Your Guide to a Career in Ornithology
Ornithology is the scientific study of birds. This guide provides an interactive overview of the qualifications, skills, career trajectory, and earning potential for aspiring ornithologists.
The Educational Journey
Becoming an ornithologist requires a significant commitment to education, typically culminating in a postgraduate degree. This path equips you with the specialized knowledge needed for research and conservation. Click on each step below to learn more about the focus at each stage.
Select a Stage
Click on an educational stage to the left to see detailed information about coursework, research opportunities, and typical outcomes.
Essential Skills for Success
A successful ornithologist combines deep scientific knowledge with practical field skills and strong interpersonal abilities. This chart highlights the core competencies you'll need to develop. Hover over each point to understand its importance in the field.
Mapping Your Career Path
An ornithology career can take many forms, from academia and research to conservation and public education. This timeline illustrates a typical progression, though many paths are possible. Click on each stage to see common roles associated with it.
Select a Career Stage
Click a stage on the timeline to learn about typical roles and responsibilities.
Earning Potential
Salaries for ornithologists vary based on education level, experience, and employment sector. Use the filters below to explore the average annual salary ranges for different types of organizations.