EE Careers: The AUNE Competitive Edge

A master's degree in Environmental Education from AUNE opens doors not only to an interesting variety of job settings, but also to higher level positions and rates of pay. Established in 1972, the Environmental Studies department at AUNE is the oldest environmental studies graduate program in the country while the environmental educators program, launched in 1989, remains the only such program composed entirely of graduate level students.

The demand for graduate level environmental education programs began increasing nationally in the 1990s and reached an all time high at AUNE in 2009 when admission inquiries rose 33% from 2005.

"I chose AUNE because I was looking to learn ways to share science knowledge that I was passionate about. I had an undergraduate degree in Marine Biology, but knew I wanted to do more than end up in a lab. Antioch's combination of a strong, well-known environmental education program and an emphasis on field courses and practicum experiences made me aware that I could get real experience before graduating while still being able to follow my interests. I got a ton out of each of my classes and practica which allowed me to pursue a depth of knowledge that I don't think I could have gotten anywhere else." —Carla Companion ('09), COSEE-OS, Research Associate, Darling Marine Center in Maine

But just what is it about this program that earns it such praise from its alumni and environmental experts? It boils down to four points that make up the AUNE Competitive Edge:

Oldest graduate level Environmental Studies department with the most recognized environmental education program in the country
Commitment to high standards
Multiple professional internship experiences
Extensive networking and mentoring opportunities

In a recent survey of program alumni, one hundred percent of respondents reported that they either "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that the EE program was effective in preparing them for work in the environmental field. Among the competitive advantages that make the program stand apart from other such programs is the integration of professional internship experiences that garner AUNE students more esteemed job opportunities after graduation.

"Through my practicum working on an organic farm to student-teaching during my last semester, Antioch offered a combination of academic and real-world experience that made me marketable in the workforce. And even though I graduated over a year ago, I still keep in touch with teachers and friends who offer continuous support as I develop my career path, and I know they will be there for years to come." —Stacey Rashti ('08), Environmental Educator for the City of Norfolk, Virginia with the Keep Norfolk Beautiful Program

"AUNE turned my world upside down. I was driven by the content, but it was the philosophy, the personal and academic confidence, and the profound inspiration I received from colleagues and faculty that made me the teacher I am today." —Jennifer Watt, EE '00 (Click here to read more about Jennifer.)

The AUNE Edge at Work

Marilyn Wyzga '88

Marilyn is a professional artist, teaching naturalist, and author who promotes environmental learning through participation in schoolyard habitat projects across the country. She is the creator of the NH Fish and Game department's Project HOME: Homes for Wildlife program, an award-winning schoolyard habitat program that engages communities in wildlife habitat practices. More than 100 schools in New Hampshire have been involved with these projects since the mid-1990s and the program model is now being implemented by Project WILD coordinators in more than ten states.

As a wildlife educator, Marilyn writes about and conducts public programs throughout the region on enhancing landscapes for wildlife and most recently co-authored the book, Integrated Landscaping: Following Nature's Lead. She also works to apply her design skills to interpretive and educational exhibits and children's theater.

Marilyn's leadership has influenced the work of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, the board of directors of Wild Ones (a nonprofit organization promoting biodiversity and environmentally sound practices using native species), and the New England Environmental Education Alliance (NEEEA). In fact, NEEEA honored Marilyn in 2007 by naming her New England's Non-Formal Environmental Educator of the Year.

Other accomplishments include helping to launch the New Hampshire Children in Nature Coalition, the development of a statewide summer teacher institute, and serving as the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department's exhibit designer.

Marilyn Wyzga embodies the passion, dedication and interdisciplinary, collaborative approaches demanded to creatively solve environmental challenges we face today. Her efforts are transforming landscapes and mindscapes, as she facilitates habitat restoration and addresses issues of ecological literacy in communities throughout New England and beyond.

Last Updated: 2/29/12