Your Guide to the Best Environmental Science Colleges

Science has helped humanity progress through various facets and phenomena. For example, global warming must be studied to help live in harmony with planet Earth. Therefore, professionals who understand the environment can form a grand alliance with the globe's ecology.

This article will introduce you to the best colleges in the United States for environmental science so that you can better understand what environmental scientists do. And, who knows, you may even choose to pursue one of these colleges!

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What Is Environmental Science?

Environmental studies combine earth sciences fields of study, such as biology, chemistry, physics, and more, to equip humanity with a solid knowledge base that can implement our current environmental policy to protect against climate change. Environmental scientists analyze problems like climate change and pollution to dive deep into social and environmental interactions.

Consequently, applying for the best environmental science programs can hone your skills to become a professional who can make a difference in the field of environmental studies and make major discoveries that will help the planet. Students interested in the field of environmental science will gain knowledge throughout their undergraduate degree to research and craft solutions to some of the problems the planet currently faces.

Don't let finances keep you from pursuing your passion for environmental change! Explore the wide range of scholarships by major available on Bold.org.

Discovering Top Universities for Environmental Sciences

Do you want to be part of a legacy of colleges pioneering innovation and research in environmental studies? I've made a list of Top Universities where you can get an environmental science degree that can open doors to a bright professional future. Let's take a look!

Stanford University

Stanford, a private institution, is one of the top universities for students aspiring to pursue a career in defending the planet. The variety of programs in the School of Sustainability allows students to dive deep into geophysics and civil and environmental engineering to study the earth and design innovative solutions for a more sustainable society by combining science with political and social considerations so that you can work on issues like climate change, resource management, and ocean health.

University of California Berkeley

Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, UC Berkeley is a public institution that holds the Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, serving as a gateway to research, teaching, and public outreach. The university adopted the principle of using knowledge for the public good, and students have a variety of education opportunities from Undergraduate to Graduate programs.

Harvard University

Harvard University has an Environmental Science and Engineering program that equips students with a strong foundation in physics, chemistry, engineering, ecology, and mathematical modeling, by which students will delve into advanced topics and be placed on hands-on projects. The program also offers flexibility for students to explore other areas of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

Yale University

Yale School of Environment (YSE) provides students with hands-on experience at the Yale-Myers Forest and summer field programs. YSE has a diverse and inclusive community with a strong community that connects with alumni, providing network and mentorship. After graduation, many students work for the government, NGOs, businesses, and academia.

University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The historical Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is more than 125 years old and is the only university in Minnesota that is among the best environmental science colleges. Their environmental science major tackles environmental challenges through research and community service. Its research focuses on solid-earth and earth surface dynamics, conducting investigations on chemical and physical transformations.

University of Washington Seattle

The University of Washington College of the Environment's innovative approach leads to discoveries that benefit society and the planet. Their environmental science major studies, from the polar regions to water management, address numerous environmental challenges.

University of Florida

The University of Florida, the only university in Florida among the best colleges of environmental science, offers students the opportunity to graduate with a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. The difference is that students who pursue a Bachelor of Science will focus on natural sciences. In contrast, the Bachelor of Arts has an approach similar to that of a private liberal arts institution because students study science but also have to understand economics, policy, and management.

University of California Davis

The Bachelor of Science and Management at UC Davis has major requirements, such as courses in biology, chemistry, physics, economics, and calculus. This is considered the lower division. After students have built a strong foundation in their environmental science major, they start taking classes in the upper division, which consists of physical, biological, and social sciences courses.

Cornell University

Cornell's Environment & Sustainability program is offered in the College of Arts and Science, a private liberal arts college, and the College of Agriculture & Life Sciences. Students have a core foundation and can choose six concentrations to hone their interests.

Careers in Environmental Sciences

An environmental science degree can open doors to many career possibilities. This is why I researched the options that lie ahead of your environmental science degree.

Environmental Scientists

Environmental scientists earn a median annual salary of $76,480. They focus on analyzing data, identifying threats, and recommending solutions, and industries like healthcare and government agencies are vital employers. The education required is at least a bachelor's degree, but a Master's degree will allow you to exert more advanced roles.

Postsecondary Environmental Science Teacher

Teachers are responsible for sharing their knowledge to better prepare their students for roles that will make a difference in society. The fields of environmental sciences also want leaders who will positively impact their students' values. A Postsecondary Environmental Science Teacher earns a median annual salary of $83,040.

Zoologist or Wildlife Biologist

Would you like to help endangered species? A career as a Zoologist or Wildlife Biologist can be the right path for you. You will analyze data, track animals, and see how humans affect habitat. You will earn a median annual salary of $67,430.

Geoscientist

Have you ever considered becoming an expert in our home? Yes, you can if you decide to become a Geoscientist. Geoscientists analyze Earth's structures, resources, and processes. Some of the areas of specialization are oceanography, seismology, and paleontology. A Geoscientist can earn a median annual salary of $87,480.

Hydrologist

A hydrologist is responsible for studying water movement, quality, and availability. They understand how rain impacts the river and ensures the water stays healthy. The median annual salary of a Hydrologist is $85,990, and a bachelor's degree can open doors, but a master's is preferred.

Conservation Scientist

Earn a median salary of $64,460 and recommend sustainable practices to landowners and the government. Some specializations can be in soil, water, or land management. A bachelor's degree can open your doors to a career as a Conservation Scientist.

Environmental Engineering

Are you interested in helping the environment but have always dreamed of becoming an engineer? Environmental Engineering may be a great career for you. You will combine science and engineering by studying issues like pollution, writing reports, and ensuring projects follow regulations. The median salary of a professional with at least a Bachelor's degree is $96,530.

Environmental Lawyers

Do you want to advocate for environmental sustainability? There is a place for you in Law. Environmental lawyers ensure that society complies with environmental laws. A JD degree is required, and the average salary is $87,300.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Environmental Science Colleges

How can I afford to pursue a degree in the best colleges of environmental science?

Although top universities can be pricey, and not all can afford, don't panic. Many financial aid resources can help you become part of prestigious top colleges. Some of them are:

• Scholarship: There are many ways to find a scholarship. We recommend talking to the universities you intend to apply to understand their financial aid programs so that you are aware of the resources available to you before joining the program.
• Grants: Have you heard of FAFSA? You can apply for grants by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Federal and state grants can be awarded to you based on your financial situation.
• Work-Study: Work-study jobs are jobs in which students can develop professional skills at University. Many of these jobs are in the University, which can make your life easier since you can combine them with your classes' schedule.
• Loans: Student loans can be a great way to pay for your studies. However, we recommend you apply for Federal loans, which are easier to pay than private loans. Federal student loans have lower interest rates than private loans, and you can pay according to your income.

Are test scores required to be admitted to the best environmental science colleges?

While some universities may require candidates to submit their test scores, such as the SAT and ACT, others may not need it. We recommend that students who want an environmental science degree research the institutions they wish to apply to. Websites like the college board allow you to search for colleges based on test score requirements.

What other factors should I consider when deciding the best environmental science colleges for me?

Although universities that are recognized nationwide can be a great option for your future as a student, it would be beneficial to understand other characteristics of each University, such as student body and student-faculty ratio. Therefore, we recommend studying each University's size and considering your learning style since you may be a student who likes smaller classes or prefers big lectures.

Be sure to apply for a scholarship at bold.org that will give you access to the best colleges in the U.S.