How to be a Herpetologist – Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles Photo by Todd W. Pierson. Careers in Herpetology In reality, herpetology is a sub-field of biology. Jobs in biology traditionally fall into four areas: college and university employment, government work (including state and federal), medical related work, and zoological park or museum staff. More recently, industrial and medical biotechnology have emerged as areas with new and exciting opportunities for biological research. What all of these jobs have in common is training in a biological field. The herpetological emphasis is put there by the worker! For example, a person might be trained in ecology and do environmental impact studies for the government. If that person is also a herpetologist, reptiles and amphibians might be the animals studied to evaluate changes in the environment. A medical research with training in hematology might, if interested in herpetology, study blood of reptiles and amphibians. It is rare to find a job that considers someone to be a herpetologist first!

Years ago it was possible for individuals to study amphibians and reptiles on their own, perhaps by maintaining large collections of animals or by studying them in the wild, and learn enough to get a position at a zoo or museum as a herpetologist. Today, however, techniques for conducting nearly any biological study have become so sophisticated, and competition for jobs has become so intense, that a college degree is a necessity in order to pursue a career in herpetology. Often an advanced degree (masters or doctorate) in biology, anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, physiology, or some related field is required for almost any specialized job. Many, if not most, herpetologists today are employed at colleges or universities and an advanced degree is usually a condition of employment at such institutions. The specific training required for a career in herpetology varies according to one’s goals. In virtually all cases a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science degree with a major in biology is required. Courses in inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry, calculus, physics and/or earth science should be taken. Statistics is now a necessary tool in biological studies and courses in this area are essential.

A great deal of herpetological research is conducted in other countries and facility in one or more foreign languages allows one to follow such activities in other nations. As in other branches of science, computer literacy is indispensable and students should enroll in courses that provide training in computer use. Any college that provides a strong background in the sciences, mathematics and English also provides the basis for a career in herpetology. But if you are seriously interested in pursuing herpetology as a career you might want to attend a college that also offers a course in herpetology (or at least in natural history or vertebrate zoology) and has one or more faculty members conducting herpetological research. “Leads” to such institutions can best be obtained by studying several recent issues of herpetological journals such as Journal of Herpetology, Herpetological Review, Copeia, or Herpetologica, and noting where some particularly interesting research (to you) is being conducted. You can then write to the institutions or authors and ask for further information about their programs.

Another reason to look at herpetological journals, which may be found in college or natural history museum libraries, is to give you some idea of the broad scope of herpetological research and to help you narrow down your interest. Following graduation from college with a bachelor’s degree in biology, you may want to seek employment immediately. However, opportunities for employment with only a bachelor’s degree are limited, both in terms of available positions and level of advancement. Nevertheless, many graduates obtain jobs in museums or zoos working with exhibits and live animals and dealing with the public. Others work in research laboratories assisting investigators with their projects; such positions exist at larger colleges and in certain government agencies. Students with a broad interest in natural history may find jobs in local, state, or national parks (as park naturalists) or certain large companies as environmental specialists; a knowledge of herpetology can be particularly useful in these positions. In addition, there are many fields — veterinary assistant, biomedical salesperson, biology teacher — where positions less herpetologically related are also available. Students who continue their education through to the masters or doctorate degree usually find employment where they have greater freedom to pursue their own interests, the salary is higher, and the responsibilities are greater.

Most individuals with a Ph.D. work at a college or university where they teach and conduct research in their own area of interest. Herpetological research is often conducted in the field, which involves the collection, marking or observation of organisms, or the analysis of environmental conditions associated with particular populations. However, other herpetologists have a strong interest in laboratory research and spend little time in the field. Studies in physiology, immunology, embryology, genetics, anatomy, and biochemistry are usually conducted in a laboratory, while research in ecology, behavior, population biology, systematics, reproductive biology, and biogeography involve significant amounts of field work. In all cases, however, data have to be analyzed, summarized, and eventually published in a scientific journal. The goal of herpetological research, as with other branches of biology, is to learn as much as possible about our special interest and to communicate this knowledge to others. Publication of this research in journals is how scientific knowledge is communicated and most employers look for people who have shown an ability to do research and also to publish it. Developing writing skills should therefore be considered a must in college. The main thing is — if you want to be a herpetologist, try it!

The study of animal biology can be a continuing interest and challenge for the rest of your life, and it will serve you well no matter what career you ultimately choose. Herpetology as a Career was written in 1985 by a committee composed of: Henri C. Seibert (Chairman) Case Western Reserve University Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA This page was initiated on 13 April 1998. Of course, we do not expect that it will answer all your questions, or that it will answer your questions completely. But it should provide many answers, and as always you are encouraged to contact us with additional questions. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Where can I find schools that offer a degree that includes course work in herpetology? There is a partial [and somewhat outdated] list at that will get you started. But one of the best ways is to use a major search engine and plug in the words herpetology course. You can also add a state name, etc to refine your search. We are in the process of building a database, and will make it available when it gets to a useful size.

Do I absolutely need a graduate degree (Masters or PhD) to do research in herpetology? To do herpetological research as a university faculty member or museum curator presently requires a PhD and usually a history of successful grant-writing. However, there are a fair number of persons doing high-quality, accepted research in herpetology who have no higher degree. They are scholars in every sense of the word who are self-taught, and who went out and collected animals, made careful observations, read a lot, and talked to others at professional meetings. One of the leading authorities on Mexican herpetology is a pharmaceuticals salesman in Louisiana. One of the leading authorities on Kansas (USA) herps, just now retired, never finished college. And, one of the world’s authorities on the breeding biology of pythons is a young fellow in Oklahoma (USA) who has managed to make a fine living out of breeding them commercially. But note that the emphasis of this section is jobs in herpetology; doing good research does not guarantee a salary for it! What kind of benefits does a herpetologist get? Do you get medical and dental benefits, and retirement? These things depend upon your employer and are very variable.

What’s the best way for a high school (or younger) student to begin to prepare to investigate herpetology as a career? It is important to begin to cultivate contacts through joining any State herpetological society or similar groups. Many have Web sites. Membership typically is a broad cross-section of society — persons with jobs in diverse fields, who share an interest in herpetology. Some members almost surely will be university faculty; others may work in State non-game wildlife programs; some will be students; others will be interested hobbyists with no job-link to herpetology at all. Also, you should, in high school, take a well-rounded set of courses (emphasizing sciences) that will qualify you for admittance to a good, 4-year college, in which you should major in what generally is called “organismic biology” or some synonym for that which distinguishes it from “cell and molecular.” Your GPA will be important; competition can be fierce! I know of no undergraduate program that offers herpetology as a sole concentration; it simply is too narrow a field, though at many schools a herpetology COURSE or two will be offered. A Bachelor’s of Science degree would be appropriate.

