Careers in Ecology

Our one-of-a-kind program leads to one-of-a-kind careers. Many options await.

Become a Scientific Leader

The application of scientific knowledge to enact global change not only differentiates our program- it is what differentiates our graduates and opens their pathways to abundant career choices. Course variety plus research experiences prepare our students to be scientific leaders—both as a student and a professional in research, academia, industry, government or nonprofit sectors.

Here are several positions our graduates pursue:

Conservation researchers and advocates	Environmental consultants
Restoration ecologists	Fisheries and wildlife biologists
Environmental toxicologists	Aquaculture managers
Natural resource managers	Science educators & communicators

In our field, it’s all about choice. Where will you land?

Graduate Study

Is your next step pursuing graduate study? The only applied ecology program in the U.S., we offer multiple research areas and encourage student leadership and growth. Learn more about our unique ecological depth and breadth.

Graduate Programs in Applied Ecology

NC State Graduate School

CALS Career Services

Need a jumpstart in your career search? Weu2019ll help you develop a plan.

NC State Career Center

Itu2019s our job to help you stand out. Check out how to secure a rewarding career.

CALS Career Services Events

Want to shine at career fairs? Need a primer in professional dress? Our events can help.

Ecological Society of America

Browse types of jobs, employers, job outlook, and ways to gain experience for a career in ecology.

American Fisheries Society

Find resources for preparing for jobs in the fisheries and aquatic sciences field.

Entomology Society of America

Jumpstart your career search through ESA’s Career Center.

Society for Conservation Biology

The SCB assists students with educational resources and career tips.

Society for Freshwater Science

Society for Risk Analysis

Integrative Graduate Education and Research Traineeship

IGERT has been the National Science Foundation’s flagship interdisciplinary training program, educating U.S. Ph.D. scientists and engineers by building on the foundations of their disciplinary knowledge with interdisciplinary training.

Learn more

Research Technician checks on sturgeon at a research center. — Research technician Adrienne Ratti checks on sturgeon at the Mountain Horticultural Research and Extension Center in Henderson County.