What Can You Do With an Environmental Science Degree in 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What does an environmental scientist do on a daily basis?

Environmental scientists balance fieldwork, data analysis, and communication to solve real-world environmental problems. Their daily tasks vary depending on the industry, but most involve a mix of research, compliance, and problem-solving. Here are some examples:

• Conduct fieldwork and collect samples: Environmental scientists often spend part of their day outdoors gathering soil, water, air, or biological samples. These samples are later analyzed to assess environmental quality and identify potential hazards.
• Analyze data in labs or with software tools: They use laboratory equipment, statistical programs, and Geographic Information System (GIS) software to interpret environmental data. This analysis helps determine patterns, track pollution, and support decision-making.
• Prepare reports and communicate findings: Scientists write technical reports and present their results to policymakers, businesses, or the public. Their work provides the evidence needed to guide regulations and environmental strategies.
• Monitor compliance with environmental regulations: Many environmental scientists inspect facilities or review processes to ensure they meet federal, state, or local standards. They play a key role in protecting human health and natural ecosystems.
• Develop solutions for environmental challenges: They propose and test methods to reduce pollution, restore damaged habitats, or improve resource efficiency. These solutions often balance scientific insight with practical, real-world applications.

How long does it usually take to obtain an environmental science degree?

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in environmental science is designed to be completed in four years of full-time study, equivalent to roughly 120 semester credit hours spread across eight academic terms.

Many universities, such as the Missouri University of Science and Technology, explicitly structure their Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program to be completed over four years, featuring a blend of required foundational coursework and an immersive capstone project in the senior year.

However, completion time can vary based on individual circumstances. Some students may finish in three years if they have transfer credits, take heavier course loads, or enroll in summer sessions. Others may even shorten their academic path by planning ahead for a fast track online master’s in environmental management, allowing them to transition more quickly into graduate-level study.

Conversely, students pursuing part-time schedules, changing majors, or those whose programs include additional concentrations might take longer than four years.

What technical skills do you learn in an environmental science degree?

An environmental science degree provides students with a strong foundation of technical skills that can be applied in research, industry, and policy work. These skills combine hands-on laboratory techniques, data-driven analysis, and advanced technology applications, all of which are essential for addressing environmental challenges.

• Laboratory analysis: Students learn how to perform chemical, biological, and physical tests on air, water, and soil samples. These laboratory techniques generate accurate data that can be used to assess pollution levels, ecosystem health, and resource quality.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Students gain training in digital mapping, spatial analysis, and geospatial data interpretation. GIS skills allow graduates to track land use changes, study habitat distributions, and support environmental planning projects.
• Remote sensing and environmental monitoring: Students practice using tools such as drones, satellites, and automated sensors to collect environmental data. These technologies provide large-scale insights into issues like climate change, deforestation, and urban growth.
• Statistical and data analysis: Students develop skills in using software such as R, Python, and Excel to analyze and model data. These methods help them identify patterns, test scientific hypotheses, and make informed, evidence-based decisions.
• Environmental modeling and simulation: Students learn to build and apply models that simulate air, water, and soil systems. These models help predict the impacts of human activity and evaluate potential solutions for environmental problems.
• Geology and hydrology methods: Many programs teach field-based techniques such as soil classification, groundwater sampling, and streamflow measurement. These methods are essential for understanding natural resource systems and assessing human impacts.
• Risk assessment and environmental compliance testing: Training includes methods for assessing environmental risks and testing whether sites comply with local, state, and federal regulations. Graduates who want to advance quickly may consider the fastest master’s in environmental sustainability online, which builds on these skills and opens doors to higher-level consulting roles.

What jobs can you get with an environmental science degree?

An environmental science degree opens the door to a wide range of careers across government, industry, non-profits, and research. The skills gained in science, analysis, and problem-solving allow graduates to pursue both traditional environmental roles and interdisciplinary positions.