How can a person, who because of young age or lack of formal schooling, learn about reptile and amphibian behavior other than by reading books? Don’t ignore reading as a source of knowledge! Books and scientific journals contain a wealth of information unavailable on the Web. Keeping herps as pets is an enjoyable way to observe habits and get to know species, but it has its own drawbacks in that care is constantly required, even when on vacation or off to college (some species live a LONG time!). It can be as useful (maybe more), if there is a nearby good-quality zoo, to volunteer some Summer time to help do cleaning or be a “gofer” in the reptile department. Do not expect to be allowed to work with live animals at once; zoo policy or insurance regulations may in fact prohibit non-employees from so doing. But, one can learn a great deal this way, as well as expand one’s contacts. And, sometimes good-quality volunteer work can lead to a paying job. Volunteer work should be planned as a regular part of the week, so supervisors know they can depend upon a volunteer showing up, even if for a couple of hours MWF (or whatever all agree is useful).

Volunteering to help a college faculty member with research interests can be a similarly good experience that allows a lot of learning as a benefit. Careers with Animals: Herpetologist By Mary Hope Kramer Updated September 14, 2016 Herpetologists are specialized biologists that provide care and conduct research on a wide variety of reptilian and amphibian species. Here's an overview of the job for anyone considering this career path. Duties Herpetologists conduct research on reptilian and amphibian species such as frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, snakes, turtles, terrapins, crocodiles, alligators, and lizards. Research on these animals may be conducted in the field or in controlled laboratory settings. Some herpetologists, especially those concerned with anatomy and physiology, also study preserved museum samples. Areas of scientific research in the field of herpetology may include studies related to behavior, genetics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, health, and reproduction. Upon completing a research study and analyzing the data collected, herpetologists publish their findings in scientific journals where they can be reviewed by others in the field.

Herpetologists may be involved with the direct care of the animals that they use for research purposes if they do not have a laboratory assistant to handle such duties. Many aspiring herpetologists first hold lab assistant positions while they pursue their graduate level studies. Many researchers are also college professors and have teaching duties to attend to when they are not traveling to conduct research in the field. Herpetologists involved in education at the college level are responsible for preparing lectures, writing and grading exams, designing laboratory exercises, and supervising student workers as they assist with research studies. It may be necessary for herpetologists to travel to various countries so that they can pursue research opportunities with other specialists in their area of study. Foreign language skills can be a big plus during these trips abroad. Herpetologists working in the field setting may be exposed to varying conditions such as extreme heat, humidity, rain, wind, and parasites, especially when conducting research on reptiles or amphibians in tropical settings. Career Options Positions for herpetologists may be found with zoological parks, aquariums, museums, wildlife agencies, colleges and universities, and government or medical research laboratories.

The two primary areas most herpetologists work in are education and research, and many herpetologists work in a combination of both areas. Some herpetologists choose to specialize in working with just one particular species of interest. Others may not work directly with animals but instead provide writing, photography, or consulting services. Education & Training Entry into the field of herpetology requires at least a four-year degree in biology or a related field (herpetology is not offered as an undergraduate major in and of itself). Coursework may include a wide array of topics such as anatomy, physiology, biology, ecology, animal science , genetics, statistics, computer-based technology, laboratory science, and foreign language (as research may involve travel abroad). Graduate degrees, such as a Masters or PhD, are required for those seeking research positions. While many graduate programs do not offer graduate herpetology degrees per se, it is possible to pursue related studies in zoology or biology while participating in herpetology research with a faculty advisor. Many professors allow students to gain valuable experience in the field of herpetology by assisting with their current research studies.

Herpetologists may choose to become members of professional herpetological associations such as the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles (SSAR) , the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists (ASIH) , the British Herpetological Society (BHS) , and a large number of state and local herpetology groups. These groups promote education, conservation, and research in the field of herpetology. Salary Salary for herpetologists can vary based on factors such as the level of education attained, years of experience in the field, and the particular type of work the scientist is required to perform. Herpetologists holding doctorate degrees, those with significant experience in the field, and those with specialized knowledge of a particular species will be able to command the highest levels of compensation. According to employment website simplyhired.com, the average salary for a herpetologist was listed as $45,000 in 2012. Indeed.com, another employment website, cited a similar salary average of $41,000 in 2012. College or university professors and top researchers may earn considerably higher salaries, often up to $80,000 or more in some cases.

Job Outlook Competition is extremely keen for positions in the field of herpetology, and opportunities for entering this field will continue to be limited. Job seekers with advanced degrees and significant relevant experience have the greatest number of prospects. Securing a position as a herpetologist requires a significant commitment of time and funds. Those who complete advanced levels of education and gain solid research experience during their undergraduate and graduate studies will have the best chance of success in this field. Continue Reading Herpetology: What it is, how to find universities, and a little more... Last updated January 1, 2014 Herpetology What it is, how to find universities, and a little more... Compiled by Melissa Kaplan Science is a wonderful thing if one does not have to earn one's living at it. - Albert Einstein Several times a year I receive email from students who tell me that they want to be a herpetologist like me and would like to know where to go to school to get this education.

After I let them know I am not a herpetologist (I do not have a graduate degree in biology/zoology), I refer them to this page to find out about some of the universities that at one time, at least, had herpetologists on staff. Since I compiled the information here in 1997 and moved my website to its new location, I have not done much in the way of updating the information on the schools or faculty, nor do I plan to actively research this information Since researching information is one of the skills a biologist/zoologist needs, I figure this is a good time to start for those interested in pursuing studies in this area. A section of this page does provide some suggestions on how to get started on this research. If someone does come up with more current information or additional schools and would like to see it added to this page, please do send it to me . her·pe·tol·o·gy (hur´pi-tal e-jee) The branch of zoology that deals with the study of reptiles and amphibians. Many junior and high school students are interested in studying herpetology when they go to college.

What most do not realize is that there are no degrees in herpetology. There are, however, biologists and zoologists who come to specialize in the study of reptiles and/or amphibians. What Is a Herpetologist? The Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles has an online article, " Herpetology As A Career ." The SSAR is also developing a database of university herp programs. They also have an Interview with a Herpetologist that helps answer a lot of questions about what it's like to be a herpetologist and how to get there. A Note From Scott Moody, Herpetologist, Ohio University in Athens, Athens OH Remember that herpetologists are first anatomists, geneticists, ecologists, physiologists, biochemists, behaviorists, endocrinologists, etc. Traditionally, unfortunately, these fields have primarily used only a few animal models, for example, the house mouse or Norway rat. The study of biology is increasingly moving into a diversity of animal models, taking a comparative/evolutionary, or integrative, point of view, hence a greater interest in herpetology.

