Environmental Science (B.S.) focuses on hard sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, and quantitative research) preparing students for technical field and lab work. Environmental Studies (B.A.) emphasizes policy, law, economics, and social sciences, leading to advocacy, planning, and sustainability roles. Choose based on whether you prefer scientific analysis or policy implementation.
You're passionate about protecting the environment and ready to declare a major. But when you search for degree programs, you find two options that sound nearly identical: Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. The confusion is real, and the stakes are high. This decision shapes your coursework for the next four years, the skills you'll develop, and ultimately, your career trajectory.
The good news? The difference between these degrees is clearer than you might think, and understanding it will help you choose the path that matches your strengths and career goals. Whether you're drawn to lab work and data analysis or prefer policy discussions and community engagement, there's a degree designed for your interests.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know: core curriculum differences, career paths for each degree, salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job market outlook, and a decision framework to help you choose. We'll also share insights from Reddit communities where students and professionals discuss what they wish they'd known before choosing their major. Still questioning whether environmental science is right for you? Our comprehensive guide explores career prospects and ROI.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Core Difference
Career Paths: Where Each Degree Leads
Making Your Decision: Which Degree Is Right for You?
Graduate School Considerations
Real Student and Professional Insights
Understanding the Core Difference
The fundamental distinction between Environmental Science and Environmental Studies comes down to approach: science versus policy, quantitative versus qualitative, lab bench versus conference table.
What Is Environmental Science?
Environmental Science is typically offered as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a heavy emphasis on the natural sciences. This degree trains you to investigate environmental problems using scientific methods: collecting samples, analyzing data, conducting experiments, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
Your coursework centers on biology, chemistry, physics, calculus, and statistics. You'll spend significant time in laboratories testing water quality, analyzing soil composition, or studying ecosystem dynamics. Field research is common: wading through wetlands to collect samples, monitoring wildlife populations, or measuring air pollutants.
The program develops technical skills like laboratory techniques, statistical analysis, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping, and scientific writing. You learn to design experiments, interpret complex datasets, and communicate findings to both scientific and general audiences.
Think of Environmental Science as the "how and why" degree. You're learning how natural systems work and why they respond to human activities the way they do. Your senior capstone might involve original research on topics like microplastic pollution in local waterways or the effectiveness of wetland restoration techniques.
What Is Environmental Studies?
Environmental Studies is usually offered as a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, though some institutions offer it as a B.S. with less intensive science requirements. This degree examines environmental issues through the lens of policy, economics, law, sociology, and ethics. Rather than focusing on the science behind environmental problems, you study how societies can address these challenges through policy, planning, and behavioral change.
Your coursework emphasizes environmental policy analysis, law, economics, urban planning, and sustainability. You'll read extensively, write research papers, analyze case studies, and engage in debates about environmental justice, resource management, and international environmental agreements.
The program develops skills in policy evaluation, stakeholder communication, project management, and strategic planning. You learn to navigate complex regulatory frameworks, facilitate community engagement, and develop sustainability initiatives for organizations or municipalities.
Think of Environmental Studies as the "what should we do about it" degree. You're learning how to translate environmental science into action through policy, education, and institutional change. Your capstone project might involve developing a sustainability plan for a local business or analyzing the effectiveness of state renewable energy policies.
The B.S. vs. B.A. Distinction
The degree type matters more than you might expect. A Bachelor of Science signals rigorous quantitative training and opens doors to technical positions that explicitly require science backgrounds. Graduate programs in environmental science, engineering, or ecology typically expect B.S. applicants to have substantial coursework in chemistry, physics, and calculus.
Here's an important insight from Reddit's environmental career communities: professionals with Environmental Science degrees report they can transition into policy roles relatively easily. Their technical credibility is valued in policy discussions. However, Environmental Studies graduates consistently say that pivoting into technical science positions is extremely difficult without returning for additional coursework or earning a second degree.
This doesn't mean Environmental Studies is the "wrong" choice, but it does mean you should think carefully about whether you want to preserve the option of technical scientific work in the future.
Curriculum Comparison
Understanding what you'll actually study in each program helps clarify which path fits your academic strengths and interests.
