Majors at the University of Connecticut
Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Students majoring in ecology and evolutionary biology may pursue either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelors of Science degree. Students study the interrelationships of organisms and their environments and the historical developments of different biological groups. Studying ecology and evolutionary biology gives one a better understanding of the natural world. Students must take at least one animal diversity course. There are a variety of subjects to choose from, ranging from the biology of fish to studying entomology. Plant diversity is also a required subject in which students must take at least one course with options such as the Evolution of Green Plants or Aquatic Plant Biology. Another required course is Physiology, and there are recommended courses in various other subjects that students should take as well. Students in this major will gain the experience with field and lab work that is necessary for successful graduates in this program.
Academic Department
Nature of Work
Within the field of ecology and evolutionary biology, there are many career options available. One can work on basic research doing lab work or be involved in more applied work. Applied research can include studying species harvested for cosmetics or for use in pharmaceuticals, or how harvesting affects species' population. Part of the job may be doing fieldwork in a variety of locations, working in academics doing research, or publishing findings. In order to work in the academic field, teaching may be necessary, as well as obtaining a Masters or Ph.D degree. Communicating through the writing of research results and papers would be a part of the job, as well as presenting and explaining the results of the research.
Sample Job Titles
- Evolutionary Biologist
- Ecologist
- Research Specialist
- Environmental Planner
- Research Biologist
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- Biologist/Ecologist Risk Assessor
- Marine Conservationist
- State Park Employee
- Eco Risk Assessor/Ecotoxicologist
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Potential Employers
Some potential employers are non-profit and advocacy groups, such as conservation movements or environmentalist groups. Additionally, employers can be found in the private sector. These include museums, aquariums, and environmental consulting firms. Other employers that hire people with this major are schools and colleges and the government including the local, state and federal levels.
Useful Skills
Communication skills are valuable in this field because the ability to share findings among colleagues is most important. Other useful skills include analytical, mathematical, and logical thinking abilities. Enjoying performing research and problem solving are also important in this field of work.
Getting Experience
There are several different ways of getting experience in this field. UConn offers courses that require extensive lab work and fieldwork. It is recommended that students majoring in EEB take at least four of these courses. Other ways of gaining experience include job shadowing, a co-op, or an internship. Through job shadowing, a student is exposed to the intricacies of a particular job in this discipline. A co-op or an internship gives the student valuable hands on experience.
Employment Opportunities
There are several employment possibilities for an EEB major. One can work for the local, state, or federal government doing a variety of jobs. Another employment possibility is within the field of education. There are various companies that need EEB majors in order to determine the impact that their company has on the environment, and to conduct research, or consult on issues.
Internet Links
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