How much does an animal scientist make?

A day might start in a barn or lab, checking animal feed and recording how the animals respond. Later, the scientist studies the results, writes them up, and advises farmers about better feeding or housing.

Did you know? At UC Davis, animal scientists found that a seaweed supplement cut grazing cattle’s methane emissions by almost 40% without affecting their health or weight.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s degree in animal science or a related science such as biology or agriculture. Some research jobs prefer or require a master’s or Ph.D.; animal scientists may also pursue professional certification through ARPAS.

School needed: Graduate degree or long training

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., pay can differ with experience, specialized skills and responsibility, and employer type, such as a university or an animal-feed business. Location matters too; extra credentials, including professional certification, may matter when employers value them.