Is becoming a zoo curator right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do zoo curators do?
Career Satisfaction
Are zoo curators happy with their careers?
Personality
What are zoo curators like?

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How to become a Zoo Curator

Becoming a zoo curator typically requires a combination of education, experience, and specialized skills. Below are some general steps that can help individuals interested in pursuing a career as a zoo curator:

  • Education: A bachelor's degree is typically the minimum requirement for entry-level zoo curator positions. Common majors include biology, zoology, animal sciences, or a related field. Pursuing an advanced degree, such as a master's or PhD, can provide additional opportunities for career advancement.
  • Experience: Gaining experience in animal care or management is important for aspiring zoo curators. This can be done through internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions at a zoo or aquarium. Some institutions may also offer specialized training programs or fellowships for individuals interested in pursuing a career in zoo management.
  • Specialized Skills: In addition to a strong background in animal care, zoo curators must also possess a range of specialized skills. These may include budgeting and financial management, fundraising, grant writing, exhibit design, and public relations.
  • Networking: Building professional relationships with other individuals in the field can be helpful for career advancement. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences and workshops, and seeking out mentorship opportunities can all help individuals establish themselves within the zoo and aquarium community.
  • Advancement: Career advancement for zoo curators typically involves taking on increasing levels of responsibility within an organization. This may involve moving from an entry-level position to a more senior management role, or transitioning from a specialized area of focus to a broader leadership role within the institution.

Fellowships
There are several fellowships available for individuals interested in pursuing a career in zoo management or curation. These fellowships typically provide a combination of hands-on training and professional development opportunities, and can be a great way to gain the skills and experience necessary to succeed in the field. Here are a few examples of fellowships for zoo curators:

  • Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Management Fellowship: This fellowship is designed to provide recent graduates with hands-on experience in zoo and aquarium management. Fellows are placed in a two-year program at an AZA-accredited institution, where they work alongside experienced professionals and receive training in areas such as animal care, conservation, and exhibit design.
  • Smithsonian National Zoo Conservation Fellowship: This fellowship is designed to provide recent graduates with training and experience in conservation biology and zoo management. Fellows work on conservation research projects at the Smithsonian National Zoo, and receive training in areas such as animal care, exhibit design, and public education.
  • Disney Conservation Fund Fellowship: This fellowship is designed to provide emerging conservation leaders with training and experience in the field. Fellows work on conservation projects at one of several partner institutions, including zoos and aquariums, and receive training in areas such as wildlife management, community engagement, and environmental education.
  • American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) Professional Development Grant: This grant is designed to provide zoo professionals with funding for professional development opportunities, such as attending conferences, workshops, or specialized training programs. AAZK offers several different types of grants, including the Gail Gresser Memorial Professional Development Grant and the Sarah B. Ginn Memorial Grant for International Professional Development.