Graduate Certificates in Conservation

Career summary: Conservation Scientists and Foresters

Average Salary

$62,410

National Average, Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook

Good

3% job growth by 2028, which is below average

Earn a degree in conservation from an accredited college

One of the best ways to prepare for a career in conservation is through a college education. A Graduate Certificate will help you develop entry level skills, general conservation know how and the basic conservation experience you need to start your career off right. You may also consider a Master's in Conservation to help you take your education and career to the next level. Please select conservation school below.

Overview

Conservation original

Why would I want a conservation degree?

Conservation scientists manage, improve, and protect the country’s natural resources. They work with private landowners and federal, state, and local governments to find ways to use and improve the land while safeguarding the environment. Conservation scientists advise farmers, farm managers, and ranchers on how they can improve their land for agricultural purposes and to control erosion.

Job Description

What does a conservation scientist do?

Conservation scientists typically do the following:

  • Monitor forestry and conservation activities to assure compliance with government regulations and habitat protection
  • Negotiate terms and conditions for forest harvesting and land-use contracts
  • Establish plans for managing forest lands and resources
  • Monitor forest-cleared lands to ensure that they are suitable for future use
  • Work with private landowners, governments, farmers, and others to improve land for forestry purposes, while at the same time protecting the environment

Salary

How much do conservation scientists make?

The median annual wage for conservation scientists and foresters was $62,410 in May 2019. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,270, and the top 10 percent earned more than $98,060.

Career Outlook

How popular are conservation scientist jobs?

Increases in funding, more retirees, and new programs should create opportunities for foresters and range managers. Restoring lands affected by fires also will be a major task, particularly in the southwestern and western states, where fires are most common. Job prospects are highest for conservation scientists and foresters who have a strong understanding of geographic information systems (GIS).

Career Path

How do I become a conservation scientist?

Conservation scientists and foresters typically need a bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field, such as agricultural science, rangeland management, or environmental science. Although graduate work is not generally required, some conservation scientists and foresters get a master’s degree or Ph.D.

Most forest and conservation technology programs are accredited by the Society of American Foresters. There are accredited programs in every state.

Salary and career outlook data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Learning Format

Location

or

Conservation Schools (0)

...Please wait... more schools are loading... Spinnera