Curriculum at a Glance
| Environmental Science (B.S.) | Environmental Studies (B.A.) |
|---|---|
| Focus: Hard sciences, quantitative research | Focus: Policy, social sciences, qualitative analysis |
| Core Sciences: Biology I & II with labs, General Chemistry I & II with labs, Physics I & II, Organic Chemistry | Core Sciences: Environmental Science 101, Intro to Ecology (1-2 courses total) |
| Math Requirements: Calculus I & II, Statistics, Data Analysis | Math Requirements: Statistics or Quantitative Methods (1 course) |
| Key Courses: Ecology, Environmental Chemistry, Hydrology, Soil Science, Atmospheric Science, Toxicology, GIS, Field Methods | Key Courses: Environmental Policy & Regulation, Environmental Law, Environmental Economics, Sustainability Studies, Environmental Ethics, Urban Planning, Natural Resource Management |
| Lab Time: 3-6 hours per week per science course | Lab Time: Minimal to none |
| Writing: Lab reports, scientific papers | Writing: Policy analyses, research papers, case studies, position papers |
| Capstone: Research thesis with original data collection | Capstone: Applied project with real organization (sustainability plan, policy analysis) |
| Career Prep: Technical field/lab positions, scientific research | Career Prep: Policy analysis, planning, education, advocacy |
Environmental Science Coursework
A typical B.S. in Environmental Science requires a substantial foundation in the hard sciences. Your first two years often mirror a general biology or chemistry major, with courses like General Biology I and II with lab components covering cellular biology, genetics, and evolution, General Chemistry I and II with labs emphasizing stoichiometry, thermodynamics, and organic chemistry basics, Physics I and II covering mechanics, electricity, and magnetism, Calculus I and II providing the mathematical foundation for modeling environmental systems, and Statistics and data analysis for interpreting research findings.
As you progress into upper-level courses, you'll take specialized classes like ecology (examining relationships between organisms and their environments), environmental chemistry (studying pollutants and their transformations), hydrology (analyzing water systems), soil science, atmospheric science, and environmental toxicology.
Lab components are substantial. Expect to spend 3-6 hours per week in laboratory sessions for each science course. You'll learn techniques such as spectrophotometry, chromatography, microscopy, and field sampling. Many programs also require a field methods course in which you spend extensive time outdoors collecting and analyzing environmental data.
Senior requirements typically include a research thesis or a capstone project that involves original data collection and analysis. You might study antibiotic resistance in urban waterways, assess the impact of invasive species on native bird populations, or evaluate the effectiveness of green infrastructure for stormwater management.
Environmental Studies Coursework
An Environmental Studies B.A. builds on a liberal arts foundation with much less intensive science requirements. You might take one or two introductory science courses (such as Environmental Science 101 or Ecology), but the emphasis quickly shifts to the social sciences and humanities.
Core courses often include environmental policy and regulation (examining laws like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and NEPA), environmental economics (studying market-based solutions, externalities, and cost-benefit analysis), environmental law, environmental ethics and philosophy, sustainability studies, and environmental sociology.
You'll also take courses in related fields like urban planning, public administration, international development, or natural resource management. Many programs emphasize interdisciplinary perspectives, encouraging you to understand environmental issues from multiple angles: economic, social, political, and ethical.
Writing requirements are substantial. Instead of lab reports, you'll write policy analyses, research papers, case studies, and position papers. You might analyze the effectiveness of carbon pricing mechanisms, evaluate environmental justice concerns in urban development, or compare international approaches to climate adaptation.
Capstone projects typically involve applied work with real organizations. Students might develop a waste reduction program for their campus, create a sustainability assessment tool for local businesses, or research community responses to sea-level rise in coastal areas.
Overlapping Areas
Despite their differences, both programs cover some common ground. Most students in either major take introductory environmental science courses covering basic ecology, conservation biology, and natural resource management. Both programs increasingly teach GIS and remote sensing, recognizing that these tools are valuable across environmental careers. Elective flexibility often allows Environmental Science majors to take policy courses and Environmental Studies majors to add extra science electives.
Some universities offer combined programs or allow significant customization through concentrations. If you're genuinely interested in both scientific analysis and policy work, look for programs that support this interdisciplinary approach.
Career Paths: Where Each Degree Leads
Your degree choice significantly influences which career doors open most readily after graduation.
