Is it worth it?

[spotfin]

I am fortunate to work in fisheries for a state agency. I love my job and there are days I can't believe I get paid to do the work I do. However, I don't think an online degree is the way to go, especially for the amount you will pay. One big issue I see for you is the lack of field trips/lab work for fish/wildlife classes. I have a 4 yr degree and most of the fisheries and wildlife classes had labs that involved getting out in the field. You can read all the books in the world and ace all the tests, but if you don't have experience getting you hands wet, you won't go far.
Another thing is the competition for jobs, even entry level ones, is very great. We occasionally hire for seasonal jobs and receive a mountain of applications.
Also, with todays economy and budget cuts it is even harder to get your foot in the door.
Good luck with any direction you go though.

 

[mhathy77]

I agree with getting a more general degree in biology or animal behavior and then taking on a concentration in ichthyology. This should really open up your options. Also, this should give you more freedom to find a school in PA. I went to Pitt and got a biology degree and they do some really awesome stuff at the lab site at Pymatuning. Look into it. I happen to love my job and would do it if I won the lottery, but that is not the case for everyone and sometimes paying the bills takes precedent. I wish you the best of luck with whatever you choose.