What can I do with a major in: Environmental Science

A bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science can open the door to a broad variety of roles and types of organizations. Some environmental scientists spend most of their time in the field – whether studying soil, sampling water sources, measuring air quality; while others engage primarily in writing and research from a desk. Virtually all careers in Environmental Science involve taking a deep interest in environmental phenomena and problems, with a focused intent to understand and, when needed, resolve them.

Overview of Environmental Science careers

Environmental scientists conduct research and investigate pollutants and hazards that affect the environment or public health. They collect, analyze and report on data such as pollution emissions, atmospheric monitoring, or soil and water samples.

Environmental scientists play e a significant role in communicating scientific information to the public or the organizations they work for, often through presentations and written reports. They may develop research models, and advise organizations and public offices about preventing environmental impacts, as well as measuring and documenting them when they occur. A strong theme of compliance with government regulations runs through these careers, so knowledge of regulations and requirements related to their specific area is often required.

Environmental Science career options

Many career options in Environmental Science require a bachelor’s degree in the field. Check out this list for a variety of Environmental Science-related careers; select a linked occupation to see typical tasks, salary, employment projections, education and training required, and more.

• Atmospheric Scientist
• Bioinformatics Technician
• Biological Oceanographer
• Biologist
• Biostatistician
• Biotechnologist
• Climate Change Analyst
• Decontamination Technician
• Ecologist
• Environmental Biologist
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Environmental Compliance Inspectors
• Environmental Data Analyst
• Environmental Economist
• Environmental Engineer
• Environmental Health Safety Technician
• Environmental Health Safety Trainer
• Environmental Monitor
• Environmental Restoration Planner
• Environmental Science Teachers, college
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists
• Environmental Writer
• Fire Prevention and Protection Engineers
• Forensic Biologist
• Geographic Information Systems Technician
• Groundwater Sampling Technician
• Habitat Restoration Engineer
• Habitat Specialist
• Industrial Ecologist
• Integrated Water Resources Manager
• Lab Technician
• Land Management Specialist
• Marine Biologist
• Marine Science Educator
• Oceanographer
• Open Space Planner
• Park Naturalist
• Pollution Prevention Technician
• Regulatory Affairs Specialists
• Remote Sensing Technicians
• Safety Supervisor
• Seismologist
• Sustainability Specialist
• Treatment Storage Disposal Technician

Types of organizations that hire Environmental Scientists

The majority of environmental scientists work in government, though growth is expected in the private sector. Most government positions are at the state level. A number of positions in private companies involve conducting scientific work, management, or consulting with companies to help ensure they comply with environmental regulations

Join Environmental Science professional associations

Joining a professional association can help you:

• Develop a network of peers in your occupation or industry
• Find professional development opportunities to help you advance your career—or enter a new field
• Keep current on changes in your field through conferences and publications

Check out these prominent professional associations for environmental scientists, and find more on the Professional Association Finder.

• The American Geosciences Institute (AGI)
• The National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP)
• Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences
• National Council for Science and the Environment
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences

 Certifications for Environmental Science careers

Certifications demonstrate that you have specific skills or knowledge. Some employers require or prefer a particular certification, and many people earn them to advance in their careers. Check out these examples of Environmental Science-related certifications, and find more on the Certification Finder.

• ISSP Sustainability Associate – International Society of Sustainability Professionals
• Certified Environmental Scientist – National Registry of Environmental Professionals
• Qualified Environmental Professional – Institute of Professional Environmental Practice