Career Paths Comparison
| Career Category | Environmental Science (B.S.) | Environmental Studies (B.A.) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Roles | Environmental Scientist/Specialist, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Engineer, Hydrologist, Toxicologist, Wildlife Biologist, Soil Scientist, Climate Data Analyst, Field Technician | Environmental Policy Analyst, Sustainability Coordinator, Urban Planner, Environmental Educator, Non-profit Program Manager, Corporate Sustainability Officer, Community Outreach Coordinator, Environmental Justice Advocate |
| Median Salary | $80,060 (BLS 2024) | Varies by role: $40,000-$85,000+ |
| Top Employers | Environmental consulting firms, EPA, USGS, NOAA, State environmental agencies, Private corporations, Research institutions | Government policy offices, Non-profit organizations, Universities, Municipalities, Corporate sustainability departments, Urban planning agencies |
| Key Skills | Laboratory techniques, Statistical analysis, Field sampling, Data analysis, GIS, Scientific writing, Technical software | Policy analysis, Stakeholder communication, Project management, Grant writing, Facilitation, Strategic planning, Regulatory knowledge |
| Advancement Path | Senior Scientist, Project Manager, Lab Director, Specialized Researcher | Policy Director, Sustainability Manager, Planning Director, Executive Director (non-profit) |
| Grad School | Often required for advancement | Common but not always required |
Environmental Science Career Options
With a B.S. in Environmental Science, you qualify for technical positions that require scientific expertise and analytical skills. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists was $80,060 as of 2024, with approximately 8,500 job openings annually.
Common career paths include environmental scientist or specialist positions at consulting firms, government agencies, or corporations. You might conduct Phase I and II environmental site assessments, monitor air and water quality, or evaluate the environmental impact of proposed development projects. Environmental consulting remains one of the largest employers of environmental science graduates.
Government agencies actively recruit environmental science graduates. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and state environmental departments all need staff with technical scientific skills. These positions often involve regulatory enforcement, environmental monitoring, or research.
Specialized roles include conservation scientists managing natural resources for government agencies or private landowners, hydrologists studying water distribution and quality, wildlife biologists researching animal populations and habitats, soil scientists assessing land capability for agriculture or development, environmental toxicologists studying how pollutants affect living organisms, and climate data analysts examining long-term climate trends and impacts.
Field technician and research positions, though often temporary or seasonal, provide valuable early-career experience. Many environmental science graduates start in these roles while pursuing graduate degrees or building experience for permanent positions.
The technical nature of these careers generally requires proficiency in scientific software, data analysis tools, field and laboratory methods, and technical report writing. Strong quantitative skills open doors to higher-paying positions in data science, modeling, or specialized research.
Environmental Studies Career Options
With a B.A. in Environmental Studies, you're well-positioned for roles in policy, planning, education, and program management. Salary ranges vary widely by sector and position, but starting salaries tend to be slightly lower than in technical science roles, with strong growth potential in corporate sustainability roles.
Environmental policy analyst positions involve researching environmental regulations, evaluating policy effectiveness, and recommending policy changes for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations. Sustainability coordinators develop and implement sustainability programs for corporations, universities, or municipalities. This is one of the fastest-growing areas in environmental careers. Corporate sustainability careers have expanded dramatically as ESG initiatives become business priorities.
Urban and regional planners with environmental specializations work on comprehensive planning, zoning, and land use issues with environmental considerations. This role typically requires a master's degree for advancement, but you can start as an assistant or associate planner with a bachelor's degree.
Environmental educators work for nature centers, museums, schools, or non-profit organizations, developing educational programs about environmental topics. Non-profit program managers oversee initiatives related to conservation, environmental justice, climate action, or sustainable development for environmental organizations.
Corporate sustainability officers work within companies to develop sustainability strategies, reduce environmental footprints, and meet corporate social responsibility goals. As corporations face increasing pressure to address environmental impacts, these positions have expanded significantly. Environmental consultants on the policy side help organizations navigate environmental regulations, develop compliance strategies, and obtain necessary permits. Community outreach coordinators facilitate public engagement around environmental projects or policies, often serving as a bridge between technical experts and community members.
