Are you passionate about the environment and curious about how to make a positive impact on our planet? If so, studying environmental science might be the perfect path for you. Environmental science is a diverse field that offers a wide range of career opportunities, and with the convenience of online learning, you can acquire the knowledge and skills needed to make a difference in the world. Start a search today to find the best environmental science courses — some of them might even be free!
What Is Environmental Science?
Environmental science is the study of the environment, its processes, and the interactions between human beings and the natural world. It’s a multidisciplinary field that draws from various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. Environmental scientists work to understand and address pressing environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, habitat loss, and resource management.
By studying environmental science online, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of these issues and develop the skills needed to propose sustainable solutions. Whether you’re interested in conserving ecosystems, managing natural resources, or advocating for environmental policies, an environmental science course can provide you with the knowledge and tools to make a positive impact on the planet.
Career Opportunities
Environmental science is an area of interest for many industries and governmental organizations. Pursuing an environmental science degree gives you several options for jobs, including interesting careers in microbiology, environmental engineering, and geology. If you have an environmental science degree, you may be wondering how best to use it.
Environmental Specialist
Average salary: $19.89 per hour
Environmental specialists are professionals responsible for overseeing the impact of the environment on a group of people. They uncover and propose solutions for environmental duties. These scientists often work in chemical or power plants. Their responsibilities may even include examining samples of food, soil, air, and water so they can guide prevention programs and minimize environmental issues.
Marine Biologist
Average salary: $65,841 per year
Marine biologists are scientists focused on aquatic life. They study life in saltwater and wetlands, observing and collecting data. Their daily tasks include performing experiments to study marine animals and marine life. They may also care for sick or injured creatures and monitor the everyday events of marine life. Some marine biologists choose a specialization like invertebrate zoology.
Wildlife Biologist
Average salary: $77,152 per year
The responsibilities of wildlife biologists vary depending on the habitat in which they work. They primarily study animals, sometimes the surrounding fauna and its effect on the animals. The daily responsibilities of a wildlife biologist are to study animal characteristics, classify them, and identify new species. Sometimes they may need to estimate plant and animal populations, assess genetic data taken from animals, or care for wildlife environments.
Environmental Consultant
Average salary: $66,095 per year
Environmental consultants provide key insight and analysis of environmental concerns. They work within public and private industries to help with property acquisition, construction, development, infrastructure, health compliance, safety regulations, and public works. They may also help in projects related to sustainability and energy efficiency. Many consultants operate as generalists, but some specialize in certain environmental projects like waste management.
These are just a few examples of the exciting career opportunities available in the field of environmental science. There are countless other amazing opportunities worth exploring online, depending on your interests and specialization.
Getting Your Degree: Best Environmental Science Schools
When it comes to pursuing a degree in environmental science, choosing the right school is crucial. Here are a few of the best schools known for their exceptional environmental science programs:
- Stanford University: Stanford offers a comprehensive environmental science program with a focus on sustainability and conservation. Their faculty includes renowned experts in the field, and the university provides access to cutting-edge research facilities.
- University of California, Berkeley: UC Berkeley boasts a top-ranked environmental science program that emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration. Students have the opportunity to engage in fieldwork and research projects that address real-world environmental challenges.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT’s environmental science program combines scientific rigor with practical problem-solving. They offer a wide range of courses and research opportunities in areas like climate science, environmental policy, and sustainable technology.
Free Learning Opportunities
While many environmental science occupations require a degree, you can kickstart your journey by exploring free introductory courses online. These courses can provide you with a solid foundation and help you decide if environmental science is the right path for you. Here are some platforms that offer free or affordable courses:
- Coursera: Coursera offers a variety of environmental science courses from top universities and institutions. Some of these courses are free to audit, allowing you to access course materials and learn at your own pace.
- Udemy: Udemy features a range of environmental science courses, including both free and paid options. These courses cover topics such as climate change, conservation, and environmental policy.
- edX: edX provides access to high-quality environmental science courses from universities like Harvard and MIT. You can enroll in many of these courses for free, with the option to receive a verified certificate for a fee.
Start Your Search Today
Embarking on a journey in environmental science can be both rewarding and impactful. By studying environmental science online, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to address pressing environmental issues and contribute to a more sustainable future.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your search today to find the best environmental science courses and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in environmental science. Your passion for the environment can drive positive change in the world.