Career Options

The Environmental Sciences degree builds on the interdisciplinary strengths in the natural and social sciences. Students learn broadly about environmental sciences from a variety of perspectives, while deeply exploring one area of specialization. Experiential learning is a key part of the degree program since participating in research or an internship provides an opportunity to actively engage in the field of environmental sciences outside the classroom.

Degree: B.S. in Environmental Sciences
Specialties: Applied Ecology / Conservation, Resources and Sustainability
Environmental Sciences Faculty

Potential career options in Environmental Sciences

Use the career planning resources to learn about the potential career options below.
(some occupations may require further education/licensure)

Aquaculturist
Arboriculturist
Bioresource Engineer
Cell Biologist
Conservation Officer
Conservationist
Consultant
Consumer Counselor
Ecologist
Editor
Educator
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Scientist

Farmer/Rancher
Field Representative
Fire Scientist
Fisheries Biologist
Food Inspector
Forester
GIS Specialist
Landscape Designer
Lobbyist
Naturalist
Park Manager
Park Ranger

Plant Scientist
Policy Analyst
Rangeland Management Specialist
R&D Manager
Research Technician
Soil Scientist
Surveyor
Toxicologist
Waste Management Specialist
Water Quality Specialist
Wildlife Biologist
Writer
Urban/Regional Planner

Where are OSU Environmental Sciences alumni working?

(Data obtained from LinkedIn)

Fish Biologist, ODFW
District Soil Scientist, Deschutes National Forest
Environmental Health Specialist, Deschutes County
Chief Operating Officer, Laird Superfood
Recreation Manager, Seventh Mountain Resort
Project Developer, EDP Renewables
Research Coordinator, Resource Innovation Institute
Resource Conservationist, Columbia Soil and Water Conservation District
Public Utilities Specialist, Bonneville Power Administration
Strategic Communications, Water Systems Consulting

Where have OSU students participated in experiential learning (internships/research/etc.)?

US Forest Service
Bureau of Land Management
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
US Department of Agriculture
Oregon State University

Job Search

In addition to our general job, internship, and volunteer search resources, below are some industry specific resources to help you search for opportunities in Environmental Science. Don't forget the important process of researching employers and networking with professionals in companies/organizations that you are interested in.

Research Resources

Graduate School

In addition to our general Graduate/Professional School resources, utilize the following resources for researching advanced degrees in Environmental Science.

  • Students in Environmental Science may pursue graduate programs in Forestry, Ecology, Environmental Conservation, Environmental Economics, Wildlife Conservation, Soil and Water Resource Management, Range Management, Environmental Science and Natural Resources

Professional Associations

Involvement in professional associations can expand your network, keep you up to date on current trends in the field, and give you access to additional job and internship opportunities. This is a sampling of professional associations that you could get involved in.

Additional Resources

Career Development Center

The Career Development Center is here to help you navigate your future path.

Contact Career Development Center