For those exploring related fields, it’s worth noting that transferable skills in research, communication, and assessment also open pathways in areas such as healthcare and education—similar to the way jobs you can do with a degree in communication disorders rely on analytical, observational, and interpersonal expertise to support individuals in clinical and educational settings.

Here are some of the most common paths:

• Environmental consultant: Consultants advise companies, municipalities, and organizations on how to minimize their environmental impact. They often conduct site assessments, prepare compliance reports, and develop sustainable management strategies.
• Conservation scientist: Conservation scientists work to protect natural resources such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They collaborate with landowners and government agencies to balance ecological health with human use.
• Wildlife biologist: Wildlife biologists study animal populations, habitats, and behavior to inform conservation efforts. They may conduct field surveys, monitor endangered species, and develop strategies for biodiversity protection.
• Environmental educator: Environmental educators teach students and the public about sustainability and natural sciences. They can work in schools, museums, parks, or nonprofit organizations to promote awareness and engagement.
• Environmental policy analyst: Policy analysts evaluate environmental laws and regulations to assess their effectiveness. They use research and data to provide recommendations to governments, NGOs, or think tanks.
• Sustainability specialist: These professionals help businesses and institutions implement sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and carbon accounting. Their work supports corporate social responsibility and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting.
• Research scientist or academic: Many graduates continue into research or teaching roles, either in universities or research institutions. They advance scientific knowledge while training the next generation of environmental professionals.

How much can you earn in the top industries that hire environmental scientists?

Environmental scientists work across a variety of industries, each offering different levels of compensation depending on responsibilities, expertise, and the sector’s demand for environmental expertise. Below are the top industries employing environmental scientists, along with their average annual earnings.

• Federal government, excluding postal service ($113,980): Environmental scientists in the federal government often oversee nationwide environmental programs, enforce regulations, and conduct large-scale research projects. They play a critical role in shaping and implementing national environmental policy.
• Engineering services ($77,960): Professionals in engineering services design and implement systems to manage water, air, and waste, as well as mitigate pollution. Many who want to enter this field quickly explore the fastest online environmental engineering degree, which provides a direct path into applied engineering roles. They often work for private consulting firms that serve industries, municipalities, and construction projects.
• Management, scientific, and technical consulting services ($77,420): In consulting roles, environmental scientists advise organizations on compliance, sustainability strategies, and risk management. They frequently work with businesses seeking solutions to reduce environmental impact while meeting regulatory requirements. For context, creative fields such as the arts can offer comparable salary potential; for example, the median MFA degree salary demonstrates that specialized graduate degrees can yield competitive earnings when paired with industry demand.
• Local government, excluding education and hospitals ($77,390): Environmental scientists in local government focus on community-level issues such as land use planning, public health protection, and natural resource management. They ensure that development projects comply with environmental regulations.
• State government, excluding education and hospitals ($76,840): At the state level, environmental scientists help enforce environmental laws, manage state parks and resources, and monitor environmental quality. Their work often involves balancing environmental protection with economic and community development.

While salaries for environmental scientists vary depending on the industry, it’s clear that government positions offer the highest earning potential. Meanwhile, consulting, engineering, and local or state government roles provide stable opportunities for those looking to combine scientific expertise with real-world impact. The chart below highlights these differences at a glance, making it easy to compare salary ranges across the top industries that employ environmental scientists.

What graduate degrees pair well with an environmental science background?

Many environmental science graduates choose to continue their education in order to specialize, expand career options, or qualify for leadership roles. Graduate programs allow students to combine their environmental foundation with advanced training in science, policy, or management, leading to diverse and rewarding career paths.