Also, the federal regulations for maintaining and caring for herps is not as costly and complex as for hairy mammals so many people change models. Animal holding facilities are now hiring people with a background in raising and breeding herps. Traditionally, fish and wildlife (conservation or hunt/reel) departments, as well as national forest wildlife biologists, EPA aquatic biologists, etc., at the federal and state level have primarily involved themselves with game animals (birds, mammals, fish), but are increasingly hiring people with expertise in the so-called non-game areas such as herpetology. This corresponds with environmentalists and conservation-oriented biologists finding that amphibians and reptiles make much better ecological-indicator species, thus more survey and experimental studies are being conducted using herps. These are the two areas of growth as I see it. But remember, the questions of science are much more important than the organisms by which the questions are answered. Get a thorough (breadth and depth) education in science. Scott Moody describes himself as being a herpetologist, anatomist, paleontologist, biogeographer, systematist, philosopher and science education specialist. Finding Herpetology Courses/Programs Not all colleges or universities offer courses in herpetology.

One of the prerequisites to such offering appears to be the presence on the faculty of biology or zoology professors who themselves have an abiding interest in the study of reptiles and/or amphibians and so develop some of their classes along those lines. Sometimes, the old ways still work best. Check out college and university guides, such as Peterson's Guide to Colleges and Universities . The other way is to find out where herpetologists are themselves teaching. Finding Herpetologists One way to find out which herpetologist is doing what kind of work and where they are is to head to your local university library and hit the stacks and look for the journals that typically publish articles related to herps. You may be able to access the library from home by going to the school's website and from there into their library, or use the resources available through your local public library's system to link into available library resources. Some resources are limited to access from the university's own library; you can check out what's available to the public by going and talking to the librarians there. Once you are into the library systems, you can do subject and name searches, or more general search, such as "herpetology".

Herp-specific journals include Herpetologica, Herpetology Review, and Coepia. You will find more information on these journals at my Herp Literature: Journals page. Herp-related articles also appear in journals like Physiological Zoology, Brain and Behavior, Journal of Nutrition, and other journals covering a wide range of subjects You can photocopy articles you find interesting. The most important bit of information for your purposes, however, is to note which biologists' work most interest you, then check the author information given in each article to find out where they are. Another way to find people is to do searches on their names in a metasearch engine such as Google or Teoma . School Listing The following lists for the United States and Canada comes from a information originally compiled in 1994. Some of the people may have moved on, new professors hired, courses added or dropped, etc. Always confirm before sending off your applications! Since all colleges and universities now have websites, it has become easier to do a lot of the research online. For a complete listing of university and college sites, check directories such as Yahoo's Colleges & Universities . Bowling Green State University Eileen M.

Underwood, Biological Sciences, BGSU, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, 419-372-2531 9/2006: Currently at BGSU there are multiple courses relating to herpetology. Undergraduate courses include: herpetoculture, reptile husbandry, amphibian husbandry, and readings (independent study) in herpetoculture. Beyond course work there is a sizeable herpetology lab run by Dr. Underwood that includes multiple genetics projects in snakes, geckos and lizards. The lab, which is staffed entirely by undergraduate and graduate volunteers, does hands-on research along with public demonstrations for schools and other organizations. (J. Shipman) Gary C. Packard, Dept of Biology, CSU, Ft Collins CO 80523, 303-491-5376 Courses: 1 undergrad, 0 grad, offered spring semester, alternate years Master's degree and PhD available. Undergrads can pursue research in herpetology as I.S. with the approval of a faculty sponsor/adviser.

Students concentrating in herps generally have interests in the ecological physiology of amphib and/or reps. Herp Faculty: Gary C. Packard, C. Richard Tracy Dr. Kraig Adler, Dept of Biology, 410 Thurston Ave, Cornell University, Ithaca NY 14850 1 grad, 1 undergrad (same course), alternate years. PhD available. Undergrads can pursue herp research with special arrangements with individual professors. Herp Faculty: Kraig Adler, Antonie Blackler, Howard Evans, George Kollias Dr. Paul Cupp, Jr., Dept of Biology, EKU, Richmond KY 40475-3124 1 grad, 1 undergrad, alternate springs MS in Biology; no concentration in herpetology as committee determines coursework Undergrads can pursue herp research as a special problems course. Herp Faculty: Paul Cupp Jr. R. Brent Thomas, Interim Chair, Dept. of Biol. Sci, ESU, Emporia, KS MS in Biology with a herp concentration. Atlanta, GA Master's degree and PhD available. Undergrads can pursue herp research with special arrangements with individual professors.

Although the Univ offers no specific herp courses, herps are covered in the Animal Biology (BIOL3840), Animal Biology Lab (BIOL3850), and Zoo Biology (BIOL4104) courses offered through the Department of Biology. Herps may also be part of zoo internships (BIOL4911/4912) by special arrangement. Herp Faculty include: Walt Wilczynski (Psychology) Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Dept of Biol, Cambridge MA 02138 1 undergrad; 1 grad (annually) PhD with concentration in herps Undergrads can pursue herp research with permission of faculty. Herp faculty: John E. Cadle. Dept of Ecology & Organismal Biology Terre Haute, IN 47809 1 undergrad/grad course in herpetology; Masters and PhD programs available. Undergrads and grads can pursue research in herps with a faculty mentor. Herp Faculty: Drs. MJ Angilletta, GS Bakken, and DK Hews John Carroll University Dept of Biology, University Heights OH 44118 M.S.

Biology, no concentration in Herpetology but undergraduates and graduates students often pursue research in herpetology. Herpetology (BL421/521) offered at the senior undergrad and graduate level. Herpetology faculty: Carl Anthony , behavioral ecology of herps; Chris Sheil , Developmental biology, ecology and systematics of turtles and frogs. Museum of Natural Science, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 1 undergrad (every other year), 1 grad (every year). Undergrads can pursue herp research with permission of faculty; no specific area of concentration. Middle Tennessee State University Department of Biology, Murfreesboro, TN 37132. 615-898-2847 M.S. in Biology. Both undergraduate and graduate research. Herp Faculty: Vince Cobb (snake ecology, natural history of herps, thermoregulation); Brian Miller; Matt Klukowski. Zoology Dept, 203 Natural Sciences Bldg MSU, East Lansing MI 48824 1 grad offered odd-numbered years. Masters & PhD available. Undergrads can pursue herp research via independent study with faculty.

