Oklahoma offers environmental science programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels at institutions including Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma. Environmental scientists in Oklahoma earn an average of $76,380 annually, with the field projected to grow 10.6% through 2032, creating approximately 40 annual job openings statewide.
Oklahoma faces unique environmental challenges that make careers in environmental science both critical and rewarding. From chronic drought and groundwater depletion to concerns about fracking impacts on aquifers and coal ash contamination from power plants, the state's need for environmental expertise has never been greater.
If you're passionate about protecting Oklahoma's natural resources and ensuring clean water access for communities across the state, an environmental science degree can position you to make a real impact. Whether you're interested in water quality monitoring, soil conservation, air quality management, or environmental policy, Oklahoma's programs provide the foundation you need to address these pressing challenges.
Career Outlook & Salary in Oklahoma
Environmental scientists in Oklahoma enjoy competitive salaries and strong job prospects. According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, environmental scientists and specialists in Oklahoma earn the following:
Oklahoma Salary Data:
- Average annual salary: $76,380
- Median salary: $67,530
- Entry-level (10th percentile): $49,860
- Mid-career (75th percentile): $84,390
- Experienced (90th percentile): $120,640
- Total employed in Oklahoma: 460 environmental scientists
While Oklahoma's average salary is slightly below the national average of $79,990, the state's significantly lower cost of living provides strong purchasing power. Entry-level positions offer a solid starting point, with experienced professionals earning six-figure salaries.
Job Growth Outlook:
The career outlook for environmental scientists in Oklahoma is positive. Between 2022 and 2032, the field is projected to grow by 10.6%, adding approximately 50 new positions. This creates an average of 40 annual job openings when accounting for both growth and replacement needs. This growth rate exceeds that of many other professions and reflects Oklahoma's ongoing environmental challenges and increasing focus on sustainability.
What Can I Do with an Environmental Science Degree in Oklahoma
In the government sector, the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality studies and regulates the state's air, land, and water quality. Programs range from air compliance and monitoring to public water supply assessment and water quality analysis. These positions allow you to directly impact environmental policy and enforcement across Oklahoma.
The Oklahoma Conservation Commission works with the state's 84 conservation districts to ensure proper natural resource management. Building on the legacy of Governor Robert S. Kerr, who championed water preservation during his tenure in the 1940s, these agencies continue prioritizing Oklahoma's environmental health.
Environmental efforts extend beyond government to nonprofit organizations like the Nature Conservancy in Oklahoma, which protects the state's environment through cutting-edge research. Through the Center for Sustainability Science, environmental scientists develop solutions that influence business and policy.
Your career options also include environmental toxicologist positions analyzing contamination impacts, park ranger roles protecting Oklahoma's natural areas, and environmental law careers shaping policy and compliance. The range of sustainability and green jobs continues expanding as Oklahoma addresses its environmental challenges.
Master's in Environmental Science in Oklahoma
Advancing your education to the master's level opens new professional opportunities, increases your salary potential, and positions you for leadership roles. Oklahoma offers outstanding graduate programs designed for both traditional students and working professionals.
Oklahoma State's Environmental Science graduate programs include both an MS in Environmental Science and a Professional Science Master (PSM) in Environmental Science. These programs pay homage to the interdisciplinary nature of environmental science by working with more than 30 different departments throughout the university. Students can choose from more than 200 courses for a truly customized and specialized course of study. The MS program typically takes 2-3 years and emphasizes research, while the PSM is designed for professionals seeking advanced training without a thesis requirement.
The University of Oklahoma's Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability offers an MS in Environmental Sustainability that includes relevant courses like life cycle analysis, corporate environmental strategy, and environmental sustainability theory and practice. This program appeals to students interested in the intersection of environmental science and business sustainability.
Bachelor's in Environmental Science in Oklahoma
Bachelor's degrees in environmental science provide the perfect foundation for pursuing entry-level positions and future graduate work. Oklahoma's undergraduate programs combine rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on field experiences.