• Master’s in Environmental Science: This degree deepens technical expertise in areas such as ecology, climate science, or pollution control. It often includes research opportunities and prepares graduates for higher-level scientific roles.
• Master of Public Health (MPH): An MPH allows environmental science majors to focus on environmental health, epidemiology, and the connections between ecosystems and human well-being. Graduates often work in public health departments or international health organizations.
• Master of Environmental Management (MEM): The MEM emphasizes leadership, management, and applied problem-solving in sustainability. It prepares graduates for careers in consulting, corporate sustainability, and environmental policy.
• Master of Urban and Regional Planning: This degree equips students to address land use, transportation, and sustainable city planning. It is particularly valuable for those interested in urban resilience and climate adaptation.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Science or Ecology: A PhD emphasizes advanced research and academic scholarship. Graduates typically pursue university teaching positions, government research roles, or leadership in NGOs.
• MBA with a Sustainability Concentration: An MBA equips students with business and leadership skills, while the sustainability focus bridges science with corporate strategy. This pathway is ideal for those aiming to lead corporate ESG and green innovation initiatives.

Additionally, a fast track online geography degree can be an efficient way to build advanced skills in mapping and data visualization, which are highly sought after in urban planning, conservation, and resource management.

This combination of environmental science and geography equips graduates to analyze complex environmental problems through both ecological and spatial perspectives, opening doors to government, nonprofit, and private sector careers.

How do undergraduate research and internships prepare you for grad school?

Undergraduate research and internships give environmental science students the chance to apply what they learn in class to real-world problems. These experiences not only build technical and professional skills but also make graduate school applications stronger by demonstrating initiative, competence, and readiness for advanced study.

• Hands-on research experience: Research projects allow students to collect data, test hypotheses, and analyze results. This direct practice with the scientific method shows graduate programs that applicants can succeed in academic research.
• Development of technical skills: Students gain proficiency with laboratory equipment, field instruments, and analytical software. These technical skills are essential for graduate-level coursework and independent research.
• Professional networking: Working with professors, graduate students, and industry partners helps students build connections. These networks can lead to strong letters of recommendation and future collaborations.
• Presentation and communication practice: Students often present findings at conferences or in written reports. These experiences improve scientific communication skills, which are critical for success in graduate school.
• Exposure to specialized fields: Research and internships let students explore areas such as ecology, climate science, or GIS. This exposure helps them choose the right graduate specialization.
• Time management and project organization: Balancing research with coursework teaches students how to manage deadlines and responsibilities. Graduate programs value applicants who demonstrate independence and reliability.
• Understanding graduate-level expectations: By working alongside graduate students and faculty, undergraduates learn what advanced study entails. This insight reduces uncertainty and builds confidence when applying to grad school.

These opportunities showcase a student’s ability to conduct experiments, analyze data, and communicate results, skills that admissions committees value highly. For students looking to accelerate their academic journey, combining hands-on experience with the shortest online degree in environmental science can provide both speed and substance, making them competitive candidates for advanced study.

What is the average salary for environmental science graduates?

The average salary for environmental science graduates varies depending on industry, location, and level of experience, but overall, the field offers solid earning potential. 

Interestingly, graduates who combine their environmental expertise with faith-based leadership training may also explore Christian leadership careers, applying scientific knowledge to manage faith-based organizations, sustainability ministries, or community development programs. This unique intersection of skills allows individuals to lead initiatives that promote stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical environmental practices within church or nonprofit contexts.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists was $80,060 in May 2024. The median represents the midpoint of earnings, meaning half of professionals in the field made more than this amount, while the other half earned less.

Salary ranges within the field highlight the diverse opportunities available. The lowest 10 percent of environmental scientists earned less than $50,130, often representing entry-level roles or positions in lower-paying regions.

On the other hand, the highest 10 percent earned more than $134,830, usually tied to senior positions, leadership roles, or employment in high-demand industries such as the federal government or consulting. This wide range underscores how career progression, specialization, and sector choice can significantly influence earning potential for environmental science graduates.

What are alternative career options outside of traditional environmental science roles?

Not all environmental science majors follow the standard path of working in research, government, or conservation. The degree’s mix of scientific knowledge, data analysis, and problem-solving skills also prepares graduates for alternative careers in fields that value analytical thinking and environmental awareness.