Herp Faculty: J. Alan Holman Missouri State University (formerly Southwestern Missouri State) Department of Biology, 901 South National, Springfield, MO 65897 MS program. This is perfect for someone that wishes to pursue a masters because there is no competition with PhD students. Everything is geared toward masters-level research, from courses and field training to final testing and manuscript preparation. Faculty include: Don Moll (soon Emeriti)- a well known turlte ecologist; Alicia Mathis- a well known behavioral and amphibian biologist; Brian Greene- teaches herpetology course to grads and undergrads and an expert on snakes ecology and biology; Day Ligon- physiologist studies reptiles, specializing in turtles; - Robert Wilkinson (Emeritus but still around)- an amphibian expert and one of the founders of hellbender conservation; Lynn Robbins- wildlife studies. Ohio University/Athens Graduate Committee Secretary, Dept. of Biol. Sci., Ohio University, Athens OH 45701-2939, 614-593-2334 (FAX 0300) M.S.

and Ph.D - functional morphology, vertebrate paleontology, molecular systematics, population and community ecology, conservation biology, taxonomy and biogeography, etc. Herp Faculty: Scott Moody, classical systematics and comparative morphology of all herps, as well as lizard paleontology and biogeography; Steve Reilly, functional morphology and systematics of salamanders, lizards, etc.; Don Miles, ecology, statistics, behavioral ecology, conservation biology, comparative evolutionary studies, primarily of lizards; Willem Roosenburg, population biology, ecology, evolution, conservation biology, primarily of turtles; Matt White, molecular systematics (electrophoresis) of all herps, conservation biol.; Brent Palmer, reproductive endocrinology, physiology and anatomy of all reptiles and amphibians, studies of pesticide disruption of reproduction; Larry Witmer, paleontology and functional morphology of archosaurs; Jim Barron, population biology and ecology of reptiles. William Dunson, S.

Blair Hedges, Dept of Biol, 201 Shields Bldg, Box 3000, University Park PA 16802 1 undergrad, 0 grad, offered irregularly Undergrads can pursue herp research; there is no herp concentration. Herp Faculty: William Dunson, S. Blair Hedges Dr. David R. Long, Dept of Biol, Shippensburg PA 17257 1 dual level grad/undergrad offered alternate summers; Master's available Undergrads can pursue herp research if they are junior level and at least 2.5 GPA. Herp Faculty: David long, Ruthann Pitkin, Fred Howard Dr. Ronald A. Brandon, Dept of Zoology, Carbondale IL 62901-6501 1 dual level undergrad/grad, 1 grad seminar, offered fall alternate years Undergrads with GPA 2.5+ can pursue research in herps. MS an PhD in Zoology with research emphasis in herpetology.

Herp Faculty: Ronald Brandon Joshua Laerm, Museum of Natural History, Athens GA 30602 1 undergrad/grad (ECL 404/604) Ph.D available in Ecology. At this time, only grads can pursue research in herps. Associated with Savannah River Ecology Lab near Aiken, South Carolina. All herp courses through the Dept of Ecology. Herp Faculty: John Avise, Brian Chapman, Justin Congdon, Nat Frazer, J. Whitfield Gibbons, Chester Karwoski, Joshua Laerm, Jim Richardson, Robert J. Warren. University of Kansas Dr. William Duellman, Museum of Natural History, Lawrence KS 66045-2454 2 undergrad, 3 grad MS and PhD in Systematics and Ecology; PhD in Natural History Collection Mangement/Museum Studies. Undergrad can pursue herp research with permission of faculty. Qualified upper level undergrads may take two grad level courses (Amphib Biol, Reptile Biol) with permission from instructor; third course is grad seminar. Occasional special topics offered relating to herps.

Herp Faculty: William Duellman, Linda Trueb, Sally Frost-Mason, Henry Fitch (emeritus but still active in special projects), Joseph Collins (staff member at museum). Penny Jaques, Manager, Oranismic & Evolutionary Biol, Morrill Science Center, Amherst MA 01003-0027 3 undergrad, 3 grad; herpetology offered alternate years Masters & PhD in O & E Biology. Undergrads can pursue herp research with permission of faculty. Herp Faculty: William Bemis, Elizabeth Brainerd, Douglas Smith Profs. Lee & Savage, Dept of Biology, POB 248025, Coral Gables FL 33124 1 undergrad, 2 grad, alternate years Master's and Ph.D available. Undergrads can pursue research in herpetology with the permission of a professor. Herp Faculty:Julian Lee, Jay Savage, Marueen Donnelly Drs. Kluge, Nussbaum & Gans ,1220 Student Activities Bldg, Ann Arbor MI 48109 1 grad, 1 undergrad, offered annually Masters & PhD available.

Undergrads can pursue herp research if supervised by fac advisor. Herp faculty: Arnold Kluge, Ronald Nussbaum, Carl Gans Graduate Coordinator, 218 Tucker Hall, Div of Biology Sciences, Columbia MO 65211 1 undergrad, 0 grad, offered annually. Does not provide a herp degree per se, but provides research opportunities in behavior, ecology, genetics and evolution using amphibs as model systems. Herp Faculty: Carl Gerhardt, Richard Sage, Raymond Semlitsch James D. Fawcett, Dept of Biology, Omaha NE 68182 1 undergrad, 1 grad, alternate years; Masters available. Undergrads can pursue herp research under Supervised Research and Directed Readings. Herp Faculty: James Fawcett Dr. A.C. Echternacht, Dept of Zool, Knoxville TN 37996-0810 1 dual level grad/undergrad offered alternate fall semesters; Master's & PhD available Undergrads can pursue herp research if they are junior level and have had basic core biol courses.

Herp Faculty: AC Echternach, GM Burghardt, N Greeberg Dr. J.A. Campbell, Dept of Biol, POB 19088, Arlington TX 76019-0088 0 undergrad, 2 grad, annually; Masters & PhD available. Undergrads can pursue herp research if supervised by faculty advisor and also graduate thesis for MS degree. Herp Faculty: Jonathan A. Campbell, Eric N. Smith. More info: UTA Herpetology . R.B. Huey, Dept of Zool, Seattle WA 98185 0 undergrad, 0 grad; PhD available Although the Univ offers no specific herp courses, herps are covered in two vertebrate biol courses. Undergrads can pursue independent research in herps. PhD possible if student does research in herps. Pam Henderson, Grad Sec'y, 145 Noland Hall, 250 N.

Mills St, Madison WI 53706 0 grad/under grad; Masters & PhD available Although the Univ offers no specific herp courses, students can pursue reseach in herps as part of the Masters and Ph.D program. Herp Faculty: Warren Porter Drs. Russell and Rosenberg, Dept of Biol, Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2N 1N4 0 grad/under grad; Masters & PhD available Undergrads can pursue research in herps if supervised by an appropriate fac memb. The above grad degress would not be specifically in h erps but may be based on herp subjects. Herp Faculty: Anthony Russell, Herbert Rosenberg. Drs. JP Bogart and P Herbert, Dept of Zool, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1 1 undergrad, grad courses vary, offered annually. Masters & PhD available Undergrads can pursue research in herps with the acceptance of a fac member. Herp Faculty: JP Bogart, RJ Brooks, ED Stevens This is by no means a comprehensive list of schools with herpetology courses or herpetologists on staff.

