why someone should take an ecology course as an undergraduate

It is really important and useful for undergraduate students to get practical experience doing ecology. Gaining hands-on experiences is a great way to learn specific skills, help get a feel for the day-to-day work of ecologists, and establish contacts for future jobs. During the school year or over summer breaks:

Full Answer

What is it like to study ecology at University?

You will (or course) read and research factual information; but you will also be interacting with academics and professionals who have studied and worked in jobs where ecology has been applied in very practical ways. The study experience can involve observing and analyzing ecosystems that you are interested in.

What is ecology and why is it important?

Our Ecology course examines how the Earth’s biological systems respond to environmental change, and why this is important at scales ranging from microorganisms to global climate shifts.

Why study ecology at York?

Explore our virtual open day experience and find out more about life at York. Our Ecology course examines how the Earth’s biological systems respond to environmental change, and why this is important at scales ranging from microorganisms to global climate shifts.

Why study ecology at Duke University?

In fact, the ecology faculty at Duke University span the complete range of ecological inquiry, from individual organisms to populations and communities of interacting species to ecosystems to the entire biosphere.

Why should we study ecology at undergraduate level?

Top reasons for studying Ecology: You can play your part to save the world: Ecologists are the people who protect and conserve natural habitats. You can make a very real contribution to the protection of the natural world as an Ecologist. You can travel: Ecology can take you all over the world.

What is the purpose of studying ecology?

Ecology is the study of the environment, and helps us understand how organisms live with each other in unique physical environments.

Why do you want to be an ecologist?

A. Most people pursue a career in ecology because they enjoy nature, certainly not to make money or achieve social status. The best qualities to have are an intense interest in what makes the living world work.

What can a degree in ecology get you?

7 of the Best Ecology Careers to ConsiderField Ecologist. ... Restoration Ecologist. ... Park Naturalist. ... Marine Biologist. ... Environmental Consultant. ... Environmental Protection Specialist. ... Natural Resource Manager. ... Ready to Start Your Ecology Career?

Is ecology a good degree?

Ecology is a great 'best of both worlds' career, with the majority of roles having around a 50/50 split of fieldwork and desk-based work.

What skills are needed to be a ecologist?

SkillsPassion for the natural environment.Interest in fieldwork.Taxonomic skills.Analytical skills.Problem-solving skills.Computer literacy.Excellent oral and written communication skills.High standards of accuracy and attention to detail.More items...•

How do ecologists help the environment?

Ecologists study these relationships among organisms and habitats of many different sizes, ranging from the study of microscopic bacteria growing in a fish tank, to the complex interactions between the thousands of plant, animal, and other communities found in a desert. Ecologists also study many kinds of environments.

What kind of jobs are there in ecology?

The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook provides information on employment, wages, training and qualifications, and work environment: Biological Scientists. Conservation Scientists and Foresters. Environmental Scientists and Specialists.

Where can ecology take you?

Alternatively, with a role in government, you will use your ecological expertise to create and develop important policies. Professional and learned organisations, think tanks, NGOs, government bodies, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

Are ecologists in demand?

There are currently an estimated 89,500 industrial ecologists in the United States. The industrial ecologist job market is expected to grow by 11.1% between 2016 and 2026.

Should I take biology or ecology in dental school?

Eh... No. You should take a science class more relevant to human phys, genetics, anatomy and such. Ecology isn't likely going to benefit you in dental school at all, unless you're just looking for an easy A to boost your GPA.

Is ecology good for dental school?

Ecology will help you immensely on the DAT if you still had not taken it. I took ecology last semester and loved it. I think your experience with the course is highly dependent upon the instructor. Overall, I would recommend you take the class, as it will give you a broader appreciation toward the field of biology. You will have ample life science courses in dental school, so take ecology now while you still have the chance to.

What is Duke University's ecology?

In fact, the ecology faculty at Duke University span the complete range of ecological inquiry, from individual organisms to populations and communities of interacting species to ecosystems to the entire biosphere. Ecological principles also play a major role in generating solutions to problems of applied interest, ...

What is an undergraduate biology major?

As a result, undergraduate Biology majors need a thorough grounding in ecology not only to pursue graduate study in academic ecology, but also as preparation for careers in applied fields such as environmental management,ecotoxicology, environmental law, conservation biology, and ecological agriculture. The undergraduate concentration in ecology ...

What is the study of the distribution and abundance of organisms?

Ecology. Ecology is the scientific study of the distribution and abundance of organisms, the interaction among organisms, and the interactions between organisms and their abiotic environment. Ecologists try to understand the inner workings of natural ecosystems and the species they contain.

How many capstone courses are required for a biology major?

You must take at least 1 full 400-level or higher biology 'Capstone' course or other approved capstone course. Independent study can count towards this requirement if it is a second semester continuation.

How many electives are required for biology?

At least 3 electives must be courses listed or cross-listed in Biology at the 200-level or above. A maximum of 2 or 3 approved alternate electives in the biological sciences may be counted toward the major (depending on Gateway sequence). A maximum of 2 independent studies or tutorials may count toward the major.

Can you double count biology courses?

You cannot double count the course taken to fulfill the Biology Area requirement above. You may count an independent study taken with an area faculty member, or with approval from the concentration area advisor. 1 biology elective course of your choosing.

Why is it important to get practical experience in ecology?

It is really important and useful for undergraduate students to get practical experience doing ecology. Gaining hands-on experiences is a great way to learn specific skills, help get a feel for the day-to-day work of ecologists, and establish contacts for future jobs.

Why are ecologists important?