These careers emphasize skills such as policy analysis and writing, stakeholder communication and facilitation, project planning and management, grant writing and fundraising (especially in nonprofits), and strategic planning and implementation.
Career Flexibility and Pivoting
One of the most consistent pieces of advice from professionals in Reddit's environmental career communities: if you're uncertain which path to choose, a science degree provides more flexibility.
An Environmental Science graduate can transition into policy work by emphasizing analytical skills, gaining policy experience through internships, taking policy electives or a minor, or pursuing a master's degree in environmental management or public policy. Many environmental policy positions value scientific literacy, and science graduates bring credibility to policy discussions.
However, transitioning into high-level policy roles often requires formal policy training or graduate education. Entry-level policy positions may be accessible with a science degree and relevant experience. Still, senior policy analyst, legislative affairs, or policy director positions typically favor candidates with master's degrees in public policy, public administration, or environmental management, along with substantial policy experience.
Transitioning from Environmental Studies to technical scientific work is significantly more challenging. Science positions typically require specific coursework and laboratory experience that Environmental Studies programs don't provide. If you realize after graduation that you want to work as an environmental scientist or pursue graduate work in a scientific field, you'd likely need to complete post-baccalaureate coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics before being competitive for these positions.
This doesn't mean Environmental Studies graduates are locked out of all science-adjacent work. Many find roles that bridge science and policy, work in science communication, or support scientific research in administrative or coordination roles. But direct technical scientific positions remain largely inaccessible without additional training.
Salary and Job Outlook
Understanding earning potential and job market trends helps you assess the financial return on your educational investment.
Environmental Science Salary Data
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, environmental scientists and specialists earned a median annual wage of $80,060 in 2024. This represents the midpoint. Half of the workers earned more than that amount, and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,130, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $134,830.
Entry-level positions typically start in the $45,000-$55,000 range, with significant variation based on sector and location. Federal government positions often offer higher starting salaries than state/local government or private sector roles. Environmental consultants may start at a lower level but have the potential for significant increases as they gain experience and professional certifications.
Geographic location substantially impacts salary. Environmental scientists in California, Massachusetts, and Washington typically earn above the national median, reflecting both higher costs of living and strong environmental sectors in these states. Rural areas and states with smaller environmental sectors generally offer lower salaries but may have lower living costs.
Experience and specialization drive long-term earning potential. Scientists with 10+ years of experience, professional certifications (such as Professional Geologist or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager), and specialized expertise in areas such as climate modeling or toxicology can earn $90,000-$120,000 or more, particularly in private-sector consulting or senior government positions.
Environmental Studies Salary Data
Salary data for Environmental Studies graduates is harder to pin down because career paths are more diverse. Someone working as a sustainability coordinator for a Fortune 500 company might earn $65,000-$85,000, while a program coordinator at a small environmental non-profit might earn $40,000-$50,000.
Environmental policy analysts with government agencies or think tanks typically earn $50,000-$70,000 early in their careers, with potential to reach $80,000-$100,000+ with experience and advanced degrees. Urban planners with environmental specializations earned a median wage of approximately $79,000 in 2024, but most planner positions require a master's degree.
Corporate sustainability roles have grown significantly and often offer competitive compensation, especially at large corporations committed to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. Sustainability managers at major corporations can earn $75,000-$110,000+, though these positions typically require several years of experience.
Non-profit sector positions generally offer lower salaries than corporate or government roles, but many environmental studies graduates choose this sector for mission-driven work. Non-profit salaries vary dramatically based on organization size and funding, with small grassroots organizations offering modest compensation while large, established environmental organizations offer more competitive salaries.
Job Market Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of environmental scientists and specialists to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This translates to approximately 4,000 new jobs over the decade, with about 8,500 job openings annually when accounting for both growth and the need to replace workers who leave the field.
Job growth drivers include increasing public interest in environmental issues, the need to comply with environmental regulations, concerns about climate change impacts and adaptation, corporate sustainability initiatives and ESG reporting, and the remediation of contaminated sites.
The strongest job markets are in states with large environmental sectors or strict environmental regulations, including California, Washington, Massachusetts, New York, Colorado, and Oregon. However, opportunities exist nationwide, as every state has environmental protection needs.
Emerging opportunitiesincluden climate adaptation and resilience planning, renewable energy project development and assessment, environmental justice and equity work, circular economy and waste reduction, and green infrastructure and nature-based solutions.
