Student Perceptions of Environmental and Conservation (EC) Careers: Exploring Perspectives of Diverse University Students.

We used a modified version of the social cognitive career theory to examine demographic characteristics and personal and contextual career influences relating to career behaviors. A survey of 478 undergraduates revealed neutral to positive perceptions of EC careers across demographic characteristics with some variation in perceptions based on academic level. Minorities were more likely to anticipate discrimination in their future careers and to report financial issues as career barriers. In general, students in EC fields were less likely to anticipate discrimination than those on other career paths. Results also highlighted minority underrepresentation in outdoor recreation activities, a factor associated with EC careers. Juniors and seniors reported higher EC related self-efficacy, but less positive outcome expectations than freshmen and sophomores. Awareness and understanding of factors that influence career behavior can help agencies and organizations better address equity and representation concerns.