I’m currently a PhD candidate in public policy (emphases on climate change and computational research methods) and I’m conducting a significant amount of research that either directly involved ecological modeling or considers the influence of ecological indicators on decision making. I want to develop a more formal understanding of ecological research so I can join an environmental NGO/think tank/academic department as a biodiversity researcher.

I can’t afford (timewise) to complete a full 2-year master’s degree in ecology to get up to speed. Do any of you know of any 10-18 month master’s degrees? They don’t need a significant research component (though it’s nice to have) and I’m willing to pursue an online degree or move abroad (based in the US). Bonus points for likelihood of scholarship/assistantships.

Inb4 “this is a dumb idea”: I’m fully aware that this is a strange move with many potential downsides and opportunity costs. I’m also aware that the better route is to seek a post-doc.