Competition for positions varies. Federal government jobs with agencies such as the EPA or the USGS are highly competitive and often require graduate degrees. Private sector consulting positions have steadier demand and may be more accessible to bachelor's-level graduates, though advancement typically requires experience and often a master's degree.
Making Your Decision: Which Degree Is Right for You?
Choosing between Environmental Science and Environmental Studies isn't about which degree is "better." It's about which aligns with your strengths, interests, and career goals.
Choose Environmental Science If:
You enjoy hands-on laboratory work and scientific investigation. If you liked your high school chemistry and biology classes and found satisfaction in conducting experiments and analyzing results, Environmental Science will feel like a natural extension of those interests.
You're comfortable with advanced mathematics and chemistry. Environmental Science requires calculus, statistics, and chemistry through at least organic chemistry. You don't need to love math, but you do need the willingness to work through quantitative material.
You prefer working with data and quantitative analysis. Environmental Science careers involve collecting measurements, running statistical analyses, and drawing evidence-based conclusions from numerical data.
You're interested in technical fields and laboratory positions. If you envision yourself collecting water samples, monitoring wildlife, or analyzing pollutants in a lab, the science degree prepares you directly for this work.
You're considering graduate school inthe sciences. A B.S. in Environmental Science keeps the door open to master's or doctoral programs in environmental science, ecology, toxicology, or related scientific fields.
You want maximum career flexibility. The science degree allows you to pivot into policy work later, while also maintaining access to technical scientific positions. Ready to explore environmental science degree programs? Start by comparing curriculum requirements and specializations.
Choose Environmental Studies If:
You're passionate about policy, advocacy, and systemic change. If you're more interested in how we create solutions to environmental problems than in the scientific details of those problems, Environmental Studies aligns with that orientation.
You prefer writing, reading, and qualitative analysis over laboratory work. Environmental Studies involves substantial reading, writing, researching papers, and analyzing policy documents rather than conducting experiments.
You're drawn to community engagement and facilitation. Many Environmental Studies careers involve working with diverse stakeholders, facilitating public input, or coordinating community initiatives.
You want to work in planning, education, or the non-profit sector. If you envision yourself working for environmental organizations, in education, or in municipal planning departments, Environmental Studies provides relevant preparation.
You're strong in communication and social sciences. Environmental Studies values skills in persuasive writing, public speaking, negotiation, and understanding human behavior and social systems.
You're specifically not interested in laboratory or highly technical work. If you know laboratory science isn't for you, don't force yourself through a science degree. Environmental Studies offers a legitimate path to environmental careers without that requirement.
Consider a Double Major or Minor
Some students benefit from combining both perspectives. Common approaches include an Environmental Science major with a policy or economics minor, an Environmental Studies major with extra science electives, or a double major in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies (where programs allow).
Benefits of this approach include enhanced marketability for interdisciplinary positions, a broader understanding of environmental issues from multiple angles, and the flexibility to pursue either a technical or a policy career path.
The tradeoff is additional time and coursework. Double majors typically require an extra year, or at least careful planning, to fit requirements into four years. Consider whether the additional investment provides enough value for your specific career goals.
Graduate School Considerations
Many environmental careers benefit from or require graduate education. Your undergraduate degree choice influences your graduate school options. Both degree paths can benefit from scholarships for environmental science students to reduce educational costs.
Graduate Programs by Degree Path
| For Environmental Science Majors | For Environmental Studies Majors |
|---|---|
| M.S. in Environmental Science (2 years, thesis-based, research focus) | Master of Environmental Management (MEM) (2 years, applied focus, no thesis) |
| M.S. in Environmental Engineering (2 years, technical/applied) | Master of Public Policy (MPP) with environmental concentration |
| M.S. in Ecology (2 years, research focus) | Master of Public Administration (MPA) with environmental focus |
| Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences (4-6 years, original research) | Master of Urban Planning with environmental specialization |
| Professional Science Master's (PSM) (business + science, no thesis) | MBA with Sustainability concentration |
| Specialized programs: Hydrology, Toxicology, Atmospheric Science | J.D. (Law School) for environmental law careers |
| Funding: Research assistantships are often available | Funding: Less common, more reliant on loans/scholarships |
Master's Programs for Science Majors
Environmental Science graduates commonly pursue Master of Science (M.S.) degrees in environmental science, environmental engineering, ecology, or specialized fields like hydrology or toxicology. These programs typically require 2 years of full-time study and often include a research thesis.
