What to Do After M.Sc. in Zoology – Career Options, Jobs & Study Paths
Hello students!
Today, we’re going to explore an important question: What career path should you follow after completing your post-graduation in Zoology?
First of all, congratulations on successfully earning your M.Sc. degree! It’s a big achievement, and now comes the crucial part—deciding what’s next. Often, while pursuing our master’s in subjects like animal physiology, biology, ecology, evolution, and conservation, a thought keeps popping up: What will my career look like after this?
The good news is, a degree in Zoology opens the door to a wide range of rewarding opportunities—from research and teaching to government services, high-paying corporate roles, and specialized industry jobs.
Let’s take a step-by-step look at the possibilities.
Step 1: Set Your Goal
Before diving into applications or exams, ask yourself a few key questions:
Do I want to work in a laboratory or in a field environment with animals?
Am I passionate about research and innovation?
Where would I prefer to settle—in India or abroad?
Is my priority a high-paying job, or do I see myself in academia and teaching?
By answering these honestly, you’ll get clarity on which path suits your skills, interests, and lifestyle.
2. Popular Career Options After M.Sc. in Zoology
A. Research & Academic Careers
If you want to explore research after doing great work in thesis then you can enter into the research fields.You can do Pd.D , Teaching or high level research jobs like
Ph.D. in Zoology or Related Fields – Specialize in areas like wildlife biology, genetics, ecology, entomology, marine biology, or biotechnology.
Postdoctoral Research – If your goal is to do work in a high-level research position, then postdoctoral work can add credibility in your career.
University Teaching – After taking master or Ph.D., you can start your career as assistant professor in related colleges and universities.
B. Wildlife & Conservation Jobs
If you are nature lover and want to do conservation related work then you can try following path like -
Wildlife Biologist – Study animal behavior, habitat needs, and population trends.
Conservation Scientist – Work on projects to protect endangered species.
Zoologist in National Parks/Forests – Conduct field studies and manage wildlife reserves.
Marine Biologist – Study ocean ecosystems and aquatic life.
Employers: WWF, IUCN, UNEP, National Parks, Wildlife Trusts.
C. Government Sector Jobs
There are many Government jobs which provides job security and good benefits to you like
UPSC Indian Forest Service (IFS) – Manage forests and wildlife.
State Forest Departments – Wildlife officers, foresters.
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) – Research positions.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) – Environmental regulation roles.
Public Service Commissions – Assistant professors, research officers.
D. Applied Sciences & Industry Jobs
If you prefer corporate or laboratory settings, your M.Sc. in Zoology can lead to:
Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Research – Work in R&D for vaccines, drugs, and diagnostics.
Forensic Science – Specialize in wildlife crime investigations.
Environmental Consulting – Conduct environmental impact assessments.
Agriculture & Pest Control – Help design eco-friendly pest management strategies.
Employers: Biocon, Dr. Reddy’s, Syngene, Thermo Fisher Scientific.
E. Teaching in Schools & Colleges
If you enjoy explaining concepts and interacting with students:
School Teacher – Teach biology in high schools (requires B.Ed. in some countries).
College Lecturer – Apply for lecturer roles in degree colleges (often requires NET/SET qualification in India).
Science Communicator – Work in museums, science centers, and educational NGOs.
F. Careers Abroad
Many zoologists move abroad for better research funding and opportunities.
Research Positions in Universities – US, UK, Canada, Australia.
Wildlife Conservation Projects in Africa or South America.
Marine Research Institutes in Coastal Countries.
Tip: Publish research papers during your M.Sc. to strengthen your profile.
3. Higher Education Options After M.Sc. in Zoology
If you’re not ready to jump into the workforce, further studies can make you more competitive.
Ph.D. in Zoology or Life Sciences – Best for research and academic roles.
Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management / Wildlife Conservation – Short-term specialization courses.
M.Tech in Biotechnology / Bioinformatics – Combines zoology with applied tech.
Master’s in Environmental Science / Marine Biology – Broaden your expertise.
4. Competitive Exams to Consider
Some of the most popular exams for M.Sc. Zoology graduates are:
5. Freelancing & Entrepreneurship in Zoology
If you like independence:
Wildlife Photography & Filmmaking – Combine science with creativity.
Science Blogging & YouTube – Share zoology content online.
Eco-Tourism Ventures – Lead wildlife tours and safaris.
Educational Content Creation – Prepare study materials for biology students.
6. Salary Expectations
Salaries depend on the job type and location.
Research Assistant – $25,000–$40,000/year (USA) | ₹3–6 LPA (India)
Wildlife Biologist – $40,000–$70,000/year (USA) | ₹4–8 LPA (India)
College Lecturer – $35,000–$60,000/year (USA) | ₹4–7 LPA (India)
Corporate Biotech Roles – $50,000+ (USA) | ₹6–12 LPA (India)
7. Tips to Succeed After M.Sc. in Zoology
Build a Strong CV – Highlight fieldwork, research papers, and internships.
Network – Join zoology forums, LinkedIn groups, and professional societies.
Learn Tech Skills – GIS mapping, data analytics, and lab techniques.
Publish Research – Increases your credibility for higher positions.
Stay Updated – Follow latest discoveries in zoology and conservation.
8. Conclusion
An M.Sc. in Zoology doesn’t limit you—it opens a variety of career paths in research, conservation, education, government, and industry. Your choice should depend on your passion, long-term goals, and lifestyle preferences.
Whether you want to become a wildlife biologist saving endangered species, a professor shaping young minds, or a research scientist discovering new species, the field of zoology offers endless opportunities to make an impact.
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Thank you for the helpful blog, "What to Do After M.Sc. in Zoology – Career Options, Jobs & Study Paths." I want you to know that your information is invaluable for aspiring candidates. Keep sharing valuable updates!
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