The Information here was developed from original listing published in the the 1994-1995 Guide to North American Herpetology, published by the now defunct Reptile & Amphibian Magazine. Check out the annual publication of the Peterson Guide to Colleges and Universities , available in the education section of college and regular bookstores as well as university and college catalogs and some public libraries reference books section. If you find that some information in this document has changed, please let me know what the updated information is. If you have found another school with a herp program, please email me . Herpetologist Occupation Herpetologist Herpetologist Herpetologists are zoologists who specialize in the study of reptiles and amphibians, for example snakes, lizards, crocodiles, and frogs. Herpetology can be split into two broad categories: Basic herpetology: the study of reptiles and amphibians for its own sake Applied herpetology: the information gained in basic herpetology, applied to a particular situation Basic herpetologists study the origin of these animals, their interrelationships with other species, how they are affected by the environment, their behaviour, growth and development, genetics and distribution.

They sometimes also work in museums as taxonomists where they are responsible for naming and classifying species. Applied herpetologists work as curators of reptile parks or in the reptile sections in zoos, and in other positions managing the breeding of reptiles and amphibians. This work may also entail working in positions which require educating the public with regard to these species. As this is a highly specialised field, the advice of herpetologists is often sought by the media or by medical teams in the treatment of snakebite victims. This field does offer some entrepreneurial possibilities with regard to writing articles and appearing on nature conservation programmes on television, but it is unlikely that this would be a full-time option. How to Enter National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course Each institution has its own entry requirements. Compulsory School Subjects How to Become a Herpetologist Job search tips How to Become a Herpetologist Herpetology is a branch of zoology that focuses on the study of reptiles and amphibians. A herpetologist is a biological scientist that specializes in the study of a variety of reptiles, amphibians, turtles, and crocodilians. What does a herpetologist do?

Herpetologists focus on the study and examination of a variety of reptile and amphibian species. They identify and classify species and study how they interact with their environment and other animals. They spend a great deal of time researching the ecology, physiology, ethobiology, paleontology, and biogeography aspects of many different species. They also help other professionals and organizations understand the effect of venoms and toxins of a variety of species. Herpetologists assist in the conservation of species. Some herpetologists focus solely on research and they publish their findings in scientific journals. Others work for zoos, museums, universities, and wildlife agencies. Some also work as animal breeders. Click here to request information on the degree that is right for you What kind of training does a herpetologist need? Herpetologists typically need at least a bachelor degree in zoology with specialization in herpetology. A few colleges and universities have herpetology programs. Some herpetologists have postsecondary training in wildlife biology or other related field. Many aspiring herpetologists complete internships and volunteer experiences or obtain part-time jobs at zoos or natural history museums to gain practical experience and establish valuable contacts.

Some herpetologists have doctoral degree in zoology and complete a significant amount of fieldwork. Many herpetologists join herpetology organizations such as the Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles. Herpetologists must complete continuing education on a regular basis throughout their careers to keep their skills current and stay up to date with advancements in the field. What are the prospects for a career as a herpetologist? Employment of all biological scientists, including herpetologists is expected to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 21% through 2018. This is great news for anyone considering whether and how to become a herpetologist. The increase in the biotechnology field and growth of the herpetology field will drive job growth. Job prospects are expected to be great with some competition for research positions. Herpetologists with extensive experience will have the best job opportunities. Some job openings will stem from the need to replace herpetologists that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons. How much do herpetologists make? As of 2015, the average annual salary for herpetologists is $45,000.

Average annual herpetologist salaries vary greatly depending on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits. For anyone considering whether and how to become a herpetologist, this is an interesting field and one that would best suit people who have an interest in working with and learning about a variety of amphibians and reptiles. Herpetologists must have a solid understanding of the concepts and practices of herpetology and be familiar with a variety of species. Patience, detail orientation, critical thinking, and good problem solving skills are necessary traits. Herpetologists must have good communication and be able to work independently as well as part of a team. They must be able to work flexible hours in sometimes less desirable conditions. Becoming a Herpetologist Requires Skills & Training Start Today Are you serious about becoming a Herpetologist? Then you need to get the required skills and training to do it! To start your new career, first you must decide what school you want to enroll in, so you need to gather info about potential schools. Use the College Mouse Degree Search tool to find the right course and college for you, and get started towards your new dream job today!

If you want more personalized assistance, call (888) 389-7996 TOLL FREE to speak with a college advisor, who will help you find the best college for you. After you sign up for your course, make sure you fill out and submit the FAFSA so you can take advantage of any financial aid currently available to you! About Beatrice Harrison Educated at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Beatrice Harrison has extensive professional experience in career counseling, having helped a growing number of job seekers find fulfilling and meaningful careers in a variety of fields and disciplines. Share Your Comments & Feedback: Become a Herpetologist: Step-by-Step Career Guide Become a Herpetologist: Step-by-Step Career Guide An error occurred trying to load this video. Try refreshing the page, or contact customer support. 94% college-bound high school students …said it was important to communicate with colleges during the search process.

(Source: Noel-Levitz 2012 trend study) Select a school or program BS in Health Sciences: Professional Development & Advanced Patient Care Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science 0:55 Earn a Bachelor's Degree 2:03 Earn a Graduate Degree 3:18 Gain Experience Tell us about your current education Popular schools for you Video Transcript Herpetologist Career Info Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians and is generally known as a specialization or sub-field of biology. As a type of wildlife biologist, herpetologists might spend time in offices or in labs. A great deal of their time could be spent outdoors in the field, in possibly remote areas and in all types of weather and living conditions. In addition to working directly with reptiles and amphibians or performing research, herpetologists may also find employment as specialized writers and photographers. These professionals should have strong writing skills, organizational skills, communication skills, and active learning skills. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, zoologists and wildlife biologists in general earned a median annual pay of $59,680 in 2015.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree For those interested in finding employment before (or instead of) completing a graduate program in the field, the recommended education is a bachelor's degree. The degree needs to be in a field that provides students with a solid knowledge of biology, specifically with a focus on animals and ecology. Aspiring herpetologists must choose their biology program with care, because not every program offers courses related to herpetology. Course titles to look for include 'Herpetology' and 'Biology of Amphibians and Reptiles.' The National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management commonly employ those with a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field. Preference may be given to those who completed coursework in wildlife biology, zoology, or rangeland management. Participation in field courses or internships that advance a student's knowledge of and experience with reptiles and amphibians will help him or her become more competitive when applying for entry-level jobs and for graduate programs in the field. Taking courses in writing and photography could help develop a possible career as a herpetological writer or photographer.