• Science communication and journalism: Graduates can work as writers, reporters, or multimedia specialists, translating complex environmental topics for the public. This path allows them to combine communication skills with their scientific background.
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) roles: Many companies hire professionals to design and oversee CSR initiatives. Environmental science graduates bring credibility and expertise to sustainability projects that enhance a company’s reputation.
• Green business and entrepreneurship: Graduates can launch businesses focused on eco-friendly products or sustainable services. Their scientific training helps ensure products are both environmentally sound and marketable.
• Environmental education and outreach: Beyond formal teaching, graduates can work in museums, aquariums, and non-profits to design educational programs. These roles focus on raising public awareness and inspiring community action.
• Data science and analytics: Students with strong quantitative skills may transition into data-focused careers. Their background in environmental datasets translates well to big data, geospatial analysis, and predictive modeling.
• Public policy and advocacy: Some graduates move into political or advocacy roles, shaping legislation or working with NGOs. Their scientific knowledge strengthens policy debates and helps bridge the gap between science and decision-making.

Many environmental science graduates choose to branch out into fields beyond traditional research or conservation roles, leveraging their technical and analytical strengths in new ways. One growing option is education, where professionals can combine their scientific expertise with teaching or training.

Programs in accelerated online STEM education allow graduates to quickly gain the credentials needed to teach science or develop curriculum, opening doors in schools, museums, and community outreach organizations.

What is the future job outlook for environmental science majors?

The future job outlook for environmental science majors is positive, reflecting society’s increasing focus on sustainability, climate change, and resource management. In fact, the employment for environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Interestingly, students exploring interdisciplinary paths may wonder what can you do with an anthropology degree. Anthropology graduates often develop skills in cultural analysis, research, and fieldwork, which can complement environmental science by informing community-based conservation projects, policy development, or sustainability initiatives that account for human behavior and societal impact.

In numbers, jobs are expected to rise from 84,600 in 2023 to about 90,700 in 2033, representing an increase of 6,100 positions. This growth is fueled by the need for scientific expertise in monitoring environmental conditions, enforcing regulations, and developing solutions to reduce environmental impact.

For environmental science majors, this means steady demand across industries such as government, consulting, energy, and conservation. The ongoing emphasis on tackling climate change, protecting natural resources, and promoting corporate sustainability ensures that graduates will continue to find meaningful career opportunities.

The chart below shows this projected change in employment, highlighting how the field is expected to expand over the next decade.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their environmental science degrees:

Other things you should know about getting an environmental science degree

Do most environmental science programs include fieldwork or lab research?

Yes, most environmental science programs incorporate both fieldwork and lab research as core components of the curriculum. Students often spend time outdoors collecting soil, water, or air samples, which are later analyzed in university labs. This hands-on experience ensures graduates can apply classroom knowledge to real-world environmental problems.

Field courses, capstone projects, and research opportunities also help students build technical skills that are highly valued by employers and graduate programs.

Should you choose a generalist vs. a specialized environmental science degree?

Choosing between a generalist and a specialized environmental science degree depends on your career goals. A generalist program provides a broad foundation in ecology, chemistry, geology, and policy, which is ideal for students who want flexibility or are undecided about their focus.

A specialized program, such as one in climate science, hydrology, or GIS, offers deeper expertise in a particular field. Specialized tracks may be more attractive to employers in niche industries, but could limit broader career options early on.

Are online environmental science programs respected by employers?

Online environmental science programs can be respected by employers as long as they come from accredited institutions. Many universities now offer hybrid or fully online formats that still include lab simulations, virtual fieldwork, or local internship requirements.

Employers are more concerned with the skills and experiences a graduate brings than whether the degree was earned online or in person. To maximize credibility, students should seek programs that emphasize applied learning and professional development opportunities.

Is an environmental science degree useful internationally?

An environmental science degree is highly relevant internationally because environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution cross national borders. Graduates may find opportunities with NGOs, international development agencies, or global corporations working on sustainability initiatives.

Skills like GIS, environmental monitoring, and policy analysis are transferable worldwide. However, specific roles may require knowledge of regional laws, languages, or certifications to be competitive in different countries.