There are tons of college majors that can help as you pursue a conservationist career. Think for a minute about the skills you will need in the field. A solid base in natural sciences is necessary, as is a basic understanding of geography in general and GIS mapping in particular. Depending on your exact interests, you may want to focus on a specific area like biology or chemistry. 

Try to remember that, despite what many people think, many students often do not pick their college major until well after enrolling in school. Those who do select a major ahead of time often end up changing it as their interests and priorities shift throughout their education. If you find one path isn't quite right, you always have the option to switch things up.

So, whether you are an incoming freshman or wrapping up your sophomore year and looking toward the future, here are six possible college majors that can help you land a career as a conservationist. 

1. Environmental Science

This has long been a common path for budding conservationists. An environmental science degree provides the solid base of natural sciences that you will need regardless of your eventual specialty. Environmental science degrees are usually purposefully broad in scope, so you may find yourself taking on additional student loans to fund advanced studies later on. 

2. Geology

Geology majors study the Earth and its physical characteristics. If you are most interested in the planet's structure and changes in it over time, this could be an excellent entry point into a conservation career. After all, as climate change continues to affect the Earth, there will be an increasing need for experts to analyze measurements and make assessments.

Many geology degrees require fieldwork where students can demonstrate their understanding. In some cases, you may be able to use in-depth research to make up this component of your studies. 

3. Forestry

Forests play an important role in sustaining the planet's ecosystems. For example, they filter water, purify the air, and store large quantities of carbon. Forests also provide shelter to countless species of organisms from fungi to insects and reptiles and primates.  Yet, humanity has long overlooked their importance over the need for more cleared land. A degree in forestry is the first step in remedying that problem.

Forestry degrees lean heavily on biology and math to understand what makes forests healthy and what endangers them. Potential careers range from public service options in the forestry service to academic research. 

4. Engineering

Engineering may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of conservation, but it takes an understanding of complex mechanical design principles to create solutions to climate problems. Consider solar panels, wind turbines, and other systems that work to improve climate conditions. These all required engineers to design and refine them. 

5. Ecology

Ecology combines hard physical sciences with the more nuanced social sciences. AS you study how different organisms interact with and affect their environment, you will also hopefully learn strategies to minimize the negative effects of those interactions. This is also a good path for those who are interested in how populations move throughout the world. 

6. Conservation Studies

Another interdisciplinary option for future conservationists is to lock in a degree in conservation studies. You will touch on subjects covered in most of the other programs listed here without dialing down a specific specialty subject. This is an excellent idea if you know you want a green career but are unsure of an exact path. 

Conclusion

There are numerous career paths you can take in the field of conservation, and nearly a many degrees to get you there. Some students choose from specialties like ecology, forestry or engineering, while others keep things broad with a degree in environmental or conservation studies.