What do you learn in a bachelor's in environmental science?

Sustainability is front and center in the modern world, and a bachelor's in environmental science could equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle these pressing issues.

This guide explains how this program can prepare you for an impactful career in conservation, environmental policy, or sustainability.

What to expect from a bachelor's in environmental science program

A bachelor's in environmental science covers interdisciplinary training in the natural sciences, policy, and research as they affect environmental challenges. The program is designed to help you understand and solve environmental issues through technology, science, and policy decisions.

The program's goal is to prepare you to analyze ecological systems, advocate for environmental protections, and develop strong sustainability solutions. You can typically complete a program like this in four years, earning around 120 credits. Tuition and fees vary depending on your school, your residency status, and the program's length.

Some courses focus on environmental chemistry, ecology, or geographic information systems (GIS). To gain hands-on experience, you may need to complete a capstone project or sign up for an internship.

Bachelor's in environmental science curriculum

The curriculum for a bachelor's in environmental science is designed to produce graduates who can address global environmental concerns. Below are three courses often offered in these programs:

• Ecology and biodiversity. This class explores the relationship between organisms and their environment. It studies species diversity and ecosystems, and you'll learn all about data collection and analysis for conservation efforts.
• Environmental chemistry. This course examines the chemical processes that affect water, air, and soil quality. It also studies the effects of pollution and remediation techniques, and you'll develop skills in analytical chemistry, pollution mitigation, and environmental monitoring.
• Geographic information systems (GIS). In this course, students learn about GIS technology, which can help analyze environmental data and create mapping solutions. They will also learn about spatial analysis, environmental interpretations, and data visualization.

Specializations and concentrations

Students often specialize in specific areas of environmental science. For example, you could focus on conservation biology, which focuses on protecting species and ecosystems. Alternatively, you could choose environmental policy and management at the local, national, or global levels. Students who choose energy and sustainability specializations work on green energy solutions and resource management.

Graduation requirements for a bachelor's in environmental science

In addition to earning about 120 credits, you may need to complete a capstone project to graduate with a bachelor's in environmental science. The capstone may consist of field work or a research project that addresses a real-world environmental issue. You may also need to fulfill some internship hours to gain hands-on experience. You can seek internships with government agencies, research institutions, or environmental organizations.