Obtaining a bachelor’s degree is the most common path to working in the field of wildlife ecology. In fact, a four-year degree often entails more than just lectures and lab work; many programs provide opportunities for working abroad and internships to help you advance your wildlife ecology career. Candidates for advanced ecology positions, such as directors or managers, are frequently required to have a master’s degree.
For incoming college freshmen, bachelor’s degrees in a field related to wildlife ecology are the best options. Biology or a specific concentration, such as conservation biology, are good major choices. A minor in computers or mathematics could complement a biological science major; wildlife ecology research frequently involves counting animal populations and analyzing the data using computer programs.
Before moving on to advanced studies that may include opportunities to study and work abroad, freshmen and sophomore college students must pass all of the general science courses required for their specific major. These one-of-a-kind trips are typically taken during the spring or summer break, and students can travel to a specific region, country, or continent with wildlife ecology needs, such as studying abroad in Africa to collect data on an endangered rhinoceros species. The student’s wildlife ecology resume has been enhanced by the addition of international work experience as a result of this experience.
Internships are similar to working abroad, but they are usually limited to local businesses and organizations so that the student can gain experience working in local wildlife ecology. Furthermore, some colleges require internships as a requirement for graduation, whereas study abroad opportunities are typically optional. Some students will be offered full-time, paid positions at the wildlife organizations where they interned.
Those interested in wildlife ecology should know that after earning a bachelor’s degree, their career options are not limited. Some ecologists pursue a master’s degree in order to advance their careers. The wildlife ecology industry requires leaders who can direct new research processes to improve data collection; a master’s degree provides the experience and education required for such a position.
Working in this field also allows you to work for the government, a university, or a non-profit organization. Students are usually given a list of different organizations that need ecologists to choose from when looking for internships, and they should try to match their internship to their career goals. Interning for a government body, such as a local city park management firm, is a good option for students interested in working for a state park. Gaining experience in a government niche will provide you with more job opportunities and help you advance in your career.