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.
Online Environmental Science Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $8,706 | 14.32% | 2 years | $39,700 | $57,300 | Not reported |
| 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 Environmental Science Find Accredited Degrees
Online Environmental Science Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Climate Change Analyst | $72,050 | 11% | 94600 |
| Environmental Health Specialist | $66,250 | 9% | 88740 |
| Environmental Chemist | $63,570 | 10% | 94600 |
| Environmental Engineer | $83,360 | 12% | 55100 |
| Wildlife Biologist | $58,270 | 4% | 21300 |
Online Environmental Science Professional Requirements
Certified Environmental Professional
This certification is awarded to senior managers and other professionals in the field who demonstrate high standards of professional conduct. Professionals must have more than 10 years of experience to qualify for this certification. The candidate must take an exam or write an essay on one of six functional areas, must submit references, and is evaluated by a review board.
Certified Environmental Scientist
This credential establishes a professional's understanding of environmental science, including the areas of chemistry, physics, earth science, and environmental health. An exam is necessary as is a bachelor's degree in an environmentally related discipline. However, work experience may be substituted for each year of an academic degree program.
Board Certified Environmental Scientist
This credential is aimed towards professionals who have earned a bachelor's degree in environmental science, or a related science degree. The candidate must be professionally engaged in the field of environmental science on a full-time basis. The candidate must take a combination of oral and written examinations, and an assessment of their work experience and credentials. Note that an exam waiver is available for those with a BA and 16 years of work experience in environmental science.