Environmental science seeks to understand and protect our environment. It encompasses many disciplines, like biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and computer science. Read on for an overview of environmental science job options, responsibilities, degree programs, and the career outlook.
Environmental Science Overview
Environmental science is a multidisciplinary field that explores the dynamics between Earth systems, flora, fauna and humans. It involves research on air, water, soil, food, and wildlife to help understand system processes, identify environmental damage or hazards, and develop solutions to environmental concerns. Environmental scientists may work as environmental consultants, horticulturists, ecologists, hydrologists, park rangers, and conservation planners.
Environmental scientists commonly work for private businesses and governmental organizations, as well as public organizations. They often split their time between collecting samples and monitoring conditions in the field, analyzing data in the lab and writing reports in the office.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutEnvironmentalScientistsAndSpecialists"> Important Facts About Environmental Scientists and Specialists</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Important Qualities</td><td>Analytical skills, self-discipline, problem-solving skills, communication skills</td></tr>
<tr><td>Required Education</td><td>Bachelor's degree in environmental or a related science; master's degree may be required for advancement</td></tr>
<tr><td>Required Certifications</td><td>Some states require environmental science technicians to have licensing & certification to perform specific types of inspections</td></tr>
<tr><td>Similar Occupations</td><td>Environmental scientist: atmospheric scientist/meteorologist, forester, epidemiologist. Environmental science technician: environmental engineer, geoscientist, agricultural & food science technician.</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021)* </td><td> $76,530</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)* </td><td> 5%</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---EnvironmentalScienceEducation"> Environmental Science Education</h3><p>Environmental science degree programs are available from the associate's through doctoral degree levels. Some associate's degrees in environmental science may be technology-focused and designed to prepare graduates for employment, or they may be transfer degree programs. Associate's degree programs include those in energy management and climate policy, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship.
</p><p>Several environmental science bachelor's degree programs are available. Coursework may cover environmental policy, environmental justice, sustainability, environmental chemistry, ecology, biogeochemistry, and environmental law, among other topics. Schools may offer specializations in areas such as toxicology, natural resource management, and environmental education.
</p><p>Students who are interested in pursuing research may earn a master's or PhD degree in environmental science. Practical field work and an internship may be part of the graduation requirements, along with a thesis or dissertation. Graduates may be able to find research positions with major organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Science Foundation. Popular advanced professional degrees in environmental science include the Master of Public Health and Doctor of Public Health degrees in environmental health sciences.
</p><h3 id="section---EmploymentInformation"> Employment Information</h3><p>Education in environmental science can lead to many different careers in research and public policy. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for environmental science technicians and environmental scientists is expected to increase due to high demand to resolve environmental concerns and stricter environmental laws and policies.
</p><p>Job growth is predicted to be 6% for environmental science and protection technicians and 5% for environmental scientists and specialists from 2021-2031. Also listed by the BLS, the 2020 average salary for environmental science and protection technicians was $50,550 and for environmental scientists and specialists, it was $81,240.</p>
