There are many possible careers in conservation that encompass a wide range of preservation and conservation activities, sometimes making the road to becoming a conservator complex. Historically, apprenticeship training was the primary route. However, since the establishment of degree-granting graduate programs in the 1960s and ‘70s, conservation education has become more formalized. Today, most professional conservators earn an advanced degree, with the majority of job postings requiring at least a master's degree from a conservation graduate program or equivalent. Below are main stages of becoming a conservator.