Research and explore a marine conservation issue and how communities come together to sustainably resolve it.
Submit your application ASAP.
Expect 10 HRS per week, all meetings and events are recorded.
This remote Externship starts Sep 15th, 2025.
Students who successfully complete their externships will receive their educational stipends at the end of the program. This stipend is provided to offset internet and technology costs required for program completion.
This Externship is open to young people ages 18-25.
This Externship is open to applicants all around the world.
The National Geographic Society + The Nature Conservancy Marine Conservation Externship is an 8-week, part-time, fully remote experience where you’ll investigate the health of our oceans and translate global marine challenges into local action.
Working alongside renowned scientists and passionate peers, you’ll research, analyze, and communicate strategies that safeguard marine ecosystems, and the communities that depend on them. From examining overfishing and coral-reef decline to engaging local leaders on coastal resilience, you’ll play a pivotal role in identifying how every community can advance ocean stewardship, all while honing the research and storytelling skills that will fuel a purpose-driven career in conservation.
Marine Conservation Exploration
Examine pressing issues such as marine protected areas, ocean acidification, and habitat loss, along with emerging solutions.
Investigative Research
Apply primary and secondary methods to evaluate conservation initiatives and uncover local marine challenges.
Community Engagement & Public Speaking
Interview leaders, conservationists, and residents to highlight the ties between your community and the ocean.
Problem-Solving & Solution Design
Identify gaps in local efforts and craft actionable strategies to strengthen marine protection.
Storytelling for Impact
Develop written, visual, and verbal narratives that inspire audiences to support marine conservation.
Work on real-world problems with two of the most renowned global conservation organizations.
Learn directly from industry leaders and collaborate with peers from across the country.
Build knowledge in marine conservation, research methods, and science communication strategies that future employers and programs value.
Create and present a full analysis and recommendation deck showcasing your strategic thinking.
Gain skills and experiences that stand out in roles across conservation, sustainability, policy, education, and environmental communication.
The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education, and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, the Society has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings, and engaging audiences worldwide through signature experiences, stories, and content.
The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental nonprofit working to create a world where people and nature can thrive. The Conservancy protects the lands and waters on which all life depends by boldly addressing the biodiversity and climate crises of the next decade. By maximizing our ability to affect change between now and 2030, The Nature Conservancy believes we can shape a brighter future for people and our planet.
Join our 8-week Externship with The National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy, and turn ocean science into real-world solutions.
