2023 Environmental Science Degree Guide (2024)

FAQs

What degree is best for environmental science? ›

Environmental science programs are typically offered as BS degrees as these programs focus on natural science. Featured environmental science classes include pollution science, environmental science and sustainability, and soil science.

Earning a bachelor's degree in either environmental science or environmental studies takes hard work but is also incredibly rewarding. You'll spend a lot of time in science and lab courses learning complex concepts and working with new materials and equipment.

However, those applying for an undergraduate (bachelor's) degree in environmental science can expect to be asked for a diploma of secondary education, including good grades in at least one of the following related subjects: biology, chemistry, economics, geography, geology, mathematics or physics.

These five fields are atmospheric sciences, ecology, environmental chemistry, geosciences, and social sciences.

But the pay can still be substantial. While it's not the highest-paying career field, environmental science can bring salaries of $70,000, $80,000, and even $90,000, and many of these positions are available to people fresh out of college with no career experience.

For anyone wondering: “Is environmental science a good major?” It's not surprising that the answer is yes. Green jobs are expected to grow faster than the national average through 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

AP Environmental Science is an interesting and applicable class, where you will use more math knowledge to solve environmental problems. It is a less rigorous class academically compared to AP Bio and also requires less memorization of concepts.

Overall, environmental science students rate their satisfaction with their degree a 3.4 out of 5.

One of the biggest disadvantages of a degree in environmental science is the economic implications. As with any degree, there is a cost associated with obtaining a degree in environmental science, including tuition, fees, and living expenses.

What is the highest paying job in environmental science? ›

Environmental science encompasses various disciplines, from biology and chemistry to geology and ecology. As such, a strong foundation in mathematics is essential for students pursuing degrees in this field.

Earth and Environmental Science and Sustainability Science

These programs both require: Two semesters of Math (MATH111 Pre-calculus or higher)

We recommend that ESCS-focused math programs include, along with standard beginning mathematics major material, at least four applied courses such as mathematical modeling, numerical analysis, operations research, ordinary differential equations, partial differential equations, statistics, and probability.

In addition, many students use their environmental sciences degree as a stepping stone into medical, dental, or other professional schools.

For anyone wondering: “Is environmental science a good major?” It's not surprising that the answer is yes. Green jobs are expected to grow faster than the national average through 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Those who want to get a job with the EPA can choose a natural science degree, like in biology and chemistry, or a technical degree, such as statistics and environmental engineering. For example, environmental engineers usually have a bachelor's degree in civil or chemical engineering.

Addressing Climate Change And Global Warming

To do anything impactful, we need professionals who fully understand the extent of the problem and have the skills to create new, innovative solutions. A B.S. in Environmental Science and Climate Change can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to combat global warming.

Working in the environmental studies field can be a rewarding and beneficial career experience. From studying weather patterns to teaching students about important environmental impacts, there are a lot of jobs you can pursue with an environmental studies degree.