The knowledge you help build will be valued by other scientists, teachers, policy makers, citizens, and managers – – for you will be helping society make sound decisions and contributing to our understanding of how nature works. Ecologists contribute significantly to our understanding and preservation of the natural world.

How do ecologists contribute to the world?

Ecologists contribute significantly to our understanding and preservation of the natural world. They provide knowledge to assess ecological issues in a wide range of environments, to solve problems in meeting the food, shelter, and health needs of humans, and to enrich the lives of people everywhere through a greater insight into the mysteries ...

What do ecologists need to know?

Regardless of the specific focus of their degrees, all ecologists need a broad background in the life and natural sciences. An understanding of the physical sciences, including geology, chemistry, physics, and engineering also is helpful.

How to get a job in biology?

Work as a teaching or lab assistant for a biology or ecology course. Spend a summer at a field station. The Organization of Biological Field Stations is a good place to search for opportunities. Get a summer or part time job with a park, government agency, or nature center.

What are some jobs that require ecological principles?

Some of these job titles include: consultant, planner, analyst, program manager, education coordinator, computer programmer, lobbyist, and lawyer.

Should I go to graduate school for ecology?

Now that you know you are interested in pursuing a career in ecology, you need to decide whether to go on to graduate school or find a job. Remember, you can always go to graduate school after gaining work experience.

What Degree Programs are Available in Ecology?

Ecologists study living organisms on different levels and the way they interact with each other and the surrounding environment. Though rare, associate's degrees in this area may be found through a few schools and are usually offered in specific areas, such as watershed ecology.

What Can I Learn In an Undergraduate Degree Program?

Undergraduate degree programs in ecology combine general education with ecological topics, such as resource management, environmental restoration and biological systems. Some bachelor's degrees offer you the opportunity to focus your studies in such areas as wildlife conservation, natural resources or agriculture.

What Can I Learn In a Graduate Degree Program?

Graduate degree programs in ecology are widely available and typically include specializations in different areas, such as human ecology, theoretical ecology or wildlife.

What Can I Do With My Degree?

Job opportunities for ecology graduates vary depending on degree level. With an undergraduate degree, you may qualify for a career as a teaching assistant, or you may choose to work in the field as a research technician, wildlife specialist, program coordinator or outdoor educator.

What is human ecology?

Human Ecology's applied, pre-professional curriculum is organized around contemporary social topics and issues - Design and Technology; Development and the Life Course; Economic and Social Well-being; and Human Nutrition, Health and Genomics - not simply academic disciplines.

What is the curriculum for human ecology?

Admissions. Human Ecology's applied, pre-professional curriculum is organized around contemporary social topics and issues - Design and Technology; Development and the Life Course; Economic and Social Well-being; and Human Nutrition, Health and Genomics - not simply academic disciplines.

What is the human biology major?

The Human Biology, Health, and Society (HBHS) major provides a strong background in human biology while preparing students to investigate health issues from a social science perspective. The biological bases of health and illness of individuals are critically examined in the context of how social, psychological, economic, cultural, design, and policy aspects affect individuals, communities, and populations. In addition, coursework in Nutritional Sciences allows students to comprehensively and holistically focus on health and wellness. Innovations in health and a changing approach to its management are redefining the healthcare industry and the roles of health professionals. The breadth and depth of the HBHS major prepares students for work in this complex and dynamic environment.

What is the nutrition science major?

The Nutritional Sciences (NS) major provides a thorough foundation in the life sciences and teaches students how the relationship between food and nutrition affects the health and well-being of individuals, families, and populations.

What is the study of population ecology?

Population ecology examines dynamics such as how these populations grow, interact and how they are limited by the resources around them by competition and by predation.

What is ecosystem ecology?

Ecosystem ecology looks at how energy and nutrients flow through communities and the effects that energy and nutrients have on those communities. It looks at trophic (feeding) levels and how solar energy flows from plants to herbivores, carnivores and detrivores. THE STUDY EXPERIENCE.

What are the different types of ecology?

TYPES OF ECOLOGY. Behavioural Ecology. Behavioural ecology looks at how behaviour effects the survival, reproduction and growth of a species. The way individuals of a species behave can affect the survival of a population.

What is an ecosystem?

The word “ecosystem” was coined by Sir Arthur George Tansley in 1935. He used the word to stress the concept of each habitat as an integrated whole. A system is a collection of interdependent parts that function as a unit and involve inputs and outputs. The major parts of an ecosystem are:

What is the study of the relationship between plants and animals and their physical and biological environment?

Ecology is the study of the relationship between plants and animals and their physical and biological environment. It plays an important role in conservation, wetland and natural resource management, forestry, agriculture and fisheries, as well as climatological, human and urban interactions in today’s changing world.

1. Exploring career directions

Undergraduate research helped influence Shadd Cabalatungan toward a career in medicine. (John Griffin/Stony Brook University)

2. Building transferable skills and enhancing resumes

Senior Julie Beppler developed skills that employers seek as she did research on restaurant menus. (Gregory Urquiaga/UC Davis)

3. Learning to publicly advocate for and defend work

Senior Kathryn Green presented her policy research on California's consumer rebate for clean vehicles to a showcase for alumni, donors, regents and other friends of the University of California in Los Angeles on April 20. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

4. Getting a leg up on graduate or professional school

Becky Fu, a 2012 graduate of UC Davis, credits undergraduate research with helping her get into Stanford University, where she is completing doctoral studies in genetics. (Gregory Urquiaga/UC Davis)

5. Contributing knowledge and impacting the world

Students discuss their research at a poster session at the Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities Conference at UC Davis. (Jason Spyres/UC Davis)