Southern Nazarene University's BS in Environmental Studies prepares you for work through a comprehensive curriculum and outstanding field experiences. The program offers students the opportunity to participate in a semester abroad in Costa Rica, where you'll take courses and work in the Quetzal Education Research Center. This international experience provides perspective on global environmental challenges while building practical skills.
Oklahoma State University's BS in Agriculture - Environmental Science and the University of Oklahoma's BS in Environmental Science offer robust blends of classroom and experiential learning. These programs prepare graduates for immediate employment or graduate school through research opportunities, internships, and collaborations with state agencies and environmental organizations.
Online Environmental Science Degree Options from Schools in Oklahoma
An education in environmental science is attainable regardless of professional obligations or geographical limitations, thanks to the convenience and flexibility of online degree programs. Oklahoma institutions recognize that many students balance work, family, and education.
The University of Oklahoma offers the fully online MS in Environmental Science: Hydrology & Water Security, a truly interdisciplinary program created through a partnership between the School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science, the School of Meteorology, and the Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability. This program features an asynchronous design that allows you to study at a time and place that's most convenient for you, making it ideal for working professionals seeking to advance their careers without relocating or leaving their current positions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need to become an environmental scientist in Oklahoma?
Most entry-level environmental scientist positions in Oklahoma require a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. However, many positions with state agencies and research organizations prefer or require a master's degree. Advanced positions in research, consulting, or management typically require a master's or doctoral degree. Your specific career goals will determine the appropriate education level.
How much do environmental scientists earn in Oklahoma?
Environmental scientists in Oklahoma earn an average annual salary of $76,380, according to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level positions start around $49,860, while experienced professionals can earn $120,640 or more. The median salary is $67,530. These figures vary based on education level, experience, specialization, and employer type.
What are the best environmental science programs in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma both offer excellent environmental science programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Oklahoma State's programs stand out for their interdisciplinary approach, offering access to more than 200 courses across 30+ departments. The University of Oklahoma excels in hydrology and water security with specialized programs. Southern Nazarene University offers strong undergraduate programs with unique international field experience opportunities in Costa Rica.
Is there job growth for environmental scientists in Oklahoma?
Yes, environmental science is a growing field in Oklahoma. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10.6% employment growth for environmental scientists in Oklahoma between 2022 and 2032. This growth will create approximately 50 new positions, with an average of 40 annual job openings when including replacement needs. Oklahoma's ongoing environmental challenges ensure continued demand for qualified professionals.
Can I study environmental science online in Oklahoma?
Yes, the University of Oklahoma offers a fully online MS in Environmental Science with a specialization in Hydrology and Water Security. This asynchronous program allows you to complete coursework on your schedule while maintaining your current employment. The program is designed for working professionals and provides the same quality education as on-campus programs through an interdisciplinary curriculum.
Key Takeaways
- Competitive Salaries: Environmental scientists in Oklahoma earn an average of $76,380 annually, with experienced professionals earning over $120,000, providing strong purchasing power given Oklahoma's lower cost of living.
- Positive Job Growth: Oklahoma projects 10.6% employment growth through 2032, creating approximately 40 annual job openings for environmental scientists addressing the state's water quality, soil conservation, and air quality challenges.
- Diverse Educational Pathways: Oklahoma offers environmental science programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels at institutions like Oklahoma State University, University of Oklahoma, and Southern Nazarene University, with both traditional and online options available.
- Unique State Challenges: Oklahoma's specific environmental issues-including drought, groundwater depletion, fracking impacts, and coal ash contamination-create meaningful career opportunities for environmental scientists committed to protecting natural resources.
- Multiple Career Sectors: Environmental scientists in Oklahoma work across government agencies like the Department of Environmental Quality, conservation districts, nonprofit organizations like the Nature Conservancy, and private consulting firms.
Ready to start your environmental science journey in Oklahoma? Explore degree programs that align with your career goals and Oklahoma's unique environmental challenges.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for Environmental Scientists and Specialists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.
