Education in the Field of Environment Science. Where it is Today vs. Where it Was

There was once a time when students interested in pursuing higher education in environmental studies had a limited number of programs to choose from. However, this is no longer an issue, as the number of student courses and available positions related to environmental sciences is very much on the rise.

Program titles vary by educational institution, but typically fall under five main titles ─ environmental science, environmental studies, environmental policy and planning, environmental management and risk analysis and natural resources management.

Survey Reveals Increase in Environmental Sciences Programs

According to a study conducted by the Hanover Research Council, surveying responses from 260 program administrators, approximately 66 percent of environmental sciences programs across the country were created after 1990. In fact, a full 25 percent were established after 2001.

Students are responding to the increase in the number of available environmental sciences programs by enrolling in record numbers. An overwhelming 58 percent of programs experienced growth from 2003 to 2008 ─ with 29 percent indicating steady enrollment during this time period, according to the survey.

BLS Predicts Growth for Environmental Sciences Positions

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 15 percent from 2012 to 2022 ─ faster than the average of 11 percent for all occupations.

An increased public interest in combating environmental hazards and the strain on the environment caused by the growing population is expected to fuel job growth. Most new opportunities are expected to be with private consulting firms, government agencies, publicly funded universities, hospitals and national research facilities.

Environmental science professionals work to find innovative ways to protect the earth by predicting natural disasters, offering advice on environmental issues, conducting assessments and uncovering and preserving natural resources. Their work is key to the future health of our planet.

At Eco-Rental Solutions, we’re always looking for dedicated recent graduates to join our growing team in our six national offices ─ located in Rochester, NY; Elmsford, NY; St. Louis, MO; San Diego, CA; Tustin, CA; and Oakland, CA. We have more than 100 combined years of experience working in the rental, sales and service of test instrumentation. Contact us today to learn more!