Environmental science prepares students for a career in protecting the earth. Individuals that are committed to a green lifestyle and want to do what they can to protect the environment may want to pursue an environmental sciences program at a college or university. This career will let the student work to protect natural resources.
Typical Environmental Science Courses
The exact courses that a student will take will depend on the program they enroll in and the school they enroll in. Some possible areas of study include:
- Environmental Data Analysis
- Political Ecology
- Wetlands Management
- Introduction to the Environment
- Environmental Ethics
- Environmental Justice
- Environmental Aesthetics
Job Opportunities in Environmental Science
The world is currently concerned with the depletion of natural resources and society’s carbon foot print. There are several environmental groups that are pushing for more emphasis on these issues, such as PETA and the Sierra Club. These organizations will need dedicated individuals that are trained in environmental science, and governmental organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency will also need employees that are dedicated to enforcing environmental policy. Other environmental science majors may be employed within the private sector or they can pursue careers in education or research.
Career Outlook for Environmental Science
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the demand for environmental scientists was expected to grow by close to 17% by 2014. Much of this growth is expected to occur within the private sector, as many industries are being forced to conform public standards regarding environmental protection regulations. The more experience and education a person holds, the better prepared they will be to serve in a position where they need to protect natural resources and the environment.
Average Salary in Environmental Science
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual salary for an environmental scientist was $61,010 per year. The federal government will pay one of the highest salaries. The salaries in this position will depend on experience level, education, and the region of the world the individual lives in.