Individuals who are interested in the effects of climate change and environmental conservation may be interested in studying ecology at a college or university. Ecology programs concentrate their instruction on biodiversity, environmental law, forestry, and pollution in order to help students think about environmental issues on a global scale.

Students can select individual courses in accordance with their interests. Students may also structure a series of classes in a way that might achieve specific objectives such as improving job skills, pursuing new careers, or obtaining certificates or degrees.