Department of Environmental Science

Jumpstart your career in environmental science

In the Department of Environmental Science, our professors mentor their students to develop the skills to become the next generation of scientists, educators, informed citizens, and real-world problem solvers. Here are some key national statistics for environmental science careers from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and PayScale.

Starting Salary
$38,782-$75,457

Average Starting Salaries in Environmental Science (NACE)

Noteworthy Environmental Science Jobs and Mid-Career Salaries (PayScale)

Environmental Scientist $59,400 Environmental Geologist $59,400 Envir. Protection Engineer $81,200 Forester $56,200
Six months out of graduation
86%

Alumni in science and health employed or in graduate school within 6 months after graduation

Get Prepared to Succeed

The Environmental Science Department creates inclusive learning communities that focus on developing scholarship and research about the earth, natural environment, and the interaction between human and natural systems. We offer three unique programs of study—the BS in environmental science, the environmental science minor, BS in environmental sustainability, and the BA in earth science.

What You'll Learn

In our environmental science programs, students learn in-demand skills that employers have identified as critical for job candidates, including:

  • Critical thinking skills and fundamental science knowledge to find solutions to environmental problems.
  • Applying knowledge, research skills, laboratory methods, and field techniques to environmental studies and related fields.
  • Ability to handle field data using digital tools, among others.

Key Skills for
Careers in
Environmental Science

as indicated by Employers
and Alumni on LinkedIn

Analytical Skills

Critical Thinking

Environmental Awareness

Project Management

Research

Scientific Computing

Strategic Planning

*LinkedIn Workplace
Learning Report 2021