Step 2: Earn a Graduate Degree Depending on career goals, a student who has completed a bachelor's degree program could then choose to complete a master's or a Ph.D. in the field. A master's degree program with a thesis option in herpetology would be a good choice. Likewise, an independent research project for a Ph.D. program may be completed in a herpetology subject. Those with a master's degree in the field may choose to work as research assistants at universities or acquire advanced positions with zoos, museums, and wildlife management organizations. Additionally, some teaching positions require only a master's degree. Although someone with a Ph.D. in the field would qualify to apply for the same jobs as those with a master's degree, most people with a doctoral degree choose to teach at a university and/or conduct independent research in herpetology. Those who possess a Ph.D. may teach courses in herpetology, biology, anatomy, or other related subjects in which the person might have an educational background. Prospective students might find it helpful to choose a graduate program that is known to have a large faculty involved in herpetology as well as high numbers of successful herpetology graduates. Step 3: Gain Experience The U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that zoologists and wildlife biologists, including herpetologists, need to accumulate experience before they can gain greater direction over their own research and more advanced duties. One way of gaining experience is by joining a university lab. Some university research laboratories allow researchers from a variety of educational institutions to participate in their herpetological research projects. One such laboratory is the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory that belongs to the University of Georgia. Participants come from many educational backgrounds, but all have some sort of specialization or qualifying experience that is related to amphibians and reptiles. Herpetologists are wildlife biologists, and as such, they must generally complete a master's or doctoral degree before they can go on to work in research, wildlife management, or education. How do I Become a Herpetologist? (with pictures) How do I Become a Herpetologist? Last Modified Date: 23 December 2016 Copyright Protected: These 10 facts about space will blow your mind Herpetology is the study of amphibians and reptiles, and it is a relatively limited field that is competitive to enter. It's not always clear-cut how people become a herpetologist since experts have approached this in a number of different ways.

Some rely only on field training to learn and understand this area of zoology and others have extensive formal training in wildlife biology or specifically in herpetology. Deciding to specialize in this work takes planning, thinking, and a willingness to train in a variety of areas. Perhaps the best-known herpetologist who was not university trained was Steve Irwin, also known as the Crocodile Hunter. Irwin's personality made him a popular television star until his untimely death in 2006. Irwin received his training by working for many years at the Australia Zoo initially founded by his father. He also had extensive fieldwork experience, particularly with Australian reptiles. Posthumously, he received at least one adjunct professorship, and he published extensively during his lifetime. Ad The usual path to become a herpetologist involves studying biology and possibly zoology with emphasis on studies in lizard and amphibian species. A few universities actually have programs, often at the master's level, that are specifically designed to specialize in herpetology. Since these are few in number, what many people do instead is find good wildlife biology or zoology programs where they can explore this interest scholastically.

Getting a bachelor's degree in biology or zoology is a good place to start before searching out programs that will support extensive studies on reptiles and amphibians. In addition to university study, many people participate in different types of fieldwork during or after formal education. Fieldwork to become a herpetologist can take many forms. Some people work in zoos or natural history museums, others volunteer for conservation agencies, and some might find internships studying specific reptile or amphibian species. Those who go on to get doctorates in zoology, or some type of biology could design their own studies, get grants, and undertake significant fieldwork. Others looking for work might participate in these studies, usually in summer months when school is not in session. It's pretty clear that education to a certain level is a defining factor for most people in this field. Many people can't become a herpetologist without it, but type of education may vary. A TV host like Animal Planet's Jeff Corwin refers to himself as a herpetologist though his master's degree is in wildlife and fisheries conservation.

Part of studies and claiming this title is specialization in studies and work, and another part may simply be determining that a person has sufficient education to claim the title without others in the field objecting. Ad Herpetology Colleges and Degree Programs Education and Career FAQs Herpetology Colleges and Degree Programs Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. This field is typically studied as a specialization within a biology, zoology or ecology program. Continue reading for information on degree programs, suggestions on selecting a school and career prospects. Schools offering Biology degrees can also be found in these popular choices . What You Need to Know For those who have warmed-up to the cold-blooded creatures of the earth, many options exist to learn more about our scaly friends, even though a pure herpetological degree might be hard to uncover. Programs Few exclusively focused on herpetology; bachelor's or master's in a related field Courses Biology, herpetology, zoology, wildlife conservation or ecology, environmental interactions with humans Future Career Options Research assistant, private conservation group or governmental agency technician, author, documentary filmmaker, animal breeder, teacher or professor, museum curator Are Degree Programs in Herpetology Available?

There are few degree programs in herpetology, so you'll likely need to choose a program in biology, zoology, wildlife conservation or wildlife ecology. If you choose an undergraduate major in biology or zoology, you'll have the option of a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program. You might consider a B.A. program if you're interested in working with conservation groups or government agencies, such as the National Wildlife Health Center or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. If you'd like to become a veterinarian, professional scientist, researcher, medical technologist, biology professor or secondary school teacher, you might consider a B.S. program. For advanced training, you can choose a Master of Arts or Master of Science in biology, ecology or zoology. These programs may offer you the flexibility to pursue your own research, which can focus on herpetology. If you choose a Doctor of Philosophy program in wildlife conservation or ecology, your research is likely to focus on the interactions between humans, herps and the environment. At the graduate level, your studies will be shaped by your research interests and by the facilities, field experiences and faculty mentors available to you. How Can I Choose a School?

Since so few schools offer degrees specifically in herpetology, you might want to look for those that offer herpetology courses within biology, zoology or environmental studies/ecology/conservation programs. If you pick a biology program, you might choose one with a strong emphasis on organismic biology. You also can look for schools with herpetologists on the faculty, schools associated with local herpetology societies (on- or off-campus) or schools where herpetology research is being conducted. To find graduate schools conducting herpetology research, you might read about current research in any of the major scholarly herpetological journals. What Careers Will This Prepare Me For? With a bachelor's degree, you could work as a research assistant or as a technician for a governmental agency or private conservation group. You could earn a living writing books and articles about herps, making nature documentaries about them or photographing them in the wild. Some zookeepers who work with herps hold a bachelor's degree, though others are required to have a master's degree. A few herpetologists also work as animal breeders or collect and sell snake venom. You might earn a professional degree such as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and work as a vet specializing in herps.

