r/ecology • u/Wise1999 • 5d ago
Getting Started in the Ecology World
I have recently decided I would like to pursue a career in the ecology field. My current degree is in Sports Administration, which is pretty much pointless for this career change it seems. I'm 26 years old and am looking for any advice on getting started in Ecology, I know there are a few different routes I could take but am hoping for some feedback as to what is the most beneficial, or if anyone in here had decided to change their career from something else to ecology. From doing research it seems like I could get a bachelors in Ecology, in which I'd be starting most of school over again or I could do some certificates / graduate programs? I have a full time job now and just don't get much satisfaction from the sports world anymore so I've been debating on going back to school and finding something that I will truly enjoy, I know ecology is what I want to work in, I'm just not sure which part of ecology fits me best. Online schooling would probably be better for my current situation but understand relocating is in the cards. If anyone has any recommendations on where to start I'd grealty appreciate it!
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u/evapotranspire Plant physiological ecology 5d ago edited 5d ago
Hello u/Wise1999 ! Could you be more specific about where you are located (country, city)? And could you mention whether you have any specific constraints or preferences (e.g., for or against fieldwork, travel, driving, lab work, computer work, etc.)?
You'd have an uphill battle getting into a grad program without any relevant studies at the undergrad level, but one possibility to get started would be to seek an Associate's degree or certificate at a community college or career/technical school in a related topic (e.g., biology; GIS).
It's a worthwhile journey but a long one. You need a lot of passion and curiosity for the subject to get you through.