The knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology, diseases, nutritional and health maintenance, and welfare forms a strong career foundation for a Veterinary Science major. Graduates in Veterinary Science may continue their studies in veterinary school to become veterinarians, or they may work in the veterinary field as assistants, in animal welfare and adoption organizations, in film and television, or in feed production or livestock agriculture. This major is also excellent preparation for medical, dentistry, or pharmacy school or graduate studies in Animal Sciences. Some of the job titles listed below require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Veterinary medicine
- Animal adoption and protection
- Animal caretaking
- Pet psychology
- Animal rights activism
- Film and television
- Education
- Agriculture
- Laboratory research/testing
Sample Employers:
- Veterinary offices
- Zoos
- Nature preserves
- Animal shelters
- Film and television productions
- Pet-sitting agencies
- Self-employment (consulting/advising)
- Racetracks and fairs
- Medical testing laboratories
- Food production industry
- Extension offices
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Veterinarian
|
$49,900 - $82,000
|
|
Veterinary Technologist
|
$20,500 - $29,700
|
|
Animal Scientist
|
$34,000 - $58,200
|
|
Wildlife Rehabilitator
|
$13,000 - $30,000
|
|
Pet Psychologist
|
$40,000 - $60,000
|
|
Laboratory Animal Technician
|
$20,000 - $33,000
|
|
Zoo Education Director
|
$18,000 - $45,790
|
|
Zoo/Aquarium Curator
|
$26,850 - $47,220
|
|
Veterinary Health Inspector
|
$19,300 - $31,240
|
|
Animal Safety Representative, Film
|
$15/hr - $39,000/yr
|
|
Animal Shelter Director
|
$8.21 - $13.39/hr
|
|
Animal Forensics Specialist
|
$43,000+
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).