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Comparative Psychologist

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Human Services cluster Counseling and Mental Health Services pathway.

Insider Info

Additional Information

Comparative psychologists must hold either a master's degree or PhD in psychology or animal behavior.

It typically takes a minimum of four years to complete an undergraduate honor's degree and another two years to complete a master's. Those who pursue a PhD can expect to spend another one to two years in graduate school.

In order to work in applied settings, psychologists must be licensed by their state. Priority is given to those who have a doctoral degree. University professors and research psychologists don't necessarily have to be licensed. But in order to teach, professors must have a PhD.

In high school and early university, students should concentrate on biology, psychology, sociology and animal behavior.

Advanced degrees often include research work in a laboratory or in a zoo, wildlife park or natural habitat setting -- and anyone working closely with chimps is expected to know some sign language.