With a master's degree, you could teach high school biology, work at a museum as a collection specialist or work at a university as a laboratory assistant. With a doctoral degree in biology or zoology, you could become a college professor. Alternatively, you might work at a university as a researcher or at a museum as a curator. To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below: 1. Degree Options: Grand Canyon University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Grand Canyon University: Bachelor Degrees BS in Health Sciences: Professional Development & Advanced Patient Care Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science Online Programs Available Ashford University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Ashford University: Master Southern New Hampshire University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Southern New Hampshire University: Bachelor Degrees Capella University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Capella University: Master Bachelor's - Health Care Mgmt (ACBSP-accredited) Online Programs Available Colorado Technical University responds quickly to information requests through this website.

Popular programs at Colorado Technical University: Master Penn Foster Career School responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Penn Foster Career School: Certificates Indiana Wesleyan University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Indiana Wesleyan University: Bachelor Degrees B.S. General Studies - Life Sciences Associate Programs A.S. General Studies - Life Sciences Certificates Trident University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Trident University: Doctoral Penn Foster High School responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at Penn Foster High School: High School Diploma American InterContinental University responds quickly to information requests through this website. Popular programs at American InterContinental University: Master BSc (Hons) Zoology with Herpetology degree course Course Overview Reptiles and amphibians are increasingly appreciated as model organisms in many fields of zoology, and are the focus of growing conservation concern due to the alarming decline of many species. This means that we now require a new generation of trained professional scientists with specialised knowledge and skills relating to these animals in addition to a broad zoological background. This course combines traditional zoology with an emphasis upon amphibian and reptile biology and diversity, and is delivered along with aspects of conservation management and practices.

Students have the opportunity to undertake a herpetology field trip to Arizona at the beginning of the second year. Our aim is to provide you with a combination of a sound and broad zoological training that covers both pure and applied aspects of animal life, and specialist herpetological knowledge and skills. The provision of a diversity of laboratory and field zoology experience is an important component of the course, as is the acquisition of transferable skills (data analysis, group work, presentational and writing skills, IT skills). Bangor is a UK centre of research excellence in herpetology, with three full-time faculty staff specialising in amphibians and reptiles. You will not only enjoy the resources expected of a modern centre of animal biology but will also benefit from the proximity of an exceptional range of natural habitats where field work, an integral part of the degree, is conducted. We are unusual among British universities in having our own substantial zoology museum, and being part of the Environment Centre Wales which is a partnership venture between Bangor University and the Natural Environment Research Council’s Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (CEH). Why choose Bangor for this course? UK centre of research excellence in herpetology with three full-time faculty staff specialising in amphibians and reptiles.

Cutting-edge science is integral to our research programmes, and feeds through into the teaching environment. Our expertise covers animal biogeography and evolution, population genetics, molecular ecology and wildlife conservation. Bangor is the home of the Countryside Council for Wales (now part of Natural REsources Wales), as well as the divisional offices of the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, and the Environment Agency, all of which have close links to the University and to staff running this degree. Our excellent teaching facilities include a Natural History Museum containing a comprehensive collection of invertebrate and vertebrate material, marine and freshwater aquaria and facilities for holding reptiles. Bangor’s location makes it an ideal place to study biology as we have an extensive range of local terrestrial and aquatic habitats for field trips. A 4 year Master in Zoology (Herpetology) is available. Course content is for guidance purposes only and may be subject to change. Course Content Students are required to take 120 credits each year made up of lectures, practicals and interactive exercises, as well as field trips and tutorials in years 1 and 2. The final year includes a dissertation project, supervised by a staff member on a subject of your interest.

Modules become more specialised as the degree progresses and the number of compulsory modules varies between years. Assessment is by a mixture of formal examination and continuous assessment. Welsh medium modules are also available. All the lecturers are highly authoritative and enthusiastic on their fields of research. Samuel Anthony Mann What will you study on this course? Year 1 The first year is a general year for all of our zoology related degrees, which will introduce students to several important aspects of modern biology. Students are required to take two compulsory lecture modules, one module in key skills and one practical module. Students can choose to take 30 credits of optional modules. In addition there are tutorials with individual members of staff. Organismal Diversity (20): The module will present an overview of basic classification, form and function of the major groups of living organisms. Ecology and Evolution (20): Ecology is about understanding the dynamic changes in individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems in relation to each other and the physical environment, and understanding their evolutionary processes. Biology Practical Module (20): Students will undertake a range of practicals from molecular and cell biology, through to animal function and ecology. Field work is included.

The practicals will coincide with the appropriate subject area in the lecture modules. Research Skills (20): The module is aimed at developing a range of skills commonly used by natural scientists, including basic mathematical manipulation, data interpretation, and presentation, experimental design and statistical analysis, IT skills and effective use of the literature. Tutorials (degree specific) (10): Tutorials will be held by individual members of staff to groups of 6-7 students and involve discussions that are degree specific. Tutorials will develop communication skills. Optional modules: Animal Design (20) Further information on each module can be found on our website . We are continuously incorporating student feedback and novel developments into our degrees, which can result in changes to the module content in all years. Modules for the current academic year Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change. Find out what our students are currently studying on the Zoology with Herpetology Modules page. Programme Specification Programme specification: C304 Careers & Employability Herpetologists work mostly in government or non-governmental organisations, ecological consultancy and zoological institutes as well as Universities.

A range of career paths is available within these organisations, including research, conservation breeding, wildlife monitoring and assessment, implementation of conservation management plans and evolutionary biology. Bangor really appealed to me because I realised I could keep helping out with conservation work and projects in Anglesey and Snowdonia, which you wouldn’t get in a big city. Zoology Employability and the School of Biological Sciences As a graduate with a good degree from the School of Biological Sciences, a variety of careers will be open to you. There are careers for which a Biological Sciences degree is essential, and careers for which Biological Sciences provides a useful base. In addition, there are careers open to graduates and postgraduates from any discipline. These include, for example, careers in management training, accountancy, teaching, nursing, social work, the police and the armed forces. However, employers are usually looking for general or transferable skills, and a Biological Sciences degree arguably provides a unique combination of these. Find out more on the School's 'Careers for our graduates' pages . Opportunities at Bangor The University’s Careers and Employability Service provides a wide range of resources to help you achieve your graduate ambitions.

Developing your personal skills and enhancing your employability while at university is becoming increasingly important in today’s job market. The Bangor Employability Award (BEA) The Bangor Employability Award enables students to build on their transferable skills through the recognition of activities they become involved in during their university life. Students can gain points towards the award through extra-curricular activities such as volunteering, attending workshops or actively participating in the Students’ Union’s clubs and societies. The Award is open to everyone and taking part in the scheme can make a major difference to your performance in the graduate job market. Internships Bangor University runs undergraduate and postgraduate internship schemes twice a year, which allow students to work in a professional environment while learning relevant skills and earning money. There is a wide range of internships you can get involved in, from medical research to marketing and promotion. Internships offer valuable experience in a professional work place. Student Volunteering Not only is volunteering is worthwhile – it also improves your employability and widens your experience. The Students’ Union has a dedicated Student Volunteering Office (SVB) which currently contributes a total of 600 hours each week, promoting a close relationship between the university and the local community.

