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 PhD, or Doctorate of Philosophy, is the highest degree awarded in many academic fields. Generally requiring a research project and dissertation, as well as several years of study, a doctorate degree qualifies the holder as an expert in a chosen field.