photographers. These professionals should have strong writing skills, organizational skills, communication skills, and active learning skills.
What training is required to be a herpetologist?
Nearly all positions in this field require at least a bachelor of arts (B.A.) or a bachelor of science (B.S.) degree in biology or a closely related field. A few schools offer undergraduate programs in herpetology, natural history, and invertebrate zoology.
How do I get a job as a herpetologist?
To become a herpetologist, you would get a bachelor’s degree in a life science, such as biology or zoology. From there, you would want to take courses or gain experience to expand your knowledge of amphibians and reptiles and specialize in this particular area of zoology.
How much money do herpetologist make?
Herpetologist Salary Median Annual Salary: More than $102,830 ($49.44/hour) Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $63,420 ($30.49/hour) Bottom 10% Annual Salary: More than $40,290 ($19.37/hour)
How hard is it to be a herpetologist?
Securing a position as a herpetologist requires a significant commitment of time and funds. Those who complete advanced levels of education and gain solid research experience during their undergraduate and graduate studies will have the best chance of success in this field.
Is herpetology a good career?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for zoologists and wildlife biologists (this includes herpetologists) over the next decade relative to other occupations and industries is good, driven by a need for more zoologists and wildlife biologists to study human and wildlife interactions as …
What kind of Education do you need to be a herpetologist?
Entry-level positions require that individuals hold a bachelor’s degree in zoology or wildlife biology. Undergraduate-level academics for these majors include courses in ecology, biology, chemistry, conservation, statistics, and wildlife management.
What kind of work does a herpetologist do?
Herpetologists are responsible for researching reptiles and amphibians, identifying new and invasive species, and maintaining population data. They are tasked with studying the ways in which reptiles and amphibians interact with their environments and for determining the roles they play in a given ecosystem.
Can you study amphibians and reptiles before becoming a herpetologist?
It is rare to find a job that considers someone to be a herpetologist first! Years ago it was possible for individuals to study amphibians and reptiles on their own, perhaps by maintaining large collections of animals or by studying them in the wild, and learn enough to get a position at a zoo or museum as a herpetologist.
How much money does a herpetologist make per year?
Top 10% Annual Salary: More than $63,420 ($30.49/hour) Bottom 10% Annual Salary: More than $40,290 ($19.37/hour) Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2017 College or university professors and top researchers may earn considerably higher salaries, often up to $80,000 or more in some cases. Education, Training & Certification
