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.

A Doctorate of Philosophy, or PhD, may require eight years or more to complete, as well as a dissertation. In most fields, the possession of a PhD qualifies the holder to become a professor of a chosen subject. There are many different programs available.