Online Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Students working towards a bachelor's degree in environmental science, typically offered as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in the discipline, apply concepts from such subjects as biology and chemistry to environment-focused coursework. Schools often allow students to concentrate their degree in a subset of environmental science. Specializations vary by school, but programs may have options such as biology, chemistry, or hydrology. Schools may also have a bachelor's degree program in environmental policy for those interested in studying environmental regulations and policies.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science: Coursework and Overview

Over a typical course of four years, students take a number of general science and environment-specific coursework in addition to classes in related subjects. Curriculum varies by school and by specialization, but below are some common program elements, with descriptions of likely topics:

Environmental Science Degree Courses

• Introduction to Environmental Science: Students gain an overview of environmental science topics and issues, such as energy sources and air and water pollution. Courses may apply principles from other sciences, including biology and chemistry.
• Ecology: Courses provide an introduction to ecological principles, including species interaction, ecological community structure, and plant and animal interactions with each other and with the environment.
• Environmental Toxicology: Students explore the effects of chemicals on living organisms and the environment. Specific topics may include hazardous substances and pesticides.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Introductory courses describe and define GIS and also examine related concepts and applications. For example, students may analyze spatial data via GIS tools.
• Environmental Law: Courses discuss major federal and sometimes state environmental regulations and acts, such as the Clean Water Act and the National Environmental Policy Act.

Courses Related to Environmental Science

• Statistics: Students calculate and analyze various types of statistical data, including confidence intervals, probability, and correlation. This subject is often required for a bachelor's in environmental science programs.
• General Biology: Courses examine fundamental components of biology, commonly including cell structure and function, metabolism, and energy.
• General Chemistry: Courses explore major concepts in chemistry, including nomenclature, atomic structure, and stoichiometry. A lab component of the course is typically required.

Potential Careers for Individuals with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Courses and lab work in environmental science programs help students develop skills that may be applicable to a variety of careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), a bachelor's degree is often required for entry-level environmental scientist positions.

Some careers that students can pursue after earning their degree are discussed below:

• Environmental protection specialists track the impact of human activity on the environment and investigate sources of pollution. They may also create plans to control, solve, or prevent environmental issues. These specialists may work for consulting firms to make sure companies follow environmental regulations. Aspiring environmental protection specialists may learn about such regulations through an environmental law course. Introductory courses in environmental science could also benefit students pursuing this career, as these classes may examine pollution and human interactions with the environment.
• Environmental health specialists examine how environmental factors affect human health. For example, they may explore health risks associated with food safety and unsafe drinking water. Students interested in this career can find out about substances harmful to the environment and human health through an environmental toxicology class. According to bls.gov, entry-level positions for environmental specialists and scientists typically require a bachelor's degree in environmental science or another natural science.
• Environmental chemists analyze chemicals' effects on ecosystems, including topics such as waste management, the effect of acids on plants and humans, and the remediation of contaminated water and soil. An environmental toxicology course may introduce students to various hazardous substances that pose a concern in this field. Bls.gov states that students pursuing an environmental scientist or specialist career such as this one often take courses in chemistry, biology, and hydrology.
• Environmental science or protection technicians inspect public places, businesses, and other establishments for environmental, safety, and health hazards and investigate contamination and pollution sources. Other common responsibilities include gathering air and water samples for laboratory analysis, testing for levels of pollutants in samples, and preparing charts and reports regarding test results. Although technician positions may not require a bachelor's degree, bls.gov mentions that coursework in biology, geology, chemistry, and statistics can benefit students pursuing this career.

After earning their bachelor's degree, graduates may continue their environmental science studies with a master's degree program. As bls.gov states, environmental scientists and specialists may even need a master's degree to advance in their career. Students interested in furthering their education in environmental science should contact an admissions counselor to assess their qualifications.

Additional information on earning a bachelor's in environmental science degree can be found in the Guide to College Majors in Environmental Science.

Additional Resources for Individuals with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science:
Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2012

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