Zoology: Job options

Jobs directly related to your degree

• Ecologist - studies the relation between organisms and their environment, carrying out a range of tasks which differ depending on specialist knowledge (e.g. freshwater, marine, terrestrial, fauna, and flora).
• Marine scientist - involved in research, analysis and forecasts in relation to the oceans, their life forms and coastal areas. Analyses the sea and its interaction with the land, atmosphere and sea floors and uses the information to predict changes to the earth’s infrastructure, inform statutory legislation and encourage environmental protection.
• Environmental consultant - works on commercial or government contracts to address a variety of environmental issues. Covers a wide range of disciplines such as assessment of air, land and water contamination, environmental impact assessment, environmental audit, waste management and the development of environmental policy and environmental management systems.
• Nature conservation officer - protects, manages and enhances wildlife habitats through conducting biological surveys and managing practical conservation.
• Research scientist (life sciences) - primarily involved in planning, conducting and analysing experiments, either with a definite end use (to develop new products, processes or commercial applications) or to broaden scientific understanding in general.
• Field trials officer - develops and manages research trials in the field or laboratory. Depending on experience, may be involved with the entire process of planning trials or oversee one particular stage of the research procedure.

Jobs where your degree would be useful

• Environmental manager - responsible for overseeing the environmental performance of private, public and voluntary sector organisations. Develops, implements and monitors environmental strategies, policies and programmes that promote sustainable development.
• Environmental education officer - involved in making people aware of environmental issues, promoting conservation and sustainability and enhancing the public's enjoyment of the environment.
• Biomedical scientist - conducts laboratory tests on human samples as an aid to diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disease.
• Higher education lecturer - teaches zoology to undergraduate and postgraduate students aged 18 upwards. Facilitates learning and carries out research activities. 
• Toxicologist - plans and carries out laboratory studies to evaluate the potential adverse effects of biological materials, chemicals and radiation of living systems and the environment.

Other options

Some university courses include work placements either in the UK or abroad as part of a four-year sandwich degree. However, zoology graduates may also acquire experience, skills and contacts through carrying out voluntary work. Opportunities can often be found in animal welfare groups, zoos and conservation projects. The skills gained from work experience and extracurricular activities can greatly enhance your employability.

If you are seeking a career in a different area, it is also important to gain experience. You can do this through university involvement, paid opportunities or volunteer work. These experiences can often be combined with your current study by working in the evenings or on weekends or by pursuing opportunities during the summer holidays.

Although some of the jobs listed here might not be first jobs for many graduates, they are among the many realistic possibilities with your degree, provided you can demonstrate you have the attributes employers are looking for. Bear in mind that it’s not just your degree discipline that determines your options. Remember that many graduate vacancies don't specify particular degree disciplines, so don't restrict your thinking to the jobs listed here. Look at your degree... what next? for informed advice on career planning and graduate employment, or login/register with My Prospects to find out what jobs would suit you, a helpful starting point for self-analysis.

Explore types of jobs to find out more about the above options and related jobs.