Field Naturalist Program

Since 1983, the Field Naturalist Program has drawn ecologists, biologists, policy-makers, planners, educators, and others who have the moxie to break new environmental ground.
A woman points out wildlife sign on the ground to two students writing notes

40+ Years of Professional Conservation Training

Our hallmarks are cross-disciplinary field science, problem-solving, and effective communication. Rather than a thesis, students complete a master's project for a sponsoring environmental organization that aligns with their career goals—they graduate with on-the-ground conservation experience.

Delve into the details of our degree program Meet our students and faculty Learn more about our sponsored master's projects
a woman in a forest with a clipboard and backpack looking up at the canopy

200+ Environmental Careers Launched

Our graduates are sought-after leaders in stewardship, conservation, policy, and place-based education. Whether they work in boardrooms, backyards, or bogs, Field Naturalists stand out as holistic problem-solvers. Well over 90% go on to careers in the environmental field, half in leadership roles.

Discover the impact of our alumni Are you a graduate? Join our alumni association Launch more careers by donating to our scholarship fund

Our gift campaign

In light of shifts in university funding, we've launched an ambitious campaign to provide the financial support our students need to complete their degrees and put their talents to work for conservation.

Field Notes magazine

Read the 2024 issue of our annual student-run magazine, and check out 20 years of back issues.

Field Naturalist opinions

Writer and botanist Robert Langellier '25 has continued to publish while a student in the program, in Grist, the Atlantic, and the New York Times.

Interested in becoming a Field Naturalist?

Consider attending our virtual Prospective Students Day on Friday, Nov 21.

Register for the session here

Contact the program