Ph.D. programs in environmental sciences are available for those interested in research or academic careers. Doctoral programs typically take 4-6 years and involve original research contributing new knowledge to the field.
Professional Science Master's (PSM) programs combine advanced scientific training with business and management skills, preparing graduates for leadership positions in environmental consulting, government, or corporate sectors. These programs emphasize practical application over research and usually don't require a thesis.
Many science graduate programs offer research assistantships that cover tuition and provide a stipend in exchange for assisting with faculty research. This funding can make graduate school financially feasible.
Master's Programs for Studies Majors
Environmental Studies graduates often pursue Master of Environmental Management (MEM) or Master of Environmental Science and Management (MESM) programs. These interdisciplinary degrees emphasize policy, management, and applied problem-solving rather than laboratory research.
Master of Public Policy (MPP) or Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs with environmental concentrations prepare graduates for careers in policy analysis and government administration. These programs emphasize quantitative policy analysis, economics, and program evaluation.
Master of Urban and Regional Planning programs with an environmental focus prepare graduates for planning careers that address environmental challenges in the built environment. Many planning positions require this degree for advancement.
MBA programs with sustainability concentrations are increasingly common, preparing graduates for roles in corporate sustainability, environmental consulting, or social enterprise. These programs emphasize business fundamentals alongside environmental management.
Law school (J.D.) represents another path for Environmental Studies graduates interested in environmental law, regulatory work, or advocacy through legal channels.
Switching Tracks in Graduate School
Can you switch from Environmental Studies to a science graduate program? It's possible but challenging. You'll likely need prerequisite coursework in chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics. Many universities offer post-baccalaureate certificate programs that allow students to complete prerequisites before applying to graduate programs.
Switching from Environmental Science to policy or management programs is much easier. Your scientific background is often valued in these programs, and you may already have taken relevant coursework as electives. Online environmental science programs offer flexibility for students balancing work and education.
Real Student and Professional Insights
Reddit's environmental career communities provide unfiltered perspectives from students and professionals navigating these decisions.
What Reddit Communities Say
The consensus from Reddit discussions is clear: if you're uncertain, choose the science degree. Thread after thread, Environmental Studies graduates wish they'd chosen Environmental Science for the flexibility it provides. As one user put it, "You can always go from science to policy, but going from policy to science is nearly impossible without going back to school."
Several Environmental Studies graduates report difficulty finding jobs that don't require additional education. One noted, "I loved my Environmental Studies program, but I'm essentially locked into policy/planning roles or need a master's to be competitive. My friends with science degrees have way more options."
However, success stories exist on both paths. Students who pursued Environmental Studies with clear career goals (knowing they wanted policy, education, or planning work) report satisfaction with their choice. The key is intentionality: understand what each degree offers and choose deliberately rather than assuming they're interchangeable.
Common advice includes getting internships as early as possible, networking aggressively, not relying solely on your degree to open doors, honestly assessing your math and science comfort level, and remembering that graduate school is common in both paths.
Getting Practical Experience
Regardless of which degree you choose, internships and practical experience are essential. Environmental fields are relationship-driven, and employers value demonstrated interest and experience. Finding environmental science internships early in your college career builds practical experience and professional connections.
Federal programs offer excellent opportunities. The EPA Pathways Program, USGS student internships, and NOAA Hollings Scholarship program provide paid internships with potential for permanent employment. State environmental agencies also offer internship programs, often focused on water quality monitoring, wildlife management, or regulatory compliance.
Non-profit environmental organizations need interns for field work, community organizing, policy research, and education programs. While these are sometimes unpaid or offer modest stipends, they provide valuable experience and networking opportunities.
Start building your network early. Attend environmental career fairs, join professional organizations such as the National Association of Environmental Professionals, connect with alums working in environmental fields, and participate in environmental clubs or research groups on campus. Many environmental jobs come through personal connections rather than public job postings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in environmental policy with an Environmental Science degree?
