Anyone with a passion for aquatic life and their habitats may find themselves interested in aquatic ecology jobs. Aquatic ecology is essentially the study of living organisms in aquatic settings and the relationship of those organisms to their environment as well as external stimuli. If you want to enter this field, you have several options, many of which will require you to earn a college degree. Entry-level positions, however, may not require a college education, though just about all will require you to complete a high school education or equivalent qualification.
While you are in high school, pay close attention to science courses such as biology and chemistry, as these will be very relevant topics if you want to enter the field of aquatic ecology. High school is also a great time to apply for internships or volunteer opportunities that will allow you to develop your skills and knowledge in the field of aquatic ecology. If you do not live near water sources, you may have to travel to get to such internship opportunities, though many can be found right in your region, as almost all cities and towns have water sources that can be examined, studied, or experimented with.
Once you graduate from high school, you should seriously consider attending a college or university to get a degree in aquatic ecology if it is offered. Other relevant courses of study may include biology, chemistry, environmental studies, wildlife ecology, and even forestry. Choose your course of study carefully, and meet with an academic advisor who can give you recommendations as to what degrees you should consider for your intended career path. While you are in college, look for internships and apprenticeships that may allow you to work with scientists in the field.
Do a bit of research into the various jobs you would be interested in applying for once you graduate. Take note of the job qualifications listed in the job descriptions, especially regarding any specific certifications or licenses you may need to earn. Find out if your school offers prep courses for such exams, as well as where and when you can take these exams. Build your credentials as much as possible while you are in school so you will have a better chance of being hired for a position in the aquatic ecology field once you graduate. Internships and apprenticeships are great opportunities to develop contacts in the field that may be able to help you secure work after graduation.