Check out the career links page too!

the world is becoming more and more environmentally conscious, especially here in the U.S.. Employment opportunities continue to grow as government and industry focus increased funds toward environmentally conscious policy. Consulting, map production, analysis, and regulation specialists are simply the tip of the iceberg. You'll benefit from both internships and electives in ecology, biology, conservation, forestry, or a number of other environment oriented directions.

BYU Gen Ed. Requirements
General & Track course Requirements

One of the best ways to prepare academically for a good job is to take a variety of courses outside Geography but that still deal with the environment and related areas. Such courses may include:

Acc 241 - Business Law in Environment
Econ 240 - Intro Natrl. Rsc. Envnmt Econ
Econ 440 - Economics &Natural Resources
Comms 150 - Public Speaking

For those who want to work internationaly:
ManEc. 358 - International Economics
OrgB 551 - 3rd World Development

Botny/Zool 350 - Ecology
Botny/Zool 407 - Consv. Biol. & Ecol.
Botny 405 - Ethics in Consv. Biol. & Ecol.
Botny 400 - Ecol. Consv. & Natl. Rsc.
Range 225 - Prcps Wildlife Rsc.
Range 505 - Law Enforcement
Range 470 - Nat. Rsc., Plng, & GIS
Range 469 - Forest Mngmt. and Ecology

It's also a good idea to get an understanding of government and politics, for example:

PlSc 330 - Theories of Public Policy
PlSc 331 - Public Policy Process
PlSc 535 - National Resources Policy

These will provide background and perspective on environmental regulation, laws, and other government-controlled parameters you will be working in.

A basic concept of universal building and zoning codes, construction management type stuff, would be beneficial to anyone planning on working in an area where development and environment must negotiate. Here are some you may consider:

CM 385 - Contracts and Laws
CM 417 - Building Codes and Inspection
CM 426 - Real Estate Principles

Remember, the more you know and the more you can apply it, the better off you will be on the job hunt!

You can also get good ideas by checking out job descriptions of positions you might be interested in. Also see the MAP of your track. Browse the Sugested Sequence of Courses and Discipline and Career Information.

Internhsips in environmental studies

Those with an emphasis in Environmental Studies manage, protect, and conserve resources. They also establish policies on the best ways to use limited natural resources.

Many of those in this track will move on to work for government agencies like:

National Geodetic Survey
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Québec Government Geomatics Plan
U.S. Census Bureau
U.S. Commerce Department
U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Forest Service
Bureau of Land Management

Every major development corporation must adhere to government environmental policy. Therefore, they also need geographers who can consult and advise on environmental issues. Check out the following links and browse the opportunities:

environmental consulting
environmental/development consulting
environmental preservation

Coming soon we will a password accessible list of alumni you can contact for career opportunities! Keep in touch!!!

Many organizations deal with preserving, regenerating, and studying the environment. As a geography major, you can offer consulting services or just work in the industry as an active participant.

Environmental Careers Organization. This is a site dedicated to helping you find oportunities in Environment-directed careers.
Land Trust Alliance. If you're interested in land trusts and preservation and want to work for one check out this site.

Last of all, check these sites out!

Environmental Careers World

Internship Suggestions

  • One of the best things you can do to prepare is find an internship with one of the above listed companies or agencies.
  • Scan their pages for internship announcements or email them and ask. This is how to create relationships that will get you permanent employment upon graduation.
  • Check out the master list of internships on the main geography page.
  • Contact Dr. Richard Jackson, the department internship coordinator. He has tons of info.