How to become an animal scientist
Conduct research in the genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth, and development of domestic farm animals.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
What animal scientists do
- Study nutritional requirements of animals and nutritive values of animal feed materials.
- Write up or orally communicate research findings to the scientific community, producers, and the public.
- Develop improved practices in feeding, housing, sanitation, or parasite and disease control of animals.
- Advise producers about improved products and techniques that could enhance their animal production efforts.
- Conduct research concerning animal nutrition, breeding, or management to improve products or processes.
- Study effects of management practices, processing methods, feed, or environmental conditions on quality and quantity of animal products, such as eggs and milk.
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Science
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
Is animal scientist a good career?
On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 35% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- Texas $132,830
- Minnesota $88,640
- Wisconsin $84,310
- Washington $83,160
- Maryland $77,750
Animal Scientists salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.