Online Environmental Science Schools & Colleges

Environmental Science Online Colleges

Bachelor degrees in earth science or a related field are usually required for employment, but some employers prefer masters degrees in environmental science programs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In these types of programs, you can learn about biology, chemistry, and geology, as well as ecosystems, pollution abatement, water supply and more, according to the BLS. Online environmental science degrees vary in availability from bachelor's to master's degree level. Some programs that you can find online include the Bachelor's of Arts in Environmental Studies and bachelor's and master's degrees in environmental policy. An advanced degree can help you to understand the economic, legal and social implications behind policy change. Related diploma-based programs available online include those in conversation, wildlife and forestry and even home energy.

When you are employed in environmental science, you'll have a good chance of working for some type of government; 44 percent of those employed in the field work for local, state or federal governments, the BLS indicated. The outlook for job growth in the government is good. In the private sector, individuals with this training can be employed by corporations to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. According to the BLS, the mean earned wages for environmental scientists and specialists were $67,810, while the highest-paid professionals in this field earned more than $100,000 annually. At the federal level, the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S Department of Defense are significant employers. Overall in the U.S., more than 85,000 people were employed as environmental scientists and specialists in 2008 and this is predicted to grow by 28 percent during the 2008-2018 decade. This could result in the creation of more than 23,000 positions during this time. Related occupations that could be of interest include those for environmental health specialists, environmental protection officers and environmental technicians.

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