Do I have to go to college to become a zookeeper? If so how many years?

Answer 1

There are a few options for being a zookeeper. The first is, of course, go to college and get a Bachelor's Degree in something like Zoology, Wildlife Biology, Animal Psychology, or Biology. The next option is that there are schools that specialize in zookeeping (Marion Nature Park in Florida for one) and have 2 year programs. These are effective, and I know a lot of zookeepers who've done exactly those programs. Lastly, there's just plain luck. I have a friend who has a degree in Art who lucked into a zookeeper position. However, she'd been with that zoo as a volunteer for 2 years and also taught zoo summer camp. It's all timing.

However, keep in mind that the larger zoos will require at least a Bachelor's Degree and a couple years experience. Try to start at a smaller zoo or even a refuge or vet office. You have to build up experience before a larger zoo will even consider you. Especially the REALLY big zoos like San Diego or the National Zoo. And yes, competition is VERY tight - most zoos will hire from within before they will hire from outside.

So the upshot - get an education. Also, try and get as much experience with animal handling as possible. Learning how to train a dog is also a useful skill. Most zookeepers train their animals for an assortment of behaviors. Start small, but eventually you should be able to get in at a good zoo.

Answer 2

it is totally attainable. If I were you i'd see if the faculty you'll grants an internship route if you're majoring in Zoology. you may want to seem up your community zoo and word in the adventure that they offer an internship position. Take it as your very last route on your 4 twelve months degree and once you graduate there's a sturdy probability that that they'd employ you after your 4 years is up. you may also start up volunteering now so that you may want to get your foot interior the door. Get them to start up liking you on the zoo. Networking is the perfect device now a days.

Answer 3

Yes, my sister is a zookeeper. It is a very competitive job market, and do not expect to make much money! She got her 4 yr degree in Biology and Zoology

Answer 4

You might look in to the teaching zoo at Moorpark Community College in Moorpark, California.
They consider themselves America's only teaching zoo.
Staffing for Marine World, San Diego Zoo, Safari World, and most other major zoological gardens are recruited from Moorpark, as well as trainers for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

http://www.moorparkcollege.edu/zoo/

their tuition is reasonable, and students care for the Campus' Zoo animals.
The only drawback is not being able to work off campus during schooling... At least that's how it was a few years ago.

Answer 5

yes u do but i don't know how manys years it takes.