Natural Resource Conservation
Career Guide
Here are just a few of the jobs you can get with this degree.
Environmental/land-use planner
Help prevent conflict among people or within ecosystems by applying your knowledge of these relationships to plan land use and change in an efficient and ethical way. From water availability to social conditions, you will analyze all the impacts to provide sound advice.
Information or education specialist
Bring the science of conservation to the public with your communication skills and understanding of conservation practices, science and regulations. Be the face of good land use decisions and help create understanding among landowners, concerned citizens and others.
Interpretive naturalist
Blend science with other aspects of learning, including the arts, to educate and inform the public about natural resources. You will combine communication skills with a science background to lead discussions as well as create awareness and understanding in parks, visitor centers, nature preserves and more.
Public affairs specialist
Help the general public understand changes in rules and laws, collaborate with scientists, and natural resource managers to ensure an accurate and understandable message is given to the public through education, media and other outlets.
Wilderness/backcountry manager
Help protect some of the world鈥檚 most precious, and remote, natural resources by working in unique settings. Ensure that all those accessing the backcountry understand the impact of their activities, implement strategies for human interaction with these resources and oversee the sustainable use of these areas.
Conservation officer
Protect wild animals, plants and entire ecosystems as a law enforcement officer dedicated to our natural resources. You may work for a wildlife agency, as a park ranger or for other entities working to enforce environmental rules and regulations.
Park ranger
Protect park resources in a variety of ways. As a park ranger you may work in law enforcement, education, emergency response, science or administration. No matter what your role, the bottom line is to protect and promote the park.
Learn Outside
- Participate in local sustainability activities and service learning.
- Observe what environmental education and stewardship looks like by studying abroad in places like Costa Rica, Norway, Australia and New Zealand.
Course Checksheets
Your NRC degree has two options to get you closer to your professional goals. Many courses fulfill requirements in both, so declaring an option isn’t immediately necessary. Download course checksheets for the current academic year.