Environmental Science Major Salary

Experienced environmental policy analysts may earn up to $145, 000.

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A Bachelor of Arts in environmental studies teaches students about global environmental problems and how to work toward future sustainability. The program focuses on areas of study such as ecosystem science, climate change and environmental governance. Graduates work in a variety of environmental-related fields such as solid waste management, forestry and outdoor recreation. Environmental scientists and specialists make about $63, 570 on average yearly. However, this figure varies according to the precise field an environmental studies graduate chooses.

Urban Planning

Urban planning is one possible field for environmental studies grads. Urban planners create programs for land use in order to manage population growth, develop communities and boost facilities in a given area. The average salary for planners was $65, 230 as of May 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The salary range is $41, 490 to $97, 630. On the other hand, the American Planning Association cites the average salary as $71, 000 in a 2012 salary survey. Those with less than three years experience make an average of $45, 000 annually.

Environmental Education

Nonprofits and businesses need employees who can communicate effectively with the public about environmental issues. A job in environmental education nets an average of $52, 000 annually, according to Indeed.com. A job specifically in environmental communications rings in slightly higher at $54, 000. Environmental Communications and Public Relations Directors make an average of $63, 308, according to a 2013 salary study by the Non-Profit Times. The average starting salary for those working in communications, regardless of place of employment, is $30, 667, according to CNN.

Related Reading: Careers for a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science

Environmental Conservation Officer

Environmental conservation officers are charged with protecting the environment and natural resources. They look into complaints about violations of conservation laws, and teach students, service groups and other local organizations about environmental policies. Trainees in the state of New York initially make $53, 304. Once the employee has completed her two years of training, her salary becomes $60, 769. Conservation scientists overall make an average of $61, 100 per year; with federal employees drawing an average of $71, 110; state employees earning $53, 310; social advocacy positions netting $52, 820; and local government workers making $51, 230.

Environmental Policy Analyst

Environmental policy analysts or specialists build policies and environmental legislation for government or nonprofit organizations. They may also draw up environmentally sensitive business practices. Environmental policy analysts make approximately $63, 000 annually, according to Indeed.com. Policy analysts in general make $31, 740 as lower-level support workers in government. Experienced analysts at the federal level make $93, 000 to $145, 000, depending on their level of expertise. Salaries for analysts in the private sector vary depending on the organization's budget and the worker's qualifications.