How to become an ecologist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You'll need a degree or postgraduate qualification in a subject like:
- ecology
- conservation biology
- zoology
- marine or plant biology
- environmental science
- botany
- ecology and environmental sustainability
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a postgraduate ecologist degree apprenticeship.
This typically takes around 3 years to complete.
You'll need a qualification and experience in an ecological science to apply.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- a degree in a relevant subject for a degree apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to get experience and may improve your chances of finding work. You can also build up contacts within conservation, which will be useful when looking for jobs.
You can find volunteering opportunities with:
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Career tips
You can search for jobs in ecology and related fields at environmentjob.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the British Ecological Society, which offers mentoring from experienced ecologists, research news, and education and job search support.
Further information
You can find more details about careers in ecology through the: