What can you do with a major in Environmental Studies?
Today’s complex environmental challenges call for versatile professionals who can adapt to and thrive in a variety of settings. Many of our alumni find careers in education, advocacy, consulting or policy, but they succeed in a diverse range of career paths. Trained to think critically, conduct research, apply sustainability frameworks and communicate to diverse audiences, graduates are prepared for environmental careers in government, non-profits, business, education and consulting. They use their understanding of how political, cultural and socio-economic conditions impact our natural and urban environments to shape conversations and realize solutions for our collective futures.
Whether you have targeted career goals or are still considering which path is right for you, the Program on the Environment has resources to help you. We offer a strong career support system with job postings, opportunities to meet employers, resources and advising available throughout the year.
Sample Alumni Job Titles |
Sample Alumni Employers |
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Alumni Profiles
- Elizabeth Szorad, Waste Zero Specialist, Recology
Cleaning up WA through waste education and outreach - Emily Noyd, wilderness ranger, National Park Service
A backcountry ranger shares her passion for the wilderness - Carter Case, lead restoration technician, Garden Cycles
Restoring WA’s urban environment, one green space at a time - Anna Mines, co-founder of social enterprise PYMWYMI
Alumna Anna Mines co-founds responsible tourism business to support Southern Italian communities
Resources
The College of the Environment regularly updates an extensive job board covering a breadth of environmental professional opportunities. Bookmark or check this page often.
Additionally, the Program on the Environment offers
- a curated weekly email career list-serv which includes a monthly career advice segment for exploring career paths related to this major. To sign up, email the adviser, Ana Wieman, at wieman@uw.edu.
- a Career Cube with sample roles and professions related to Environmental Studies. The cube is located in the Program on the Environment Commons and is accessible anytime.
Other UW Resources
- UW Environmental Career Fair
- UW Career & Internship Center
- Carlson Leadership & Public Service Center
Outside Resources
Below are some resources for exploring opportunities with government agencies and other organizations. This list is not comprehensive, and we encourage students to seek out other resources as well.