Best way to get into conservation management?

[kerrycharles]

Hi
Im currently an undergrad ecology student. Im looking at moving into Masters and have always been looking at a research degree that will lead me into conservation research. But ive just recently been thinking about whether a management type job would suit me better- im outgoing, love to be outdoors and dont want to be stuck in an office writing reports for the rest of my life! But at the same time i still want to be able to progress academically.
Is it best to do a more practical management focused masters program if you want to get into management (eg. Otago unis conservation and wildlife management masters program) rather than the traditional research focused degree??
Eventually i really want to get involved in conservation in Africa. Is it best do postgraduate studies in this specific area (maybe do a program through a uni in South Africa) or is it just as good to do wildlife management in NZ then work my way into that area- i suppose im worried that if i start off specific it will be difficult to move back into NZ at a later date and have relevant experience for the conservation/management needs in NZ.

Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated!!

[Bruce McKinlay]

Hi Kerrycharles,
Well you have certainly covered the options in terms of potential choices.

Management positions will have a focus on solving applied problems preferably in a short time frame.  So thinking you can progress academically in a management job is an illusion unless you are prepared to work all night every night to keep up and fluke your study choices so you get good robust results promptly.

Most management positions will have a report writing component.  In fact if you find a mangement job that doesn't have an office component I can think of quite a few DOC colleagues who will race you for it.


I've no experiencce of how it works in Africa.

Good luck

Bruce