WHAT IS ECOLOGY?
Ecology is the study of organisms and their environment, including the distribution and abundance of organisms, how living things interact with each other and their environment, and biological and physical processes of these organisms. Ecological interactions studied range from the impact of predation on animal populations to the effect of pollution on where a particular plant species may grow.
Ecology is the scientific basis for a range of environmental issues, particularly those involving endangered species, for which ecologists conduct studies to determine the relationship between the species and its deteriorating environmental conditions. Environmental advocates then use these studies as the backbone for reasons to protect and preserve our natural environments.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS?
All ecologists need a broad background in the life, physical and natural sciences, including geology, chemistry, biology, and physics. Mathematics, statistics, and computer applications may also be included in the curriculum.
Ecology is often found as a stand-alone department at colleges and universities, but more often it falls as a major within the biology school or department. Some specific courses we've seen include:
- Biochemistry
- The Biophysical Environment
- Population Ecology
- Genetics
- Plant Physiology
- Plant Anatomy
- Zoologym
- Vertebrate Structure and Function
- Evolution
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Great Resources
on Ecology
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- Ecological Methods
- Fish Biology
- Plant Morphology
- Botany
- Insect Classification and Identification
- Limnology
- Field Entomology
- Wood Structure and Identification
- Vertebrate Anatomy
- Zoology
- Taxonomy
- Ornithology
- Population Genetics
CAREERS AND SALARY OUTLOOK
Ecology graduates will find that there are careers in a variety of areas in ecological management or research. Ecologists conduct research out in the field and in the laboratory; teach students and the general public at universities, high schools, museums, and nature centers; apply ecological knowledge to solve environmental problems by investigating ecological issues; interact with affected communities; write environmental impact statements; and design sustainable practices. Specific job titles we've seen include:
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Career Guidance
from EnviroEducation.com
 Ecology is both a science and an art, says educator Melissa Jurgensen-Armstrong. Follow her career and educational path in this interview. >>>
 From account executive to Ecological Restoration Team Leader for EPA's Great Lakes Region, learn about Karen Rodriguez's inspirational career change here. >>>
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- Field/Research Technician
- Laboratory Assistant
- Environmental Consultant
- Environmental Planner
- Program Manager
- Forester, Ranger or Park Naturalist
- Wildlife Specialist or Biologist
- Natural Resource Manager
- Program Scientist
- Environmental Analyst
- Field Ecologist
- Research Coordinator or Administrator
- Outdoor Educator
- K-12 Teacher
The Bureau of Labor Statistics includes ecologists in the general category of biological scientists. For this profession, median annual earnings were between $43,110 and $82,080 in 2002. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,930 and the highest 10 percent earned more than $102,930. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, beginning salary offers in 2003 for bachelor's degree recipients averaged $29,456. Offers for those with master's degrees averaged $33,600, and Ph.D's were offered an average of $42,244. Check out full report from BLS on careers in Ecology here.
RELATED AREAS OF STUDY
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