About Environmental Science

Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary study of how natural and man-made processes interact with one another and ultimately affect the various biomes of Earth. It includes Ecology, Biology, Zoology, Oceanography, Atmospheric Science, Soil Science, Geology, and Chemistry. It arose from the fields of Natural History and Medicine during the enlightenment and early industrial revolution.

　　Environmental Science endeavours to seek solutions to the deteriorating state of our environment. It works towards developing an understanding of the ecological causes and effects. Through research, investigation, and modeling, environmental scientists develop and advance theories about how and why things happen in our environment. During the course of your study, you'll learn the skills necessary to launch a successful Environmental Science career.

　　

Is Environmental Science right for me?

If you are someone who is motivated to safeguard the environment, then studying Environmental Science is a good fit for you. Studying Environmental Science will allow you to view the world from a new perspective, identifying significant issues such as global warming and pollution. You will think about the consequences of anthropogenic activities and how the degradation of the environment can be brought to a halt.

　　Studying Environmental Science fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills through researching and investigating complex environmental issues. It helps students become acquainted with ever-changing environmental procedures and allows them to shine in a career that is financially rewarding while bettering the environment.

　　This field of study allows you to learn about the broader picture. For research and analysis, you may be required to travel to different cities or even countries. It provides students with increased exposure while travelling and exploring various environmental aspects to help reduce humans' damage to the environment. If you are someone who enjoys fieldwork alongside a healthy dose of lab work with the end goal of protecting the environment, then this field might be just what you've been looking for!

　　

Study options and costs

　　A large number of universities offer bachelor's degree programmes in Environmental Science. Almost all accredited, well-known Liberal Arts colleges offer Environmental Science programmes in some form or another. The programmes' quality frequently varies from one institute to another. The average tuition fee for Environmental Science bachelor's programmes is $28,132 for international students.

　　Master's degrees are typically preferred for entry-level positions in the environmental sector unless the individual has extensive working experience. Individuals with an MS in Environmental Science can find well-paying job opportunities in the job market. Similar to a bachelor's in Environmental Science, master's programmes in Environmental Science are popular worldwide. The average tuition fee for Environmental Science master's programmes is $11,428 for $21,207 for international students.

　　Students enter doctoral programmes primarily to conduct independent research. This can take 3 to 6 years, depending on the programme. Perhaps you've decided that you want to be recognised as a thought leader in your field and research topics that intrigue you. In that case, a PhD is most likely the best option. Doctoral degree holders find lucrative employment opportunities in academia. The average total cost for a PhD in Environmental Science will range between $50,000 and $150,000.

　　

Future outlook

Climate change, extinction of endangered species, and deforestation are just a few of the world's most pressing environmental issues. These changes have a colossal impact on our lives, and as a result, environmental concerns are getting widespread public attention. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for environmental scientists is $73,230. These figures are only expected to rise as more funding is channeled to tackle environmental challenges.

　　Consulting services employ roughly one-quarter of environmental scientists, according to the BLS. On the other hand, state and local governments employ approximately 34% of all environmental scientists. About 9% of Environmental Science professionals work in engineering services. There are numerous options available, ranging from environmental policy careers to consultancy. The abundance of opportunities coupled with high-salary packages make Environmental Science a promising career for many.

　　

Career pathways for Environmental Science graduates

　　

Environmental Chemist

　　Environmental chemists collect and test soil, air, and water samples to determine their quality and impact on the environment. These professionals seek to identify and prevent environmental threats to people, plants, and animals. The average annual salary of an environmental chemist is $61,413.

　　

Wildlife Biologist

　　Wildlife biologists primarily study animals and conduct assessments in their natural habitat to determine the impact on the animals. They also research animal characteristics to classify them and identify new species. The average annual salary of a wildlife biologist is $64,119.

　　

Environment Biologist

　　Environmental biologists assess current environmental conditions and the effects of various factors on the environment. They collect environmental samples to study, analyse, and devise plans to aid in the protection of different life forms. The average annual salary of an environmental biologist is $75,756.

　　

Environmental Health Officer

　　Environmental health officers help maintain proper environmental standards in both the public and private sectors. They are in charge of monitoring and enforcing various environmental and public health standards. They ensure that a corporation is adhering to governmental regulations regarding the environment. The average annual salary of an environmental health officer is $82,879.