Want to Become an Ecologist? Here are Some Useful Tips!
There are many Science fields, but if you’re looking to unlock the secrets of Nature, then becoming an ecologist is the way to go.
Ecology is a complex career path – you need to take the field seriously.
If you’re unsure how to start, then you’ve come to the perfect place. In this article, we’ll be providing students with a few tips to help them become an ecologist.
What is an Ecologist?
It’s important for you to have a better understanding of what an ecologist is.
An ecologist holds a career in sustainability and is the type of scientist who studies nature and the impact of all life on the overall environment.
However, it’s not just a single career; there are various sub-categories you can choose to specialize in. Here’s a quick list of the different types of ecologists:
- Population
- Community
- Landscape
- Conservation
- Molecular
We’ll briefly describe what each category has in store, so you can have an easier time deciding which is best study for you and your needs and requirements.
Specializing in population ecology will have you research various species and how their size impacts their own environment and others.
Community ecologists study the many types of ecosystems and how different species impact them.
Landscape ecology focuses on how migrating species impact the environment.
Conservation is the field where you research and work to keep endangered species alive.
Lastly, molecular ecology is where you study pretty much every living organism at a molecular level.
Prepare Your Finances
Now that you know what you need to be researching, let’s get into what you can expect to pay. The price does vary depending on a few factors, but ecology students in the US can expect to pay around $35,000 on average for their undergraduate program.
Ecology is a very competitive field – and the job isn’t easy either. In most cases, employers want to see applicants who have dedicated themselves to acquiring their master’s degree. A master’s degree program can cost approximately $30,000. You may not have the necessary finances to afford this, which means you’re going to need some outside help.
One of the best ways you can finance your education is to apply for a student loan. Student loans give you the opportunity to pursue the education you need.
In the US, you’ll need to fill out your FAFSA, or free application for federal student aid. This will calculate how much loan money you’ll be able to receive as it takes your COA (cost of attendance) and EFC (expected family contribution) into consideration.
Obtain Your Certification
To become a reputable ecologist, you’ll need to acquire your certification.
If you’ve recently obtained your bachelor’s degree and have at least one year’s experience, then you’ll want to aim for your Associate Ecologist Certification. This is offered by the Ecological Society of America, and it tests your ability to do fieldwork and how well you understand what impact humans have on the environment.
There are other forms of certification that cover the sub-categories we listed earlier. Make sure to research what you need for your chosen field and how much you need to pay for it.
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Warm regards,
P.S. Don’t forget to see what you can do to help slow climate change – click here (it’s free)
