Herpetology

[blackcrystal22]

So I was wondering today. If I wanted to become a herpetologist what different professions could I do with that degree?

Also, does anyone know any Grad Schools in the IL area that offer herpetology degrees?

I was also looking around for anti-venom labs in IL. I remember someone posting pictures of visiting one in IL and I don't remember what it was called and I cannot find the thread again. I wanted to look into volunteering/working/internships at one to see if any of them offer any kinds of those kind of opportunities.

Thanks a lot!

[blackcrystal22]

No ideas?

[Hock3ymonk3y]

I think it would be best to study zoology because usually herpetology is a self-proclaimed thing and it will give you access to a wider variety of professions should you ever choose to stray away from reptiles. I too want to bwcome a herpetologist and have diligently been researching. A simple search on goodle yeild many helpful results. Here is a small list of known herpetology schools, if you wish http://www.reptilechannel.com/reptil...versities.aspx and here is a list and description of the careers that can come from herpetology http://www.reptilechannel.com/reptil...-reptiles.aspx

Hope this helps,

[the_Ryno]

If I remember correctly I say something online a while back saying that not many schools offer Herpetology as a major. I could be wrong though. At the time I was looking to try to help decide what I plan on majoring in.

[Jyson]

In my research I found that there are no degree programs for herpetology, and that herpetologists are basically biologists who specialize in herpetology. Atleast that is what I've read.

[West Coast Jungle]

Here is a link with some interesting info.
http://ssarherps.org/pages/herpeducation.php

I myself would like to take some herp classes for my own education and not a degree.

I think we need more vets that major in herps. There are just not enough around.

[mainbutter]

Yeah, no real such thing as a Herpetology degree as far as I know from accredited universities and colleges..

Your best bet would be something in the realm of biology, zoology, environmental sciences etc.

As far as professions.. Pretty much all professions that have to do with herpetology are research oriented. Basically the people into that sort of thing spend their lives being academics. Herpetologists really are just professors and researchers who spend all their time doing grant proposals for the chance to get some funding for research.

Now if you want to work with reptiles as part of your profession, you don't necessarily need to be a "herpetologist". There are people who make a living breeding reptiles. It's not easy and never a sure thing to be successful, and a certain risk you take when you start a business. You might consider looking into vet school. My one warning on that one is that if you think being a doctor is hard, imagine being a doctor that doesn't get paid as much, has just as many education costs, and has to treat numerous different species.

Don't extract venom for a living. You will get bitten, and it will suck A LOT.

I hope that helps a little.