After the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill and the fire in the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, Ohio, the need for a field of study specifically addressing environmental issues became dire. Environmental science was then introduced to analyze complex environmental problems facing the world and increase public awareness of them.
Today, environmental science encompasses many different fields, such as ecology, zoology, and geology. In this article, we will define what environmental science is, how you can learn environmental science, and the best online courses and training on the topic.
What Is Environmental Science?
Environmental science is a multidisciplinary field that brings together various other fields to study environmental systems. Environmental science includes aspects of physical, biological, and social sciences to help us more learn about the environment and its problems.
Some of the disciplines within environmental science are ecology, marine biology, mineralogy, physics, chemistry, soil science, and oceanography. There are various environmental science careers that you can pursue if you have decided to enter the field.
What Is Environmental Science Used For?
Our environment is where we live and breathe, and keeping it clean and habitable is the responsibility of every human. Raising awareness of environmental problems and possible solutions to those problems is also a key part of environmental science. Below are several of the main applications of environmental science.
- Discover solutions to environmental problems. Environmental science involves developing and implementing responsible habits and ways to reduce environmental impacts using geography, physics, and biology.
- Understand human impacts. Human-generated industrial growth, expansion, and urbanization have led to concerns about population control. The impact on the environment of our population growth can be reduced through decentralization and sustainable solutions.
- Discover sustainable ways of living. Environmental science encourages sustainable ways of living through biological diversity, solar energy, resource management, and chemical cycling.
- Create awareness. If everyone was aware of the environmental impacts of their actions, the world would be much better off. Environmental science is used to educate and create awareness regarding citizens’ responsibilities.
- Conserve biodiversity. Environmental science can be used to increase awareness and knowledge of environmental issues in order to conserve our ecosystems and wildlife, and protect natural resources.
Components of Environmental Science
Environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that strives to create sustainable environments. Below, we have listed some of the fields within environmental science.
Ecology
Ecology is the branch of science that studies organisms, the environment, and the interactions between them.
Ecologists study animals and organisms and learn how they interact with the living and nonliving things around them. For example, they may explore how elephants react when they are around a pond of water.
Geoscience
Geoscience is the study of how the Earth works. It covers the atmosphere, rivers, volcanoes, glaciers, and soil. Topics studied include climate change, volcanic activity, tectonic plates, natural sciences, pollution, and toxic waste.
Examples of geoscience careers include geologist, civil engineer, environmental scientist, paleontologist, seismologist, mine geologist, petroleum geologist, meteorologist, and oceanographer.
Environmental Chemistry
Environmental chemistry is the study of chemicals and how they react to their environment. This includes water pollution, soil contamination, or air pollution. Scientists in this field study how chemicals bond with air, water, and soil.
Environmental chemists apply corrective strategies for waste disposal and soil contamination. They often work for environmental companies or federal government agencies.
Atmospheric science
Atmospheric science is the study of the earth’s atmosphere and its relation to other systems. The study combines physics, biology, chemistry, and astrology to learn how the atmosphere works.
Atmospheric scientists study the chemical aspects of the layers of gas that surround the earth, ocean activities, and weather systems.
Learning Environmental Science
Learning environmental science can be a fun and intriguing learning experience. With increases in global warming, climate change, and other ecological issues, the need for environmental scientists who can present creative solutions is rising.
Becoming an environmental scientist involves enrolling in an undergraduate course at an accredited university. To be a credible scientist, you must also pass certain certification exams.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Environmental science?
Earning an environmental science undergraduate degree can take three to four years, while a master’s degree can take one to two years.
How to Learn Environmental Science: Step-by-Step
Follow this step-by-step guide to begin your journey toward mastering environmental science.
- Enroll in an undergraduate degree program. To qualify for a role in environmental science, you must acquire an undergraduate degree. You can choose from a variety of fields, such as ecology, biology, mineralogy, earth science, or oceanography.
- Find an internship. Getting an internship will provide you with practical experience and the opportunity to apply the knowledge you have gained in your degree. Many students in environmental science will gain internships in the private sector or at government institutes. An internship increases your chances of getting hired later on.
- Obtain a graduate degree. A bachelor’s degree will help you get your foot into the door, but having a graduate degree in environmental science can push your chances of getting hired even higher. Master’s degrees often involve advanced research opportunities that can be very helpful in your career.
- Get certification. Certifications can help establish your expertise in a particular field. Getting a certification such as Board Certified Environmental Scientist (BCES) will speak volumes of your capabilities and expertise in the field of environmental science.
- Find a job. Apply for jobs in the field through online platforms like LinkedIn, Monster, and Indeed. You may also choose to work as a freelancer by utilizing websites like Upwork or Fiverr while looking for full-time roles.
The Best Environmental Science Courses and Training
We have gathered some of the best environmental science courses and training for you to begin your career in the field.
