Career outlook: Environmental science
What can I do with a degree in environmental science?
Students earning a degree in environmental science will graduate with a general knowledge of environmental science as part of a broad liberal arts education and will have a strong academic foundation to stand upon should they wish to pursue graduate education.
Graduates of the program will have opportunities to pursue careers in many different functional areas, with most students pursuing careers in environmental remediation/compliance, waste management, soil science, air/water quality management, planning and conservation, environmental education and communication and environmental law.
Careers in geology
Learn more about a career in geology.
Transferrable skills
An environmental science degree offers skills in:
- Critical thinking
- Written and oral communication
- Scientific reasoning skills and laboratory experience
- Awareness of global environmental issues and common anthropogenic effects
Career insights by degree
- Bachelor of Arts in Geology
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
- Bachelor of Science in Geology
- Master of Arts in Environmental Science
- Master of Arts in Geology
- Master of Science in Geology
Still want more information about what degree is right for you? Visit our Career Insights explorer tool to learn more.
Selected environmental science-related career information
Learn more about careers, internships and volunteer positions in forestry and fire.
Graduate study
This degree also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in:
- Environmental science (M.A. or M.S.)
- Geological sciences
- Forest science
- Crop and soil science
- Biological sciences and conservation biology
Professional associates related to environmental science
Joining a professional association
Before beginning any foray into a professional association, why should you consider joining one? USA Today explains five benefits of joining a professional association:
- Internship and job opportunities
- Conferences
- Industry standards
- Code of ethics
- Updates on policies
Professional associations related to environmental science
- American Geosciences Institute (AGI)
- Association of Environmental and Engineering Geologists (AEG)
- Crop Society of America
- Ecological Society of America (ESA)
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
- National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP)
- National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF)
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- Sierra Club
- Society for Conservation Biology
- Soil Science Society of America
- Student Conservation Association (SCA)
- The Coastal Society
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Notable people with an environmental science major
- Lowell Bailey (biathlete)
- Patrick Chung (venture capitalist)
- Susan Fennell (former mayor of Brampton, Ontario, 2000-14)
- Pamela Matson (ecologist)