WHAT IT TAKES: A bachelor's degree in biology, wildlife ecology,
or a related field. Depending on your goals, a master's or Ph.D. in
biology may also be necessary. Field research experience and knowledge of GPS and GIS are helpful.
TOP SCHOOLS: Colorado State University, Cornell University, UC Berkeley and Davis; many top universities have strong biology programs. STARTING PAY: $35,000 WHO'D BE INTO IT: Scientifically inclined types who want to work outside and protect wildlife HOT SPOTS: Most of the Western states, though jobs can be found wherever there is wildlife INTERNSHIP OR SUMMER JOB: Local, state, and federal public-land-management agencies often have summer field positions; professors also offer field research and monitoring opportunities. |