Career pathways

Our students have a high placement rate in a range of occupations, because they graduate with a broad disciplinary knowledge and possess key skills in analytical processing, critical thinking and professional communication.

Our program is designed to make our students “work-ready” or competitive for U.S. and international graduate programs.

Please see career info and assistance for more in-depth information.

What types of organizations employ graduates from SAFS?

Government Agencies, such as State, Tribal and Federal agencies employ our graduates in scientific research and policy development

Activities within agencies are designed to fulfil organizational mandates, which range from management of natural resources such as fisheries, to aquaculture and restoration, to conservation planning and law.

Agencies such as the Departments of Fish and Wildlife and Departments of Natural Resources are charged with managing and conserving the State’s natural heritage. These agencies are found in all States.

Tribal agencies provide support to treaty tribes to aid in the management of natural resources. Examples include the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Federal Agencies vary in thier mandates and jurisdictions. Examples include the NOAA Fisheries Service, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the US Geological Service and the Army Corps of Engineers.

Some of our students find themselves working in International governmental agencies.

Environmental Non-governmental agencies (NGOs) employ biologists as advisors, advocates and researchers to help their organizations meet their missions

NGOs exist for a variety of reasons, including raising the awareness of environmental and social issues, and furthering the goals of their members or funders. They operate at the international, national, regional and local levels.

Biologists in NGOs might find themselves conducting research into restoration and monitoring, developing policies, or collaborating with stakeholders to meet larger goals.

Business, industry and consultancy companies employ graduates as researchers and advisors

Biologists in the aquacuture and fishing industries are involved in sustainable management. In aquaculture, for example, biologists research ways to improve rearing practices or to explore the culture of new species while reducing their impact on the environment.

Skills learned during our degree helps students find positions in biotechnology. Aquatic organisms are often key subjects in research and development, and are used as indicators of ecosystem health.

Some industries employ aquatic biologists to develop technologies relevant to research and monitoring. For example, graduates might be involved in development of radio tracking devices, ocean observatory stations, acoustic monitoring, or specialized sampling devices.

Biologists also play a key role in studying the impact of human activities on the environment, and help businesses comply with environmental regulations. They might advise companies on ways to reduce their environmental footprint. 

Some students also find work in environmental consulting firms and in environmental education. 

Many of our students continue to graduate school, or to professional degrees

Our degree is designed to develop independence, rigor, flexibility, and communication skills – the key ingredients required for success in graduate and professional degrees.

Many students stay in the aquatic sciences, others might study related fields in biology. Some combine their undergraduate training with education, policy, law and engineering degrees, allowing them to follow interesting multidisciplinary careers.

Example sites adverising employment opportunities in the environment.