Forestry and Conservation Science Teachers, Postsecondary

These postsecondary educators teach students about managing forests, wildlife, and natural resources. Their daily work involves preparing lectures, instructing students, and using diverse learning strategies to explain complex environmental concepts. They must stay current by gathering information, analyzing data, and updating their own knowledge of forestry and biology. Many of these teachers balance classroom instruction with creative research projects, which requires them to interpret data, solve complex problems, and make decisions.

To succeed in this role, individuals need strong skills in reading comprehension, writing, active listening, and public speaking. They rely on a deep understanding of education, training, geography, biology, and mathematics. Because their strongest interest area is social, they thrive on helping others learn and grow. Important work styles for this profession include intellectual curiosity, dependability, integrity, cooperation, and attention to detail when evaluating student work or conducting scientific research.

Entering this career typically requires extensive preparation, with a doctoral or professional degree being the standard educational path. Most professionals in this field hold a graduate degree, such as a master's degree or a PhD.

Students preparing for this career often major in forestry, natural resources conservation and research, or environmental and natural resources management and policy. Other relevant college majors include ecology, evolution, systematics, and population biology, plant sciences, wildlife and wildlands science and management, agricultural production operations, or teacher education and professional development in specific subject areas. For professional development, some educators may pursue the LIUNA Instructor Certification from LIUNA Training and Education.

In 2025, the median annual pay for these postsecondary teachers was $101,420. Earnings can vary significantly based on experience, institution, and region; the lowest 10% of earners make less than $50,100, while the highest 10% earn more than $148,920.

There are 1,520 people employed in this field. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.8%, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth and normal turnover are expected to result in approximately 100 job openings each year.