Career Prospects:
Environmental Sciences is the interdisciplinary study of natural processes and human impacts in the atmosphere, aquatic systems, and soils. The course of study is built on a foundation of biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics. Environmental science is the branch of biology concerned with the relations between organisms and their environment.
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary academic field that integrates physical and biological sciences, (including but not limited to Ecology, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Soil Science, Geology, Atmospheric Science and Geography) to the study of the environment, and the solution of environmental problems.
Environment has been the greatest source of life for the living beings on earth. Be it food, shelter, clothes, water, sunlight, air, or any other substance for supporting life, everything is provided to us by the environment. The rapid growth in urbanization and industrialization, however, has badly disturbed and destroyed the balance of our environment, as a result of which there has been unsustainable growth and development. In order to protect our environment, research institutes are in the constant process of developing Eco-friendly methods or technologies. An environmental sciences degree can prepare students for a wide range of careers in industry, government, consulting, and education.
Undergraduate and Post-graduate courses in environmental science are offered by several institutes across the country. Career in Environmental Science starts with a B.Sc/B.E degree in this subject. The minimum qualification for B.Sc. (Environmental Science) is 10+2 pass with Science subjects. The period of this course is three years.
For M.Sc. in Environmental Science which is of two year duration, B.Sc. Environmental Science or in any science subject is must. The two year M.Tech. in Environmental Science course is also offered by some technical institutes for which B.E./ B.Tech. students are eligible. There are also short term PG Diploma courses in Environment Management and Environmental Sciences. At the higher level there are doctoral and post-doctoral courses like M.Phil. and Ph.D. courses in Environmental Science.
Environmental Science as a career offers immense job opportunities. The word ‘Environmental Science’ incorporates within it several activities for the protection of the environment. There has been awareness about environment factors which has lead to increase in job opportunities. The options available can vary from options as Professors, environmental biologists, environmental modelers, environmental engineers and environmental journalists.
A Master or Doctor degree holder in Environmental Science can get a good position according to their knowledge and experience. Environmental science graduates have multiple career options. They can work with various government departments and agencies like Forest and Environment, Pollution Control Boards, Urban planning, Industries, Water resources and Agriculture. NGOs working for environmental protection are a good option for being a environmental scientist. Private industries and firms also take in a large chunk of environmental scientists to suggest proper methods and process.
Environmental scientists also can be involved in research activities in public and private sector institutions. Environmental scientists also can seek jobs in media sector as environment journalists. There is the need for them in following departments/ organizations -
Note: This information is being summarised from the information provided by institutes offering those courses.