Best Online Environmental Science Classes
Below are some online environmental sciences classes that you can enroll in whenever you feel the need to supplement your other studies in the field.
Coursera
- Course: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialization
- Where: Online
- Time: 6 months
- Prerequisites: Experience with data analysis recommended
- Price: $39 to $79 per month
This course teaches students to use GIS software, which is commonly used in the agriculture and public health industries. The instructors will teach you how to analyze data using cartography techniques, and you will also collaborate with your peers in a classroom setting.
Udemy
- Course: Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development
- Where: Online
- Time: 1 hour
- Prerequisites: None
- Price: $14.99
In this course, students will learn about renewable energy such as solar energy, biomass, fossil fuels, hydroelectric energy, and wind turbines. Attendees will also learn about how sustainable energy is used in smart cities, food security, and climate change.
Coursera
- Course: Introduction to Sustainability
- Where: Online
- Time: 25 hours
- Prerequisites: None
- Price: $39 to $79 per month
This course is designed to teach students about the theory and practice of sustainability. In it, students will learn about population control, ecosystems, and environmental economics. The class also covers the principles of sustainability and welfare.
Best Free Environmental Science Courses
Here are some of the best free environmental science courses offered online.
EdX
- Course: Introduction to Environmental Science
- Where: Online
- Time: 4 weeks
- Prerequisites: A basic knowledge of physical and life sciences recommended
- Price: Free
In this class, students will apply scientific principles to examine environmental issues in the modern world. It is an introductory level environmental science class that covers a broad range of topics in the field.
John Hopkins
- Course: Environmental Health
- Where: Online
- Time: Self-paced
- Prerequisites: None
- Price: Free
Johns Hopkins University offers free, downloadable course materials on environmental science. This coursework examines health issues, scientific understanding of environmental damage, and possible approaches to solving environmental problems in developing countries. Some topics include hazardous waste, policy decisions, and environmental contaminants.
Best Environmental Science Books
There is a vast range of environmental science books and resources that you can use to advance your knowledge in the field.
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Environmental Science For Dummies, Alecia M. Spooner
This handbook breaks down natural resources and sustainability with easy to understand explanations. In it, you will learn about problems that arise from manmade pollutants and how they affect our air, water, and soil.
The book also covers how recycling and energy production technology can be used to ensure sustainability.
Environmental Science: Toward A Sustainable Future, Richard Wright and Dorothy Boorse
Author Richard T. Wright is a professor at Gordon College in Massachusetts, where he has been teaching environmental science for 28 years. Dorothy F. Boorse is an associate professor at the college, teaching about biology, the environment, and care of creation.
This book covers current environmental science issues that will help readers understand the science behind the problems, and how we can work toward building a sustainable natural world.
There Is No Planet B, Mike Berners-Lee
In this book, Berners-Lee talks about the challenges we face collectively as humans. He lays out practical courses of action that we can use to work toward a better future.
Mike uses interesting facts and analysis to explain the big-picture of environmental and economic challenges.
Best Environmental Science Certifications
Getting certified is a great way to prove your value in a particular field. It can make you more credible, and also increase your chances of securing a high-paying job.
Board Certified Environmental Scientist
The American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists uses a combination of credential reviews, examinations, and work assessments to issue this accreditation.
To be eligible, you must have a degree in environmental science or a related field, be actively engaged in environmental science, and possess ethical integrity.
Certified Environmental Scientist
A Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) certification proves you have a good understanding of the basic principles of environmental science, such as chemistry, physics, earth science, marine biology, meteorology, zoology, and environmental health.
To be eligible, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or a related field, and three years of relevant work experience.
Best Online Environmental Science Resources
Many websites provide free or paid online resources in environmental science and related topics.
TEDEd
TEDEd is home to many college and university level environmental science resources. On the website, you will find content ranging from weather to plastic waste and the chemical industry.
These topics are covered in the form of short and engaging videos, followed by multiple-choice questions. Viewers can also take part in a discussion with other participants.
Finding Dulcinia
This website offers many resources for teachers and students to learn about environmental science and the careers that are available in the field.
It includes blog posts and news articles covering the field in detail, along with a list of suggestions for other Web resources related to environmental studies.
Sustainability
This documentary available on YouTube explores the rise in sustainability over the years. The video explores the context of the Anthropocene era and covers recent economic transformations and the key factors that can help us achieve sustainability.
Should You Study Environmental Science?
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job openings for environmental scientists and specialists are projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029.
Companies have realized the need for environmental scientists due to the increased environmental risks and hazards facing the world today. The Bureau lists the average salary for an environmental scientist at $71,360 per year.
If you’re an environmentally conscious person and are ready to commit to studying more about the field, then pursuing a career in environmental science could be the right choice.
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