Industrial Ecologists

High School

Take a college preparatory curriculum while in high school. Classes that will be of particular benefit include environmental science, earth science, biology, chemistry, economics, history, math, and English. Be sure to also take computer science courses.

Postsecondary Training

A bachelor of science degree is the minimum degree required for industrial ecology jobs, which include testing and inspection. A master's degree is necessary for jobs in applied research or management. A Ph.D. is usually required to advance in the field, including into administrative positions or to work as a professor at four-year college or university.

Typical undergraduate majors include those in the basic sciences: biology, botany, zoology, chemistry, physics, or geology. At the master's degree level, many aspiring industrial ecologists major in natural resource management, ecology, botany, conservation biology, or forestry studies.

Certification

Some colleges and universities offer certificates in industrial ecology. For example, the University of Michigan offers a graduate certificate in industrial ecology. Students must take Industrial Ecology (an introductory course); one course in each of the following three categories: system analysis and sustainability, energy systems, and environmental policy and economic analysis; and participate in Sustainability Without Borders projects, a sustainability internship, or another experiential learning opportunity. Contact schools in your area to learn more about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Industrial ecologists continue to learn throughout their careers by taking workshops and attending industry-related conferences and events. Professional associations such as the International Society for Industrial Ecology (https://is4ie.org/resources) and the Ecological Society of America (https://www.esa.org) offer educational programs and other resources for ecology professionals and students.