Environmental Science major
Environmental Science: courses, careers, and where to study
Environmental Science combines biology, chemistry, geology, and policy to address climate, conservation, water, and pollution challenges.
An Environmental Science major draws on biology, chemistry, geology, atmospheric science, and policy. Programs typically require a strong natural-science core plus environmental-specific coursework in ecology, climate science, hydrology, environmental chemistry, GIS, and environmental policy. Many programs include a field-experience component (forest, wetland, marine, or urban field stations).
Graduates work in environmental consulting, federal and state agencies (EPA, USGS, NOAA, state DEPs), nonprofits, sustainability roles in industry, and graduate research. The major pairs well with a minor in GIS, Public Policy, or Economics.
What you'll study
- Ecology and biodiversity
- Environmental chemistry
- Climate science and atmospheric science
- Hydrology and water resources
- Geology and earth systems
- GIS and remote sensing
- Environmental policy and law
- Senior research project
Typical careers
- Environmental Consultant
- GIS Analyst
- Sustainability Specialist
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- Conservation Scientist
- Wildlife Biologist
Starting salary range: $48,000–$72,000 starting (BLS environmental scientist median $80,060)
Find a Environmental Science program
CampusPin lists U.S. universities and community colleges that offer Environmental Science programs. Filter by state, tuition, school size, acceptance rate, and campus setting — no account required.
Environmental Science by state
- Environmental Science in California
- Environmental Science in Florida
- Environmental Science in Georgia
- Environmental Science in Illinois
- Environmental Science in Maryland
- Environmental Science in Massachusetts
- Environmental Science in New York
- Environmental Science in North Carolina
- Environmental Science in Pennsylvania
- Environmental Science in Texas
Related majors
Biology
Biology is the foundational pre-health major — covering molecular, cellular, organismal, and ecological levels of living systems.
Chemistry
Chemistry studies matter and its transformations — preparing graduates for pharmaceutical, materials, energy, environmental, and biotech careers, plus medical and graduate school.