To work as a natural sciences manager, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have at least a bachelor's degree in science; and
• have more than five years experience as a scientist.

Education after high school

You must have at least a bachelor's degree in science for management positions in applied science. You need a master's or doctoral (PhD) degree in science to be a manager in research.

Many natural sciences managers have a master's degree. Science managers need administrative skills as well as technical skills. A master's in business administration (MBA) is good preparation for non-technical (applied science) management jobs. For technical management jobs, a master's degree or PhD in science plus an MBA is the best preparation.

You should major in the natural science you are most interested in. Computer and management courses are also helpful.

Work experience

You must prove yourself as a scientist before you can move into this occupation. Natural science managers work for several years as chemists, biologists, geologists, or scientists in other fields before becoming managers.

On-the-job training

You should consider participating in an internship while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.

Employers often provide training or pay for college course work. It is important that you update your technical skills and expand your administrative skills.