Yes, absolutely. Many environmental policy positions value scientific literacy and analytical skills that Environmental Science majors develop. You may need to supplement your coursework with policy electives or pursue a policy-focused master's degree, but the transition is common and feasible. Your scientific credibility can be an asset in policy discussions, where you can evaluate the technical merits of different policy options.
Is Environmental Science harder than Environmental Studies?
"Harder" depends on your strengths. Environmental Science requires more intensive mathematics and laboratory sciences, which some students find challenging. Environmental Studies requires substantial reading, writing, and critical analysis, which other students find demanding. Neither is inherently easier. They emphasize different skills. Consider which type of academic work matches your strengths rather than which sounds "easier."
Which degree is better for getting into law school?
Law schools do not require an undergraduate major and actively seek diverse academic backgrounds. Both Environmental Science and Environmental Studies graduates are equally competitive for law school admission. Your LSAT score, GPA, personal statement, and demonstrated interest in environmental law matter far more than your specific major.
Environmental Studies might provide exposure to legal concepts through coursework in environmental law and policy, which could help you articulate your interest in environmental law during the application process. Environmental Science offers strong analytical and writing skills that law schools value, plus scientific credibility that's particularly useful if you're interested in practicing environmental law (where understanding technical scientific evidence is crucial).
Many successful environmental lawyers come from both backgrounds. The key is demonstrating clear motivation for law school and strong academic performance in whichever program you choose.
Can I get a science job with an Environmental Studies degree?
Technical scientific positions (such as environmental scientist, lab technician, or field researcher) typically require the coursework and laboratory experience that Environmental Science provides. Without that foundation, you'd struggle to compete for these positions. However, science-adjacent roles in science communication, research coordination, or program management may be accessible with an Environmental Studies degree plus relevant experience.
What if I'm not good at chemistry or math?
If you genuinely struggle with or dislike chemistry and advanced mathematics, Environmental Science will be challenging and potentially frustrating. Environmental Studies offers a legitimate path to environmental careers without intensive science requirements. Don't force yourself through a science degree if it's truly not your strength, but also be realistic about the career limitations you may face later. Consider whether moderate discomfort with math and chemistry is worth pushing through for the career flexibility a science degree provides.
Do employers care about the difference between these degrees?
Yes, for certain positions. Technical scientific roles explicitly require science degrees and relevant coursework. Policy and planning positions may accept either degree, but often prefer candidates with relevant experience and skills regardless of degree title. Corporate sustainability roles place greater emphasis on demonstrated skills and experience than on specific degree names. The degree matters most early in your career; as you gain experience, your track record becomes more important than your undergraduate major.
Can I change my major from Studies to Science (or vice versa) partway through college?
Yes, though switching from Environmental Studies to Environmental Science is easier earlier in your college career. If you switch after completing significant coursework in the humanities and social sciences, you may need additional semesters to complete the science requirements. Switching from Environmental Science to Environmental Studies is usually straightforward since your science courses can count as electives. Talk to an academic advisor as soon as you're considering a change to understand the implications for your graduation timeline.
Key Takeaways
- The core difference lies in approach: Environmental Science focuses on technical, quantitative research using the hard sciences, while Environmental Studies emphasizes policy, planning, and the social dimensions of environmental issues through a liberal arts perspective.
- Career flexibility: Environmental Science offers greater career flexibility, allowing graduates to work in technical scientific roles or pivot into policy roles. Environmental Studies graduates find transitioning to technical science work extremely difficult without additional education.
- Salary and job outlook: Environmental scientists earned a median salary of $80,060 in 2024 (Bureau of Labor Statistics), with job growth projected at 4% through 2034 and approximately 8,500 annual job openings accounting for both growth and replacement needs.
- Choose based on strengths: If you enjoy laboratory work and quantitative analysis, choose Environmental Science. If you're passionate about policy, community engagement, and writing-intensive work, Environmental Studies is a valid path.
- Experience matters: Both degrees benefit from early internships, networking, and practical experience. Your degree opens doors, but your skills, experience, and professional connections determine career success in environmental fields.
Ready to explore environmental degree programs? Use our school finder to discover accredited programs that match your interests and career goals.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for Environmental Scientists and Specialists reflect national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed February 2026.
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