Cetologists

Who and what are Cetologists? Cetologists are a branch of marine biologists. They study dozens of types of species that fall under the scientific order Cetacea (what we know as whales, dolphins, and porpoises).

Why become a Cetologist? If you are wondering as to why you would think about entering the field of Marine Biology for a career, just think about what goes into the field. One of the largest attractions to the field is the fieldwork that researchers are privy to conduct. Cetologists (whale biologists) get the chance to get out on the water and conduct their observations on the whales firsthand. Then, after returning from the field, they simply input the findings into a computer and continue their research from inside a lab. Combining the work of getting out on the water and the labwork needed to organize the data collected.

How to become a Cetologist: They advise to take as many science courses as are available along with a strong computer science and mathematics background.These courses include biology, chemistry, ecology, fish biology, zoology, and conservation courses. Courses in statistics are critical to study in this field. It takes a minimum of four years to earn Bachelor of Science degree and 2-6 more years to earn a Masters or Doctoral degree. A scuba certification, driver's and boat operator's licenses, and a plethora of boat handling experience are all prerequisites needed.

What do they earn? Salaries vary greatly among whale biologists, and graduate degrees and experience will increase the salary, but they generally remain low for marine biologists considering the amount of education required and the high competition for the positions. According to oceancareers.com, a marine biologist's salary ranged from $40,000 with an entry level of experience and education, up to a little more than $60,000 with extensive experience and education.