Depending on your career choice, it is quite likely that you will need a college degree. To specialize or become a zoologist, veterinarian, entomologist, or graduate school professor, you will need a doctorate. Having a good understanding and even an enjoyment of science and math goes a long way. Workers in all animal care professions, from shelter workers to those with an advanced degree, will benefit from having a background in the social sciences, such as psychology and sociology. Even though you will be working with animals, knowing how to interact with people is essential in all animal service careers.