You’ll likely need a degree or postgraduate qualification for this job. You can work towards this after school by going to university, college or by getting an apprenticeship.

Explore the information you need for each route to this career.

University

For many roles, you'll need a degree or postgraduate qualification.

Subjects related to sustainability and the environment are very useful, such as:

• sustainable management 

• sustainable development

• sustainable energy management 

• construction management with sustainability 

• supply chain and sustainability management 

• environmental sustainability 

Other university subjects which could be helpful for this career include: 

• agricultural science 

• biology 

• chemistry 

• physics 

• technology 

• geography 

• environmental science 

What you need to enter a degree course depends on the subject and university. For a sustainability degree, you'll likely need:

• at least 3 Highers at B or better, including science subjects

• National 5 qualifications in at least 1 science subject

Some universities will have higher entry requirements – these are what you'll need as a minimum. A relevant HNC or HND will allow you to apply for some courses.

For entry to a postgraduate course, you'll need an honours degree in a relevant subject.

College 

Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you find work or progress to more advanced study. Subjects at college could include: 

• environmental management 

• environmental management and sustainability 

• sustainable resource management 

What you'll need for a college course depends on the qualification level, subject and college. As a guide, for an HND in Environmental Management, you'll likely need two Highers at C or better, including a relevant subject such as a science. 

Apprenticeships 

You could start learning the skills you'll need in this career through a Foundation Apprenticeship (FA). While you're in S5 or S6, you'll gain work experience while you study. 

You might want to consider an FA in: 

• Engineering 

Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. 

You might want to consider an MA in areas such as: 

• Engineering Construction 

• Rural Land Use and Management

Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you break into the environmental sector. Search for opportunities on Volunteer.scot. 

Find more volunteering through: 

• The Conservation Volunteers 

• National Trust 

• NatureScot 

• Scotland’s Environment 

• The Wildlife Trust 

You can join the Society for the Environment or another environmental membership body. This can help develop professional contacts and find training opportunities. 

A membership of chartered institutions and professional societies can help you access career guidance and networking opportunities. Relevant bodies include:  

• Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) 

• International Society of Sustainability Professionals (ISSP)