Environmental Science bachelor degree Jobs

As climate change becomes an inescapable global reality, the field of environmental science is more important than ever before. Environmental scientists and environmental management specialists must find ways to maintain a livable environment in the face of increasing human development and carbon emissions across the globe.

Environmental scientists study the effects of humans, industry, production and other sources of pollution on nature and the environment. Many of these professionals also do advocacy work, trying to curb as much environmental damage to nature, wildlife, and people as possible. They constantly attempt to come up with an approach to living, creating, and producing that is new, conservation-friendly, and appealing to the public.

An important goal of environmental science professionals is to find new ways to conserve and to improve the ways humans use energy and natural resources. For example, environmental scientists were the first to encourage recycling, solar power, and the development of hybrid cars. Through their work, environmental scientists convey hope and commitment to a public that is increasingly conscious of the interdependent relationship between man and nature. So, in this respect, the efforts of environmental science professionals are certainly not just scientific. In fact, the field of environmental science is also an influential force in politics and law.

Environmental scientists and environmental management specialists must be innovative in their approach to their work, constantly seeking new ways to increase their knowledge and expertise. College degrees are increasingly required in the field. Online degree programs often present appealing options to first-time students as well as existing environmental scientists seeking to boost their credentials.

Preparing For an Environmental Science Degree Program

The most important way to prepare for an environmental science degree program is to make the most of science, math, and computer courses offered by your high school. Potential environmental science and environmental management students should take every chemistry, geology, biology, physics, and geophysics course available. Not only will such courses provide you with a solid scientific background, but they will also prepare you for the rigorous requirements of intense degree programs.

In addition, consider your personal interests. The happiest and most successful employees are those who truly care about their work. This is certainly true in the field of environmental science. Many students are drawn to this field of science because they genuinely want to maintain and improve the environment.

Choosing the right school is incredibly important. Research all of the environmental science schools you are interested in attending. This research should be as detailed and thorough as possible. Speak with admissions counselors at each school, and explore financial aid and career service programs. If possible, contact a current student and ask her about her experience. While this may seem like a lot of effort, it is definitely worth it when you find the ideal degree program for your interests and desires.

Another way to prepare is to interview a current environmental scientist. Prepare a list of questions that will answer everything you want to know about your potential career. If possible, follow the environmental scientist around for a day and observe what a typical day in this field might be like. Not only can this experience affirm your decision to pursue a career in environmental science, but it can also provide insight into the day-to-day life of an environmental scientist.

Career Education in Environmental Science

Environmental science majors develop an in-depth knowledge of science and its current and potential environmental applications. This is a broad field of study, so students have many choices and may tailor their studies to a particular specialization. You might be a newcomer to the field, developing an initial set of general science skills before pursuing a more intense degree program. Or maybe you're an environmental engineer or scientist hoping to boost your career with advanced study. Whatever your interests or goals happen to be, an undergraduate or advanced degree is an educational resource that offers a variety of opportunity and options.

Online Degree Programs in Environmental Science

More accredited colleges and universities offer degree programs online than ever before, and this trend is expected to grow as advanced technology becomes more readily available. Not only are online college degree programs becoming more common, but they also sustain a solid reputation as an efficient way to pursue a degree while continuing to work. In an online environmental science degree program, students participate in online tutorials, web demonstrations, and simulated labs. Required field- or lab work may be arranged locally, or brief residencies might be required.

Certificate Programs in Environmental Science

Environmental science certificate programs are a worthwhile way for current academics, researchers and professionals to gain a more focused knowledge of environmental science. Online environmental science certificates are primarily designed for current scientists who have already obtained a certain level of education. For the most part, such programs encourage students to build skill sets in a specific facet of environmental science such as management, forestry, or environmental law.

Environmental management is a desirable position reserved for upper-level scientists with advanced education and training. Online management training is particularly useful to any current scientist hoping to advance in this direction. In addition, greater expertise in a specific segment of environmental science could certainly lead to better job opportunities and advancement. It is important to note that certificate programs vary from school to school, so discuss particular degree programs with school admissions counselors.

Bachelor's Degree Programs in Environmental Science

Earning a Bachelor of Science is the first step for most students in this field. BS degrees in environmental science and environmental management are the most common.

Some schools focus on a specific segment of environmental science or management, such as fire science, EPA regulations, waste management or environmental technology. Others are more general in nature, and provide students with a solid grasp of all of the fundamentals. Both types of programs will also focus on general science concepts, mathematics, computers, and technology. B.S. programs are thorough, intense and rigorous.

In addition to developing scientific knowledge, bachelor's degree students must also build writing, communication and critical thinking skills. In order for their ideas to be implemented, scientists must be able to effectively explain them to managers, policymakers and other non-scientists. This is especially important for environmental experts who work in law, politics or policy.

Serving as a Research Assistant: Gain Experience and Unlock Opportunities

An excellent way for environmental science students to get hands-on experience and set the pace for their careers is to participate in research assistant programs. College and university professors often work on individual projects during the summer months, and there is a good chance that a professor will allow her best students to serve as her summer research assistants. Participating in such an assistant role is an intelligent way to explore the work and efforts being made in the field of environmental science. The best research assistants are demonstrably bright and dedicated, and any student interested in such opportunities should make sure he obtains top-notch grades.