Environmental consultant : Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include biological sciences, environmental and earth sciences, chemical and physical sciences, urban and land studies, engineering, agricultural and horticultural sciences, and social/economic/business studies. In particular, the following degree subjects may increase your chances for employment in this sector:

• chemistry;
• ecology/wildlife management;
• engineering geology;
• environmental engineering;
• environmental management;
• geography;
• geology;
• geophysics;
• hydrogeology.

A good honours degree is the minimum entry qualification. If you are studying for a relevant degree, choosing a dissertation title which is relevant to your field of interest is important. Ideally, a work-based placement through an employer will build the best contacts and experience.

Entry is not possible with an HND only.

These days, in addition to a first degree, it is common for applicants to have a postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject or some work experience in that field. Employers will often expect this now and sometimes offer summer placements and work-based placements linked to Masters programmes.

Local councils and other government agencies, e.g. the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) , may also provide project placements at times.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• business skills and sound business awareness, as consultants operate in a very commercial environment;
• IT skills, such as word processing and use of spreadsheets and presentation packages;
• good communication and presentation skills;
• good project management skills as time and resources are allocated to projects and need to be monitored and adhered to.

A driving licence is often required.

Student membership of a chartered institution or society will demonstrate your commitment to your career and desire to engage with professionals in your sector. It will also give you the opportunity to network and market yourself to potential employers.

Although many posts ask for experience there is a general trend for employers not to insist on this. A number of consultancies, recognising the need to be more proactive and take the time to invest in junior staff, have established graduate training schemes. In order to identify potential employers, candidates should research companies in their area of interest (see ENDS Environmental Consultancy Directory ) and look for graduate opportunities on their websites. Employers in this sector are also open to speculative applications, so contacting a consultancy with a CV is worthwhile.

It is illegal for employers to discriminate against candidates on the grounds of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.