Ecology is the study of living things and their environment.
Ecology is a scientific discipline that studies the relationship between various living organisms and their surroundings. While not common in colleges and universities around the country, a few online degree programs are available in the field. An online master's degree in ecology may be ideal for students who have professional and personal obligations preventing them from attending courses on campus full-time.
Description
Master's degree programs in ecology require that students complete at least 30 credits in order to graduate. In addition to coursework, ecology programs at the graduate program also require students to complete a thesis project. Students in these programs learn about ecology and environmental biology, and opportunities are available to integrate basic and applied research. Emphasis is also placed on the quantitative approaches to ecological theory.
Admission
Just like on-campus programs, students interested in enrolling in an online master's degree in ecology must complete a bachelor's degree in a science or engineering-related area. Students must have a strong grade point average at the undergraduate level and take the Graduate Record Examination. The admission requirements also include the submission of letters of recommendation and statement of objectives or an essay.
Curriculum
The curriculum in an online ecology master's degree program requires students to complete core and elective courses in the field. Professors who teach the on-campus courses also educate students online. The courses cover topics involving environmental health, biological wastewater treatment, water treatment process and storm systems design. Elective opportunities allow students to focus on a particular area within ecology, such as energy analysis, hydraulic systems design, public works planning and natural resources and environmental policy.
Technology Requirements
Online learning takes place through a virtual classroom, and students and professors communicate through email, discussion boards and chat rooms. Students are able to learn the material through online lectures and tutorials, podcasts, readings and texts, and CDs/DVDs. In addition to having a computer and Internet connection, students may also be required to have an up-to-date operating system, speakers and webcam.
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