How to become a countryside officer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree before applying for work as a countryside officer.
Relevant courses include:
- countryside or environmental management
- ecology and geography
- environmental studies
- plant biology
- conservation
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You may be able to start as a trainee countryside officer after completing a course at an agricultural college, such as:
- Level 3 Diploma in Countryside Management
- T Level in Agriculture, Land Management and Production
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You could begin your career by doing a Countryside Ranger Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This can take a minimum of 2 years and 2 months to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You may be able to join an organisation as a countryside ranger or assistant officer and work your way up through on-the-job training and promotion.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a good way to get practical experience, meet new people and develop your network of contacts.
You can find opportunities with:
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Countryside Management Association for professional development training.
Further information
You can get more details about working in the countryside from Lantra and Grow Careers.