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Career and School Info for Environmental Scientists

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  School and Career Overview

Degrees and Schools

An environmental studies bachelor's degree program typically includes several areas of environmental concentration. Students learn the nature of environmental issues in the scientific and social sciences. Students analyze and solve problems using basic and applied research. Many programs combine classroom learning, research and public service in a community. Some programs offer leadership programs that collaborate with environmental and service projects with government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Compared to an environmental studies program, an environmental science program has a stronger emphasis on sciences, particularly focusing on biology, physics, chemistry or earth sciences.

A graduate degree in environmental studies prepares students for careers in environmental policy, education, stewardship and research. Graduate programs are available which focus on a particular topic of the environment.

Classes

Students study subjects such as:

  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Earth sciences
  • Physics
  • Statistics
  • Mathematics
  • Ecology
  • Environmental policy

Online Classes and Programs

Due to the research-based applications of environmental studies, many student choose to obtain their degree on-campus and not online.

Employment Requirements

Jobs in environmental science require at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a bachelors degree in environmental studies. Many jobs require applicants to have a master's degree.

Jobs are available in environmental planning, green investment planning, environmental education, corporate management and wildlife biology in regional and national organizations and government agencies. Other jobs include hydrologists, ecological modeler, environmental ecologist, conservation scientist and environmental chemist. Jobs are also provided by science and engineering companies and oil and gas companies.

How to Evaluate Schools and Programs

While evaluating schools, prospective students should consider getting answers to the questions shown below:

  • School's Reputation - Does the school have a good reputation in environmental studies and/or environmental science?
  • Training - Does the program include externships?
  • Curriculum - Can students specialize in their area of interest?
  • Job Placement - Does the school provide job placement services? How does the school's job placement rate for environmental jobs compare to other schools?
  • Financial Aid - What types of financial aid are available? Has the school been approved to provide federal financial aid?
  • Accreditation - Has the school been provided accreditation by an agency which has been approved by the the United States Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education?

Environmental Scientists Job Description

Environmental science is challenging, complex and constantly changing. Environmental scientists study environmental problems and attempt to offer solutions. The also try and prevent air, soil and water pollution. An environmental scientist has the challenging task of maintaining a balance between what is best for the natural environment and the financial needs of workers and industries.

Environmental scientists typically specialize in an environmental subject such as land conservation; groundwater contamination, hazardous or toxic waste removal and disposal; and wildlife preservation. They also help planners construct buildings and develop transportation and utilities corridors that protect the environment.

Shown below are some of their responsibilities:

  • Perform research to find pollution or hazards and offer a plan to eliminate them
  • Perform environmental impact studies
  • Work with political leaders and civic groups to solve environmental problems in a community
  • Study how the environment interacts biologically, physically and chemically
  • Determine data collection methods to be used in research projects and surveys
  • Design monitoring systems
  • Analyze data and interpret correlations between human activities and environmental effects

Resources