Find out more on the Student Volunteering pages of the Bangor Student’s Union website. Working while you Study The JobZone is the University’s Student Employment Bureau; they advertise the following opportunities: Graduate jobs – Local, National and International Full-time, part time, permanent and temporary jobs Work experience / internships To access these opportunities you need to register with the Careers and Employability Service. Entry requirements for this course For 2017 entry (new UCAS tariff for courses starting in September 2017): 136-112 tariff points including a level 3 qualification* in Biology and usually one other science subject. (Please note, we do not consider Psychology as a science subject for the purposes of study in the field of Biological Sciences.) *Level 3 qualifications include A levels, BTEC, Access, Irish Highers, International Baccalaureate, Welsh Baccalaureate, Scottish Advanced Highers and others – for a full list, please refer to the new UCAS tariff at We also welcome applications from mature applicants, individuals with European qualifications and international applicants (subject to minimum English language requirements). For 2016 entry: Mature age students with relevant experience.

General University entry requirements Here at Bangor we accept students with a wide range of qualifications and backgrounds. We consider each application individually. All students need to have good basic skills and the University also values IT and communication skills. As part of the University’s policy we consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same grounds as all other students. To study a degree, diploma or certificate course you’ll be asked for a minimum of UCAS Tariff points. Normally, all GCE A and AS levels, VCEs and Key Skills can be used to calculate your overall points. For a fuller explanation of the UCAS Tariff Points, please see the UCAS website. Qualifications currently not in the Tariff Framework: Access courses and mature entry: We welcome your application if you’re taking a recognised Access course. We also consider applications from other older students who can demonstrate the motivation and commitment to study a university programme. Each year we enrol a significant number of mature students. For more help and advice about being a mature student at Bangor, please visit the Study at Bangor site .

International students entry requirements For information and further detailed guidance on entry requirements for International Students, including the minimum English Language entry requirement, please visit the Entry Requirements by Country pages on the International Education Centre section of our website. More information E-mail for General Admissions: admissions@bangor.ac.uk or write to: Admissions Office Telephone: +44 (0) 1248 382028 How to apply through UCAS Apply online via UCAS UCAS stands for Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. All university applications are processed through UCAS and then passed on to the universities listed. Students may apply for a maximum of five courses. For Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary courses students are only allowed to apply for four courses. The application form is found on the UCAS website , under ‘Apply’. The early closing date is October 15 for all Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary students. The main closing date for all applications is January 15. Your Personal Statement Writing your Personal Statement is the part of the application form that requires most work.

You are only allowed 47 lines or 500–550 words to explain why you wish to study the course and the skills you have that are essential for university study. To write a successful personal statement for your UCAS application you must have a good understanding about the course and its content. Remember that you write only one personal statement for your five choices. Make sure that the courses are similar, if not the same, and make sure that you do not mention a specific course or university. Read our advice on how to draft a winning personal statement or watch our video guide. After you’ve applied You should keep an eye on your application on UCAS ‘Track’. Offers from universities will appear on track and you will be able to accept or decline offers. You can only reply when you have received all your decisions. The types of reply you can make are firm acceptance and insurance acceptance. Usually students reply in early May. International Student? If you are an international student, our International Student pages offer further information on applying. As an international student applying to study one of our undergraduate programmes you can; or apply direct to Bangor through our online direct application system or apply with the help of one of our recruitment agents Erasmus student?

We receive around 350 exchange students every year from all over the world. 45% of these students come from Europe and the remainder from as far as Singapore, South Korea and Australia. The University's International Exchanges Office is responsible for welcoming these students . Confused about your next steps? Take a look at our Going to University website for information and advice on getting ready for university. Why study with the School of Biological Sciences? Bangor has a long tradition in teaching and research in the Biological Sciences. Research submitted by the School of Biological Sciences has been recognised as being within the top 20 in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework (REF 2014). Our students enjoy being here and expressed their praise for the quality of the teaching and pastoral care provided by the School of Biological Sciences The staff have a strong commitment to providing excellent teaching and care for their students. We have excellent facilities for the study of both flora and fauna – these include snake, lizard and fish collections a Botanic Garden and a Natural History Museum. We offer a wide range of degrees in the Biological Sciences encompassing “traditional” disciplines such as Zoology and Biology to Biology with Biotechnology.

We offer the opportunity to study at a university in the United States for all or part of the second year. Studying at Bangor A top 15 university The National Student Survey (NSS) results place Bangor amongst the UK’s top 15 universities (excluding specialist institutions) for student satisfaction. This reflects the University’s focus on overall student experience. Enjoy a university experience that’s amongst the best in the UK The guaranteed accommodation , student support , low cost of living and stunning location all contribute towards this. Take advantage of the Bangor Student Experience (ranked in the top 20 in the Times Higher Education Student Experience Survey) with free membership of student clubs and societies , a new international experience programme and employability award scheme. Unrivalled location Choose to study in one of the best places in the UK to be a student. Bangor’s location – close to the mountains and the sea - has been described as ‘the best university setting in the UK’. Investment in facilities Benefit from continued investment in facilities and services – with an exciting new Arts and Innovation Centre , new Halls of Residence, and improved sports facilities amongst recent developments.

Guaranteed accommodation We guarantee accommodation for first year students who apply within the deadline and hold Bangor as a firm choice– in university accommodation that’s rated the best in the UK (What Uni Student Choice Awards). Other Courses related to Zoology with Herpetology Biology BSc (Hons) (3 years) Biology MBiol (4 years) Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles – Research, Conservation, Education Journal of Herpetology now featuring continuous publication January 18, 2017 We are excited to announce that Journal of Herpetology has begun continuous publication, where articles are published officially online shortly after they are accepted.

… [Read More...] 2017 Meritorious Teaching Award in Herpetology January 13, 2017 Sponsored by: American Society of Ichthyologists & Herpetologists (ASIH), The Herpetologists’ League (HL), and the Society for the Study of Amphibians & Reptiles (SSAR) The Herpetology Education Committee is seeking nominations for the 2017 Meritorious Teaching Award in Herpetology, which … [Read More...] Zhao Ermi, respected Chinese herpetologist January 6, 2017 We are sad to announce the passing of Ermi Zhao (赵尔宓), a colleague, friend, scientist and world-renowned herpetologist, last month in December 2016. Zhao Ermi is best known as the former deputy director of the Chengdu Institute of Biology, who presided over a prodigiously productive program of new … [Read More...]

Question: What would a herpetologist study
Answer: Reptiles