Today we are faced with a crisis that could be a turning point for the planet. The devastating effects of global warming are touching every corner of the earth, over fishing is destroying our seas and depleting marine life, many to the point that the very existence of their species is being threatened. Other environmental harms are threatening fragile habitats, endangered species, and eliminating the fresh air, clean water, and available food that this planet needs to survive. At the same time, big oil and other large industries are pushing their agenda and spreading the global warming denial and drilling hysteria that we seem to see flooding the news. At such a time, it is not hard to see why so many organizations and schools are putting a greater emphasis on sustainability and environmental education to inform people about the realities of the environmental issues and their solutions. And at the same time many people are turning away from the corporate world and seeking employment with companies and organizations that let them make a difference. But how exactly does one become an educator in the sustainability and environmental realm. Here are some great tips and resources to help you plan your new career.
The Traditional Route for Those Who are College Bound:
If you are exploring college options that offer environmental studies for their degree programs you have a lot of choices available to you in both traditional settings and online program options. Universities and colleges all over the country are offering degrees in Environmental Studies and Environmental Sciences including Brown University, Anna Maria College, North Carolina Central University, Chatham University, and American Public University just to name a few. Upon graduation most schools have job placement services to help you find employment as an environmental educator in the public or private sector.
You could also choose the traditional teaching route if you wish to be involved as an environmental educator in public schools. You could pursue your major in education to get your teaching certificate while you minor or even double major in environmental studies to give you the foundation that you need for the field.
Non-Traditional Route for Those Switching Careers:
Of course you do not necessarily have to have a degree in Environmental Studies in order to become an educator in the field. Many other fields give you a solid foundation for sustainability and environmental education. My husband for example, was an engineer with a masters degree but chose to leave the field to work in the non-profit sector because he wanted to make a difference. He now works as a school program coordinator and gets to share his love for nature with kids of all ages while he teaches them about the important concepts of conservation and our need to protect the environment. So, as you can see, there are opportunities to educate people about the environment and ways in which we can create sustainable communities for people of many backgrounds including any of the sciences, public planning, management, marketing, or any number of other fields.
How to Find Jobs in the Field of Sustainability/Environmental Education:
Some great places to look for opportunities as an educator not only include public and private schools but also local organizations such as parks, zoos, aquariums, nature reserves, and botanical gardens. Many conservation organizations and green businesses are also offering job opportunities for educators. There are a number of great green job portals online that can help you in the job search as well and you can find links to these in the resource section below.
If you are a good communicator and have a passion for the environment then put that passion into your cover letters and resume as you send them out to prospective employers and with a little patience your job search will eventually yield some great results, helping you to start a new career that paves a way for a brighter future for the next generation.
Resources and Useful Links:
University Programs:
- Brown University
- Anna Maria College
- Chatham University
- North Carolina Central University
- American Public University
- Peterson’s Guide to Colleges and Universities with Environmental Programs
Green Job Sites:
Other Resources:
- NAAEE Info on Green Education and Jobs
- eGreen Education: Resources for education and careers
