Can I become a zookeeper with an Environmental Science degree?

I am in college, and Ive been located schools to transfer to. Problem is I want to become a zookeeper and all the schools by me don't offer a zoology program near by. However I found out the Oregon State offers an Environmental Science program with specialization in Wildlife online. Does anyone know if I could become a zookeeper with this degree.Can I become a zookeeper with an Environmental Science degree?I would think so..actually not all zoos require degrees but here in the US most do prefer it. If you have an education pertaining to animals and wildlife I think that is all you need. You should check out this website to see actual zoo job openings to see what type of degrees/education they are asking for. Also check out your local zoo for volunteer and internship opportunities as well. I got my first job in a zoo by volunteering and working my way up to a paid position, but I was required to have a degree for the 2nd zookeeper job I obtained.

http://www.aza.org/Can I become a zookeeper with an Environmental Science degree?Best bet is to talk to some zoos about what kind of degrees they look for. Some only require associates (2 year) degrees. You may want to visit a zoo and see what the keepers do, and see if that really appeals to you.



Be prepared to work long hours, in hot/cold/rainy conditions, standing in poo, for not a lot of money. Expect to make less than $30k per year to start.



And it's not going to be glamorous. You'll be preparing food, cleaning enclosures and cages, and moving animals around. Get used to wearing rubber boots. And don't expect to be teaching sign language to chimpanzees anytime soon.



I'm not trying to discourage you. I have a child who is serious about becoming a large-animal veterinarian. He's still coming to grips with what some real vets have told him about their work.Can I become a zookeeper with an Environmental Science degree?That's a good degree to have, but you also need experience. See if you can get an internship or volunteer at a zoo. Good luck.