Career Pathways

The mission of the Department of Environmental Science and Ecology is to  transform students into scientifically literate citizens and professionals by engaging them in high impact learning activities focused on environmental and ecological principles, techniques, and issues. By doing so, we will prepare our students for careers in the growing fields of natural resource management, the green economy, and environmental stewardship.

Is Your Education on Track?

Recommendations for Environmental Science (ENV) Majors

YEAR 1: EXPLORATION

Students are exploring who they are, what they are interested in, if they are in the right major, what potential career paths exist.

  • IDENTIFY your interests
  • ENSURE that your are in the right major
  • EXPLORE career paths
  • COMPLETE APS course
  • MEET with your major advisor to discuss career pathways and options
  • ATTEND ES&E scientific seminars
  • ATTEND ES&E professional development seminars
  • ATTEND ES&E Scholars Day presentations
  • EXPLORE options for gaining professional experience

YEAR 2: DIRECTION

Students begin developing a professional demeanor, learning career options, and participating in activities relevant to the profession.

  • BEGIN participating in professional activities
  • LEARN more about career options in major
  • BEGIN gaining experience outside of the classroom
  • CONSIDER an independent research project (if qualified)
  • APPLY for SURP (if qualified)
  • APPLY for summer positions with Student Conservation Association
  • CONTINUE with relevant items under Year 1
  • ATTEND Research and Internship Day
  • ATTEND the fall Career Services’ Careers for the Common Good (non-profit and volunteer positions) and the spring Jobs and Internship Fair
  • DEVELOP a resume and have it reviewed
  • CONSIDER Study Abroad programs and other external for-credit opportunities

YEAR 3: CREDENTIALS

Students complete opportunities to distinguish themselves from others through research, internships, volunteer work, study abroad, etc.

  • CONTINUE building your professional profile
  • GAIN more experience outside of the classroom
  • CONSIDER an independent research project (if qualified)
  • APPLY for SURP (if qualified)
  • APPLY for summer positions with Student Conservation Association
  • APPLY for employment on a summer research project through the department
  • CONTINUE with relevant items under Years 1 and 2
  • PRESENT your research at Scholars Day, SUNY Undergraduate Research Conference, etc.
  • CONSIDER Study Abroad programs and other external for-credit opportunities
  • TAKE any open state civil service exam
  • BEGIN contacting potential graduate school advisors

YEAR 4: TARGETING

Students polish and refine their job materials and prepare for entry into the job market/grad school.

  • REVIEW job materials and seek help from your advisor
  • PRACTICE professional networking and interviewing
  • CONTINUE building your professional profile
  • BEGIN applying for postgraduation positions
  • PRESENT at the fall Research and Internship Day
  • COMPLETE ENV 492 Global Environmental Issues
  • REFINE communication and critical thinking skills
  • GAIN more experience outside of the classroom
  • CONTINUE with relevant items in Years 1, 2, and 3
  • APPLY to graduate schools during the fall semester
  • SEND resume to potential employers during and after Winter Break
  • PRESENT your research at Scholars Day, SUNY Undergraduate Research Conference, etc.
  • TAKE any open state civil service exam

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