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Degrees and Schools
There are plenty of colleges and universities that offer degrees in environmental engineering. Degrees are also available in environmental technology management.
The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) provides accreditation to college and university programs in engineering and engineering technology.
Classes
Some of the subjects students study are shown below:
- Environmental studies
- Physical sciences
- Biology
- Mathematics
- Computer programming
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Public policy
- Urban planning
Online Classes and Programs
Online programs are available in environmental engineering and environmental technology management. A lot of the courses include laboratory and hands-on experience. Online students typically combine their theoretical training with apprenticeships and on-site seminars.
Employment Requirements
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in engineering. Some employers prefer to hire those with a graduate degree in environmental engineering or in environmental science and technology.
The primary employers are architectural and engineering companies. Other major employers are management, scientific and technical consulting services; federal state and local government agencies, and scientific research and development services.
Many environmental engineers work as consultants. Every state requires licensure for engineers who offer their services directly to the public. To obtain a license candidates typically need to have a degree from an ABET accredited engineering program, have four years of relevant work experience and pass a state examination.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
The answers to the following questions can help students select the appropriate school:
- Training - Does the program provide plenty of hands-on training? Does the program include a relevant externship? Do students have a variety of externship choices?
- School's Reputation - Is the school recognized for its environmental engineering program?
- Job Placement - Are students provided job placement services? Do people who hire environmental engineers recruit students at the school? Does the school provide job fairs?
- Curriculum - What type of electives are offered? Can students select an area of specialization?
- Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Is the school qualified to provide federal financial aid?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by an agency which has been approved by the the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?
Environmental Engineers Job Description
Basically, environmental engineers create solutions to environmental problems. They are concerned with local and worldwide environmental issues. They're involved in topics such as air and water pollution control, waste disposal, recycling and public health issues. Environmental engineers also perform research on the environmental impact of proposed construction projects.
Some environmental engineers are involved in the protection of wildlife. Many environmental engineers work as a consultant, assisting their clients to comply with regulations or clean up hazardous sites or prevent environmental damage.
Shown below are some of their responsibilities:
- Perform hazardous waste management studies
- Perform quality control checks
- Inspect industrial and municipal facilities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and evaluate operational effectiveness
- Design and oversee the development of equipment or systems processes for management, control or remediation of air, water or soil quality
- Develop, review and update environmental investigation and recommendation reports
- Monitor progress of environmental improvement programs
- Advice government agencies and companies regarding procedures to adhere to in cleaning up contaminated sites
- Obtain, update and maintain permits, plans and standard operating procedures
Resources
- American Academy of Environmental Engineers
- National Society of Professional Engineers
- JETS
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
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