Environmental Sciences Degrees

In today’s world the preservation of our environment and improvement of its conditions is becoming increasingly important. As a result, those with an environmental sciences degree are much needed.  Environmental sciences refer to the study of the physical and biological sciences in relation to the environment in order to find solutions to environmental problems. The study of environmental sciences includes fields such as ecology, biology, chemistry, and geosciences. Environmental scientists observe the effects humans and their actions have on nature. They find ways of conserving natural resources and improving natural habitats. Environmental sciences experts can be found working in areas related to law, policy making and research among others.

Environmental Sciences Degrees and Programs
Environmental sciences degrees can be found at all levels of education. You can choose from certificate and Associate programs in the field. Most who wish to launch a career in the field of environmental sciences choose to enroll in a Bachelor degree. The two most common undergraduate degrees in this field are:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences

The Bachelor of Arts degree teaches about the environment from a humanities perspective while the Bachelor of Science degree focuses on the study of the environment through a scientific approach, where processes are examined in terms of biology, chemistry, geology and other sciences. These undergraduate level degrees teach students about subjects such as fire science, waste management, general science and mathematics among other topics.

There are many Master degree programs available to choose from within the field of environmental sciences as well. Such programs can help you specialize in a particular area if you decide on a degree in subjects such as forestry, coastal management or aquatic biology. You can also choose from programs such as:
  • Master of Arts in Environmental Studies
  • Master of Science in Environmental Sciences

Students in such programs develop advanced technical skills related to the environmental sciences. They also learn about conservation theory and gain an insight into complex environmental issues.

Areas of Study in Environmental Sciences
Environmental sciences programs cover a wide range of subjects which include:
  • Environmental microbiology
  • Environmental chemistry
  • Atmospheric sciences
  • Environmental policy
  • Conservation biology
  • Ecosystems and their analysis
  • Hydrology
  • Geophysics
  • Environmental sociology

Careers for Environmental Sciences Graduates
Environmental sciences experts can find various career options available to them in a range of different industries. Possible career titles include:
  • Environmental scientist
  • Environmental consultant
  • Geoscientist
  • Oceanographer
  • Science educator

Environmental scientists study and research the causes and effects of pollution in nature. They work out ways of improving the quality of air, water and soil. Environmental scientists can specialize in areas such as ecology or conservation among other subfields. Environmental consultants work with companies to ensure government regulations are met and waste products are removed in accordance with the law. Geoscientists study how pollution affects the physical structure of the earth. Oceanographers study the earth’s oceans and how climate and weather is impacted because of them. The average salary of an environmental scientist is 61,000 US dollars.

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

State

Employment

Employment per thousand jobs

Location quotient

Hourly mean wage

Annual mean wage

California 16600.111.2618.1337720
Florida 11300.141.6817.9737370
Illinois 9600.161.9217.937240
Texas 7600.070.7816.6234570
New York 6500.070.8520.1241840

Source: bls.gov

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:What is environmental science?

A:Environmental science is the study of the environment around us. It is a multidisciplinary academic field that integrates all biological and physical sciences such as ecology, chemistry, oceanology, soil science, geography, etc. Students can prepare for careers in this sector by earning an environmental science degree. Environmental science gained importance in recent decades as the need for analyzing complex environmental problems grew.

Q:Is environmental science a good major?

A:As the world climate and environment is changing, the need for professionals who can assess and mitigate environmental damage is on the rise. There are a number of career paths you can pursue with a degree in this field. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for environmental engineers is expected to grow by 15% in the coming years whereas the demand for environmental science and protection technicians is expected to grow 19% which is faster than average.

Q:What can i do with an environmental science degree?

A:With a degree in environmental science, you can prepare yourself for challenging yet exciting careers in this field. The demand for environmental science is expected to grow in the coming years. Some of the jobs that fall in this field are: research scientist, ecologist, geologist, oceanographer, lobbyist, environmental engineer, and environmental protection technician.

Q:Why is environmental science important as a degree?

A:The study of environmental science is very important in today's day and age, especially when we consider the environmental context of the times we are living in. Currently, global warming and climate change are affecting, and will continue to affect our planet in numerous ways. The study of environmental science gives you the knowledge and tools necessary to improve many natural resources and habitats, as well as our policies relating to them. Environmental science is a very pervasive discipline, the scope of which affects areas such as law, government policy, conservation, and research.

Q:Is environmental science a physical science?

A:Environmental and physical science are interrelated and overlap in numerous areas. However, under the broad umbrella of physical science, students can opt for specialization in areas such as environmental science, geology, etc. Environmental science is the study of the environment and its changes. The field incorporates other sciences such as mineralogy, atmospheric science, geography, etc.

Q:What can you do with a degree in environmental science?

A:A degree in environmental science can open a wide range of career possibilities for you due to the pervasive impacts and importance of this field of study. Degree holders are commonly found working in law firms, government institutions who deal with public policy, as well as in research positions. In addition, environmental science specialists can work as science educators or teachers, or even as environmental consultants.

Q:Can you tell me why environmental science is an interdisciplinary science?

A:Environmental science is considered an interdisciplinary science because its study spans and incorporated many different scientific fields and disciplines. For instance, in the study of this degree program, students can expect to learn everything from physics, chemistry, and biology. Furthermore, environmental science is the interrelated study of different types of science which include: basic science, earth science, and life science.

Q:Can you tel me in a few words what is environmental health science?

A:Environmental health science is the study of how the environment affects human health and diseases. Students are taught how physical, biological, and chemical elements of the environment, both natural and man-made, impact our health. An important aspect of environmental health science is determining how to use this information towards risk management, and effective healthcare policies with regards to the environment.

Q:What is the definition of environmental science?

A:Environmental science is basically the study of the environment and its relationship with organisms. The multidisciplinary field integrates numerous other branches of science such as geology, ecology, biological sciences, and even information sciences. Students majoring in environmental science will learn about the human interactions with the environment and different components.

Q:Is environmental science a natural science?

A:Environmental science includes the study of various physical sciences, organisms, and their relationship with the environment. Geology, geography, ecology, and biological sciences are a few of the areas that are covered in the field. Students studying environmental science will learn about human and organism interactions and how they play a role in defining the current environment.

Q:What does environmental science study?

A:The broad field of environmental science covers a wide range of sciences and disciplines. The field incorporates various physical, biological, and natural sciences. Students pursuing environmental science as a major will learn about the environment's various aspects and how it is affected by human interaction and organisms in today's time.

Q:What is environmental science about and what topics will I cover in this degree?

A:Environmental science is the study of the environment and its relationship with humans and other organisms. The field covers various natural, biological, and physical sciences. Students pursuing environmental science as a major will undergo a thorough study of courses such as marine biology, ecosystems, oceanography, astrobiology, complex system informatics, and more.

Q:What is the goal of environmental science?

A:Environmental science can be described as the study of the natural environment and how it is affected by our activities. The field enables us to thoroughly understand the degradation of the environment, how pollution and other factors contribute to its depletion. By better understanding the environment, we can devise and implement plans to improve the living environment, protect habitats, and counter issues such as global warming.

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