Career roadmap
How to Become a Forestry and Conservation Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a forestry and conservation professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a forestry and conservation professor: (1) earn a natural resources bachelor’s, (2) gain field experience, (3) complete a Ph.D., (4) build partnerships, (5) get hired. Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a forestry and conservation professor
Earn a natural resources bachelor’s
Forestry or ecology.
Gain field experience
Seasonal jobs.
Complete a Ph.D.
Research.
Build partnerships
Agencies and NGOs.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in forestry, ecology or natural resources is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in forestry or ecology: Doctoral degree.
- Certified Forester (SAF): Professional credential.
- Certified Wildlife Biologist: TWS credential.
- Wilderness first aid: Field safety.
Skills to build now
Start with forest ecology, field methods, and gis, and practice leadership in the field and mentoring. Learning the forestry and conservation professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Graduate Researcher: Train.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Dean: Lead programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Forestry and Conservation Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a forestry and conservation professor?
Most people need about 5–7 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in forestry, ecology or natural resources is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a forestry and conservation professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a Ph.D., while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree and professional experience.
What certifications are available for forestry and conservation professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in forestry or ecology, Certified Forester (SAF), Certified Wildlife Biologist, and Wilderness first aid. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1043 (Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Forestry and conservation science teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.