What Is an Environmental Science Degree? Key Insights and Career Paths

02/28/2025

What Is Environmental Science?

According to Encyclopedia Britannica, environmental science is "interdisciplinary academic field that draws on ecology, geology, meteorology, biology, chemistry, engineering and physics to study environmental problems and human impacts on the environment."

Environmental science degrees also draw from economics, business, and sociology. Students often complete specializations within a more select area, such as energy, sustainability, or conservation.

Environmental science differs from environmental studies, which "emphasizes the human relationship with the environment and the social and political dimensions."

Importance of Studying Environmental Science

Understanding the Interconnectedness of Ecosystems

Environmental science may help us understand the complex interactions that occur in ecosystems and the impacts humans have on them. Ecosystems operate as webs of interdependence where "the relationships shared by organisms of different species that are essential to life in many different organisms found in the environment."

By studying environmental science and the way humans interact with the earth, it may be helpful tool for preserving natural resources, mitigating environmental issues, and promoting environmental health. When we understand how delicate the balance is between natural systems, environmental scientists may spend their careers using that knowledge to make more informed decisions to positively impact the world, promote sustainability and protect biodiversity.

The Modern Field of Environmental Science

Although humans have been studying the environment for a long time, environmental science became more mainstream in the 1960s and 1970s when public awareness and concerns developed around social, political and scientific developments to "study the effects of human actions on the environment" like toxins and chemicals.

1. Raising public awareness and activism: For example, biologist Rachel Carson's book, Silent Spring, published in 1962, influenced a generation as it discussed the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment, such as DDT.
2. Environmental disasters: In 1969, pollution cause the Cuyahoga River to catch fire which brought national attention to the need for environmental regulation. Also in 1969, the Santa Barbara oil spill "fouled beaches with millions of gallons of spilled oil."
3. Government action: In 1970, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was formed to help regulate pollution and provide environmental protections and launch air and water quality initiatives with the Clean Air Act (1970) and Clean Water Act (1972). The Endangered Species Act followed in 1973.
4. Nuclear cultural and political influence: Events like the partial nuclear meltdown at Three Mile Island in 1979 brought more national attention and awareness of the potential dangers of nuclear power. The EPA took on regulating environmental safety regarding radiation and the growing concerns over nuclear energy's impact on public health and ecosystems.

Environmental Science Degrees and Education

Types of Environmental Science Degrees

There are several different types of environmental science degrees. Environmental science degrees come with different levels of study and specific focus areas.

• Associate degree: This two-year entry-level degree may provide foundational knowledge of biology, chemistry or environmental policy.
• Bachelor's degree: This four-year degree may offer a more comprehensive experience for environmental science majors to learn about environmental systems, ecology, pollution, global climate change and sustainable solutions.
  
  A bachelor of arts (BA) in environmental science explores social and natural sciences. Some core courses may include environmental law or public policy.
  
  A bachelor of science (BS) in environmental science explores the technical and more science-focused areas like ecological principles, environmental science research or general biology.


• Master’s degree: This degree may take up to two years to complete and allow students to specialize in a specific area of environmental science. Advanced coursework and research opportunities may be available in fields such as environmental engineering, environmental policy, global climate change, ecosystem management, environmental health or renewable energy systems.
• Doctorate degree: This program is typically 3-5 years and is highly-specialized and focused. Doctoral students usually conduct their own research in specific areas. Some specialties may include environmental toxicology, environmental research, policy-making, management, climate change science, environmental chemistry, conservation science or environmental economics

Environmental Science Accreditation

Accreditation ensures that the program meets high academic standards, supporting students in their pursuit of quality education and professional development in the field. Some key benefits of enrolling in an accredited environmental science degree program may include:

• High-quality education with rigorous standards
• Qualified faculty members who may be experts in their field
• Enhanced career opportunities with licensing and certification
• Transferability of credits
• Academic and professional recognition
• Comprehensive and relevant curriculum
• Research and internship opportunities

Common accreditation types for environmental science programs may include:

• National Environmental Health, Science and Protective Accreditation Council (EHAC)
• Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) for related engineering programs
• Board Certified Environmental Scientist (BCES)

Career Paths With an Environmental Science Degree

Job Prospects and Career Opportunities Within Environmental Science

Environmental scientists can enter the workforce immediately or pursue higher education to conduct extensive research. Numerous career paths are available and may include environmental consulting, research, policy-making, and management.

Environmental science degrees are flexible and may open doors to many career opportunities, including environmental health and safety specialist, conservation land manager, soil and water conservationist, and park ranger for a national park service.

Graduates may also find work within government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or in a private industry of their choosing.

Emerging Trends and Specializations in Environmental Sciences

Sustainability and Renewable Energy

The search for alternatives to fossil fuels has led to more rapidly advancing technologies for renewable energy and sustainable technologies.

• Environmental scientists may have the opportunity to develop innovative solutions for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices. Specializations in sustainability and renewable energy may lead to careers in green technology, sustainable business practices, and environmental policy-making.
• Solar, wind and geothermal energy are all emerging technologies to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels.
• Innovative energy storage systems like batteries and smart grid technologies are being developed with a hope to improve the efficiency and reliability of more renewable energy sources.
• Green infrastructure such as green buildings, rain gardens and other eco-friendly construction alternatives may help to reduce carbon footprints.

Professional Development and Growth

Environmental Science Professional Certifications and Licenses

Professional certifications and licenses may complement career prospects for environmental science graduates.

Certifications in areas such as environmental management, sustainability, and renewable energy can demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.

Continuing education and professional development may be essential for staying current with emerging trends and environmental technologies in different fields.

Some common environmental science certifications may include:

• Associate Environmental Professional (AEP)
• Registered Environmental Manager (REM)
• Registered Environmental Professional (REP)
• Certified Environmental and Safety Compliance Officer (CESCO)
• Registered Environmental Property Assessor (REPA)
• LEED Green Associate

Take the Next Step

Ready to take the next step toward an impactful career in environmental science? Learn more about the process and requirements by visiting our guide on how to get a degree in environmental science.