Some conservation biologists spend a large part of their time conducting field research.

Take every opportunity to get hands-on experience doing fieldwork. Get a summer or part-time job with a park or nature center, or attend a summer field camp. Some programs may require an internship.

Computer skills are essential. Some positions require a great deal of data analysis and mathematical modeling.

You will also need strong oral and written communication skills. You often need to write technical reports and give presentations in many positions. Take a course in public speaking, if available.

Because environmental challenges require working with people from disciplines beyond the natural sciences, it helps to take some courses in social sciences, economics, and geography.