The B.S. degree in
Environmental and Soil Sciences with a concentration
in Environmental Science includes the study of land,
soil, and water resources, and their role in natural
and managed ecosystems. It provides students with
a strong background in basic sciences and
technology that prepares them for careers in
environmental consulting, natural resource
management, soil science, and agriculture.
In addition to science and technology courses,
students learn about societal issues related to the
environment, such as policy, economics, and ethics.
Students develop expertise with modern technologies
such as geographical information systems, global
positioning systems, and career-related computer
applications. The degree also has a strong
communication component that helps students gain
communication skills needed in today’s workplace.
Most students participate in an internship program
that leads to real-world experiences in
environmentally-related careers.
Some Environmental Science graduates pursue
careers related to food and fiber production; others
focus on environmental remediation or compliance;
others may work as research assistants; many
continue with graduate studies. The curriculum
prepares graduates for an interesting and challenging
career path working with other professionals to solve
complex environmental problems. Examples of
potential careers include: reclaiming contaminated
sites; designing and monitoring landfills; analyzing
and protecting rural or urban water supplies;
planning for stormwater; working in a university or
industry setting as a specialist or scientist; private
consulting in environmental and agricultural areas;
and working with non-governmental organizations.
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Employers include environmental or agricultural
consulting firms, government regulatory agencies at
the state and federal levels, public health services,
environmental laboratories, and agricultural
production companies.
Median annual earnings of environmental
scientists were $51,080 in May 2004. The middle
50 percent earned between $39,100 and $67,360.
Average earnings per sector include: Federal
government - $73,530; Management, scientific,
and technical consulting services - $51,190; Local
government - $48,870; State government -
$46,850.
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According to the National Association of Colleges
and Employers, beginning salary offers in July
2005 for graduates with bachelor’s degrees in
environmental science averaged $31,366 a year
High School Preparation
Successful students in environmental science
typically have a strong high school background in
science, particularly biology and chemistry. Other
useful traits are interest in environmental issues, a
love of the outdoors, good communication abilities,
both written and verbal, and experience with
computers. A strong background in these areas will
enable you to more easily begin your college work.
Also, if you are able to earn advanced placement
credit in some of these areas, you may have
additional options later in your degree program.
These could include taking specialized courses that
interest you, working in a lab, or contributing to a
research project, thus providing valuable experience
and improving your employment opportunities.