What You Need to Know About Environmental Engineering Degree
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Today, society is becoming more and more concerned about the potential long and short term effects that humans have on the global ecosystem. Obtaining an environmental engineering degree will prepare you to solve problems related to pollution, recycling, health, natural resources and energy efficiency.
Environmental engineering major is usually a four-year (or less, if you decide to increase your workload) bachelor program. Generally, students majoring in engineering programs have strong mathematical and scientific skills.
Sample coursework at an accredited college or university will likely include classes such as
engineering fundamentals, water systems, waste water systems, soil refinement and the mechanics of solids. Coursework in biology and chemistry can also be helpful while studying this major.
You may also choose to study a similar field during your college experience. Bachelor degrees in civil, chemical and mechanical engineering are often acceptable for environmental related positions. Sometimes a college may not offer an entire major curriculum, but they may offer a focus in environmental studies as part of a civil engineering degree.
Capstone courses are usually offered to assist students in applying skills they’ve learned throughout their various courses. These courses are usually offered as a design project which allows for real world experience before graduation.
Paid and unpaid internships as well as co-op positions should be explored while earning your degree. These circumstance will give you practical experience in the sector, making you more attractive to prospective employers upon graduation.
The Life Ahead: Challenges & Fulfillment
Engineers are usually problem solvers and troubleshooters. Life isn’t much different as compared to other engineers.
As you near graduation, you’ll probably apply for jobs with titles like “applied science intern” and “field engineer.” Your work will be done in your office and in the field.
From a career perspective, you could end-up working for a federal, state or local government. You might also work for private industrial firms. It is also possible that running a freelance consultancy is a good fit for your lifestyle. International project is indeed a possibility, but always be sure to do your research so you aren’t tricked by internet fraud much like the Malaysia scams and other employment fraud that exists over the internet.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to a report published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, entry-level environmental professionals with a bachelor’s credential can expect to earn an average annual income of $55,309.
Once you gain experience in the field, you can expect a median salary of $78,740 per year or $37.86 per hour, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Studying this subject would be a solid decision for your future. The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that this particular job market is set to increase by 22% by 2020. This growth is higher than the national average and is attributed to the need for water and energy efficiency.
Continuing Education
Higher education (post-graduate) is also offered for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. Depending on your needs, there are many programs to choose from to pursue a Master of Science or Ph.D.
Read More:- PTA Certificate Programs
How to Earn Graduation?
Environmental engineering major is usually a four-year (or less, if you decide to increase your workload) bachelor program. Generally, students majoring in engineering programs have strong mathematical and scientific skills.
Sample coursework at an accredited college or university will likely include classes such as
engineering fundamentals, water systems, waste water systems, soil refinement and the mechanics of solids. Coursework in biology and chemistry can also be helpful while studying this major.
You may also choose to study a similar field during your college experience. Bachelor degrees in civil, chemical and mechanical engineering are often acceptable for environmental related positions. Sometimes a college may not offer an entire major curriculum, but they may offer a focus in environmental studies as part of a civil engineering degree.
Capstone courses are usually offered to assist students in applying skills they’ve learned throughout their various courses. These courses are usually offered as a design project which allows for real world experience before graduation.
Paid and unpaid internships as well as co-op positions should be explored while earning your degree. These circumstance will give you practical experience in the sector, making you more attractive to prospective employers upon graduation.
The Life Ahead: Challenges & Fulfillment
Engineers are usually problem solvers and troubleshooters. Life isn’t much different as compared to other engineers.
As you near graduation, you’ll probably apply for jobs with titles like “applied science intern” and “field engineer.” Your work will be done in your office and in the field.
From a career perspective, you could end-up working for a federal, state or local government. You might also work for private industrial firms. It is also possible that running a freelance consultancy is a good fit for your lifestyle. International project is indeed a possibility, but always be sure to do your research so you aren’t tricked by internet fraud much like the Malaysia scams and other employment fraud that exists over the internet.
Salary and Job Outlook
According to a report published by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, entry-level environmental professionals with a bachelor’s credential can expect to earn an average annual income of $55,309.
Once you gain experience in the field, you can expect a median salary of $78,740 per year or $37.86 per hour, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Studying this subject would be a solid decision for your future. The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that this particular job market is set to increase by 22% by 2020. This growth is higher than the national average and is attributed to the need for water and energy efficiency.
Continuing Education
Higher education (post-graduate) is also offered for students who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. Depending on your needs, there are many programs to choose from to pursue a Master of Science or Ph.D.
Name | Address | Type |
---|---|---|
California State University-Fuller | 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831-3599 | 4-year, Public |
Columbia University in the City of New York | West 116 St and Broadway, New York, New York 10027 | 4-year, Private not-for-profit |
Johns Hopkins University | 3400 N Charles St, Mason Hall, Baltimore, Maryland 21218-2688 | 4-year, Private not-for-profit |
Missouri University of Science and Technology | 1870 Miner Circle, Rolla, Missouri 65409 | 4-year, Public |
North Carolina State University at Raleigh | 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7001 | 4-year, Public |
Read More:- PTA Certificate Programs

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