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SAMPLE COURSES
Social Sciences Coursework, Resource Management, Environmental History, Environmental Compliance, and Environmental Sampling
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COMMON MAJORS
Biology and Chemistry
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POTENTIAL JOBS
Technician, i.e. laboratory assistant
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AVERAGE INCOME
$42,190 per year
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EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS
9% growth from 2014 to 2024
Online Environmental Science Degrees
Public concern for the environment is at an all-time high, and employment in the field of environmental science is expected to grow by 15% through 2022. Environmental scientists and specialists are instrumental in cleaning up polluted areas, working with businesses and industries to reduce waste, and serving as advisers to legislators. Most of the growth in the field comes from private consulting firms, but an increasing number of environmental scientists are being hired by government agencies.
Environmental scientists and specialists demonstrate strong communication, problem solving, and analytical skills. They should be able to work well with others and work alone without supervision. Many students who join this burgeoning field opt to get their environmental science degree online.
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Online Environmental Science Degree Overview
Degree | Avg Degree Cost | Avg Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
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Associate | $8,706 | 14.32% | 2 years | $39,700 | $57,300 | N/A |
Bachelor's | $17,870 | 11.01% | 4 years | $42,100 | $73,500 | 4% |
Master's | $17,709 | 7.87% | 2+ years | $50,400 | $84,700 | 2.8% |
A bachelor’s degree in environmental science or other science-related fields such as biology, chemistry, or engineering is the preferred minimum requirement in this career path. Professionals entering the field often take positions as field analysts, research assistants, technicians, or faculty at colleges and universities, and can advance to become project leaders, program managers, or research managers. A higher degree level results in higher ROI, and master’s and doctorate students who earn their environmental science degree online will find more job opportunities and higher salaries.
Online Environmental Science Degrees
Online Associate’s Degree in Environmental Science
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science
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SAMPLE COURSES
Hydrology, Waste Management, Environmental Policy And Regulation, and Environmental Technology
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COMMON MAJORS
Environmental Science
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POTENTIAL JOBS
Human Resources Manager, Sales Executive, and Health Educator
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AVERAGE INCOME
$66,250 per year
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EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS
15% growth through 2022
Online Master’s Degree in Environmental Science
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SAMPLE COURSES
Environmental Scientist, Environmental Science Manager, Geoscientist, Oceanographer, and Environmental Consultant
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COMMON MAJORS
Fire Science And Emergency Management, Disaster Preparedness, Environmental Science, and Wildlife and Forestry
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POTENTIAL JOBS
Environmental Scientist, Environmental Science Manager, Geoscientist, Oceanographer, and Environmental Consultant
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AVERAGE INCOME
$76,260 for Physical Scientists, $66,250 for environmental scientists and specialists
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EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS
15% growth through 2022
Online Doctorate Degree in Environmental Science
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SAMPLE COURSES
Transportation Of Hazardous Materials, Environmental Resource Management, Deforestation, and Land-Use Waste Management
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COMMON MAJORS
Environmental Science, Education, Environmental Education, and Environmental Psychology
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POTENTIAL JOBS
Geoscientist, Atmospheric Scientists, Soil And Plant Scientist, Marine Scientist, and Environmental Educator
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AVERAGE INCOME
$76,260 for physical scientists, $90,890 for geoscientists, $89,260 for atmospheric scientists, and $59,920 for soil and plant scientists
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EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS
15% growth through 2022
Online Environmental Science Find Accredited Degrees
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Average Environmental Science Salaries
Wildlife Biologist
Growth Rate 2014-2024 | Number of Jobs: 2014 | Degree | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
4% | 21,300 | Bachelor's | CWB (optional) |
Wildlife biologists study animals’ characteristics, behaviors, and the impact that humans have on their habitats. They collect biological data and specimens for analysis, research animal interaction and reproduction, and develop breeding and conservation programs for endangered species. While a bachelor’s degree is required to enter this field, professionals often earn an advanced environmental science online degree to take part in investigative or scientific work. A PhD is necessary for independent research and for university research positions. Professionals in this field should have good communication skills, the ability to withstand long periods without human interaction, interpersonal skills to work in teams, the ability to withstand the elements, and problem-solving skills.
Environmental Engineer
Growth Rate 2014-2024 | Number of Jobs: 2014 | Degree | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
12% | 55,100 | Bachelor's | None |
Environmental engineers use knowledge of engineering, biology, chemistry, and other natural sciences to solve environmental problems. They are involved in the development of waste disposal methods and solutions to climate change, pollution, and a sustainable environment. These engineers prepare reports of their investigations, design projects to protect the environment, and provide technical support for environmental projects and legal cases. A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, civil, chemical, or general engineering is required to enter this field. Essential traits for this position include the ability to design systems, interpersonal skills, the ability to identify and anticipate problems, and excellent reading and writing skills.
Environmental Chemist
Growth Rate 2014-2024 | Number of Jobs: 2014 | Degree | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
10% | 94,600 | Masters | None |
Environmental chemists study how chemicals, waste, and pollution affect humans, plants, and animals. They research ways to reduce and prevent hazards by collecting samples of water, soil, and air for testing, and are highly skilled in data analysis and integration, digital mapping, and geographic information systems. To enter this field, applicants must have a master’s degree and undergraduate work in chemistry, environmental science, or a related natural science. Professionals can fulfill these requirements by earning an online environmental science degree. For research and academic jobs in the field, a PhD is necessary.
Environmental Health Specialist
Growth Rate 2014-2024 | Number of Jobs: 2014 | Degree | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
9% | 88,740 | Bachelor's | None |
Environmental specialists collect data for research projects, surveys, and scientific analysis, and assess threats to people and the environment. These specialists also advise policymakers, businesses, and industries on what can be done to address environmental concerns. To enter this field, professionals must hold a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or in a related natural science. They must also be computer-savvy, have skills in data analysis and integration, digital mapping, and geographic information systems, all of which can be learned while earning an environmental science online degree. Higher pay is commensurate with higher qualifications and responsibilities.
Climate Change Analyst
Growth Rate 2014-2024 | Number of Jobs: 2014 | Degree | Certifications |
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11% | 94,600 | Bachelor's | None |
Climate change analysts collect data on atmospheric temperatures, ocean conditions, and greenhouse gases to forecast the effects of climate change on sea and land. They are key in giving policy makers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders the empirical scientific evidence needed to inform policy making and educate the public. A bachelor’s degree in environmental science or related fields is the minimum requirement to become a climate change analyst. Students who earn an advanced environmental science degree online will be more heavily involved with scientific aspects of climate change, such as the development of mathematical models.