Mammology is the study of mammals. This is a very diverse subject, encompassing many different aspects of mammals. Many mammologists choose an even further focused path in areas such as natural history or anatomy and physiology. Careers with a mammology focus generally lean toward university professor positions, but research positions are also a possibility. A doctorate is almost always required for these positions, and as the positions are limited, the competition is fierce. According to the North Carolina Association for Biomedical Research in 2006, average salaries for mammologists are between $10,000 and $60,000 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2009, a starting salary of about $33,000 was most common.
Entomology is the study of insects. This track has more practical purposes in the community and can lead to positions with community and governmental organizations for the prevention of pests in homes and farmland. Private organizations also hire entomologists for selling insecticides or conducting research for insecticide companies. This specialization requires intense schooling with most organizations and employers requiring at least a master's degree and at times a doctorate. Teaching positions are limited in this field, as most universities do not have an entomology department. According to the North Carolina Association for Biomedical Research in 2006 the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2009, average salaries for entomologists are between $29,260 and $71,270 annually.
An animal behaviorist studies the relationship animals have between members of their own species and the outside world. Students in this field will study the evolution of animal behavior and how outside occurrences, such as humans, affect them. Careers in animal behaviorism have a broad range of opportunities, anywhere from a museum to a zoo to a research facility. These positions are normally more hands-on with animals and are good for students looking to interact with their subjects. According to the North Carolina Association for Biomedical Research in 2006, average salaries for animal behaviorists are between $35,000 and $95,000 annually.
Primatology, the study of primates, is a field that scientists from many different backgrounds specialize in. This creates diverse group of colleagues working together on a common passion. Most careers will work heavily with research, but there are positions in zoos and museums for hands-on experience as well. The most common position for a primatologist is in a university as a professor or research associate, however. According to the North Carolina Association for Biomedical Research in 2006, average salaries for primatologists fall around $50,000 annually.