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Ecology - A.B.

General Information

Degree & Major:

Ecology - A.B.

College Name:

Odum School of Ecology

Contact:

Amanda Rugenski
Undergraduate Program Coordinator
atrugenski@uga.edu
(706) 542-9314

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Degree Requirements

College-wide Requirements

University-wide Requirements

Description:

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Ecology is an interdisciplinary degree bringing together the natural and the social sciences, experiential learning, communication and group skills—in the context of understanding the environment to solve problems. Our program builds upon a strong core of Ecology courses that are shared with the existing Bachelor of Science degree and adds courses that allow students to consider human dimensions of ecological issues and become better equipped to synthesize and communicate challenges and solutions.

Ecology, the study of organisms and their environment, is an interdisciplinary science. Ecologists work at the interface of basic science fields such as biology, geology, chemistry, and mathematics, and may draw more broadly on subjects such as economics, public policy, environmental law, anthropology, and geography. There is a growing need to understand how organisms and the environment interact and to examine the influence of humans on the earth and its biodiversity.

Students may elect to expand their experience through study abroad programs, internships with the Institute of Ecology or other sponsors, or independent research opportunities. These activities are strongly encouraged but are not required for the degree.

Details

Career Opportunities:	This degree is designed to prepare undergraduates for career tracks in applied ecology. These professions can include environmental law, science journalism, environmental consulting and policy work. Other potential careers include sustainability officers for corporations or public affairs specialists in government agencies or non-governmental organizations. These careers may require additional training in graduate or professional schools.
Expectations of Transfer Students:	Students should complete the science foundation courses for the major, which includes one semester of general chemistry equivalent to CHEM 1211-1211D/1211L, pre-calculus, a year of majors-level biology. Students with this background will be ready to enroll immediately in major classes.
Study Abroad:	Costa Rica Tropical Ecology Program and other OIE programs.
Internships:	Students can receive credit (ECOL 4940) for approved internship experiences. Please contact Misha Boyd for details.
Service Learning:	All students participate in and complete a service learning project in the Environmental Practicum course during their senior year.
Student Organizations:	Ecology Club
Available Graduate Programs:	Law Schools, Graduate programs in Ecology, Public Policy, International Affairs, Journalism.