As an environmental science graduate, you can start in a number of work areas directly related to your qualification. Waste and countryside management, water quality, recycling, energy and nature conservation, environmental management and education have the common goals of environmental protection, maintenance, and improvement. Popular organisations offering graduate opportunities range from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), along with local authorities, charitable trusts and environmental organisations groups.

The focus for this type of work is improving the quality of the natural environment so the majority of roles involve some form of analysis and the following of legislation guidelines. As a water quality scientist you would assess water standards including drinking water, while nature conservation management involves the setting of targets to preserve or enhance biodiversity. The latter might include raising awareness of various campaigns to communities via promotional efforts and educational events or collaborating with organisations to reduce their on the environment.

Given the specialised strengths and interests you need for these jobs it’s worth taking time to research as many roles as possible to discover their individual merits and which one is right for you. Remember to check whether the role requires any additional qualifications, or if they form part of the training.

As with most science degrees, you will have gained a number of useful transferrable skills that are desirable to employers of all industries. If you are looking to enter a non-scientific sector, add to these skills with work experience and extra-curricular activities to give your CV an edge and show your versatility.