How to Become an Environmental Planner

Environmental planning is a young field that combines concerns for the environment and the field of urban planning. Not all planners agree on what "environment" means, as well as what should be included in the realm of environmental benefits sustained by a community. Someone who wants to become an environmental planner is concerned with environment-friendly building, sustainable development and preserving environmentally vulnerable areas.

Instructions

1. Declare a major in environmental studies or a related field. An environmental planner usually needs a Bachelor of Resource and Environmental Planning degree or a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree.

2. Learn all that you can about the economic, political, scientific and ethical issues concerning the environment. Keeping up-to-date on current events significantly helps.

3. Demonstrate that you can speak, write and use a computer effectively. All of these skills will help you cultivate your communication competence.

4. Develop skills in cartography. Find out what college courses offer training in this area.

5. Familiarize yourself with geographic computer software and simulation programs. The right college courses will expose you to these programs.

6. Obtain an internship or practical experience that allows you to work with environmental and land-use concerns. For more information, contact a local or county government agency or academic advisor.

7. Consider obtaining a master's degree in urban planning.

8. Get networked with other environmental planners and professionals by joining organizations like the National Association of Environmental Professionals (see Resources below). Developing a professional network is one of the most effective ways to become a successful environmental planner.

Tips & Warnings

• Environmental planners can obtain employment with governmental entities, landscaping firms, non-profit conservation organizations and private companies. Some environmental planners are self-employed private contractors or consultants.

• When searching job listings for environmental planners be aware of the commonly used terms: "land use planner" and "environmental planner."

• Declaring a major in environmental planning does not mean studying within just one discipline. You can expect to acquire an interdisciplinary focus while completing the educational requirements.

• Environmental issues can be exciting and controversial. Successful environmental planners are able to see multiple perspectives on this topic, and do not let personal bias affect important planning-related decisions.

• EnviroEducation.com provides extensive information on educational preparation and the academic standards required associated with becoming an environmental planner (see Resources below).

Resources

• National Association of Environmental Professionals
• Educational requirements from EnviroEducation.com