Oregon offers comprehensive environmental science programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels at institutions like Oregon State University, University of Oregon, and Oregon Tech. Environmental scientists in Oregon earn an average of $95,990 annually, exceeding the national average by over $7,000. The field is projected to grow 16.2% through 2032, creating approximately 120 annual job openings.
If Oregon's remarkable natural environment inspires your environmental passion, you're in an ideal location to pursue environmental science education. With respected programs at Oregon State University, the University of Oregon, and several other institutions, you can turn your interest in preserving Oregon's forests, coastlines, and water resources into a fulfilling career. Whether you're seeking a bachelor's degree to start your career or an advanced degree to specialize, Oregon's educational landscape offers diverse pathways. You can also explore environmental science scholarships to help finance your education.
Why Study Environmental Science in Oregon?
Oregon's diverse ecosystems create an exceptional living laboratory for environmental science students. The state's coastline stretches 363 miles along the Pacific Ocean, offering unique opportunities to study marine ecosystems and coastal management. The Cascade Range provides access to volcanic geology, alpine ecosystems, and climate research sites. Oregon's forests cover nearly half the state, making it an ideal location for studying forest ecology, wildfire science, and sustainable timber management.
The state faces critical environmental challenges that drive research and career opportunities. Water resource management is particularly important here, with the Columbia River Basin, Willamette Valley water systems, and ongoing debates about balancing agricultural, urban, and ecological water needs. Climate change impacts are visible throughout Oregon, from changing snowpack patterns affecting water supply to shifting species ranges in coastal and mountain ecosystems. These real-world challenges mean Oregon environmental scientists work on problems with immediate practical applications.
Oregon has also emerged as a leader in renewable energy research and implementation. The state's wind energy resources along the Columbia River Gorge, hydroelectric power infrastructure, and growing solar energy sector create opportunities for environmental scientists focused on sustainable energy transitions. This combination of natural resources, environmental challenges, and policy leadership makes Oregon an engaging place to study and practice environmental science.
Environmental Science Career Outlook in Oregon
Salary Information
Environmental scientists in Oregon earn competitive salaries that exceed national averages. According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, environmental scientists and specialists in Oregon earn an annual mean wage of $95,990, with a median wage of $93,560. This significantly outpaces the national mean wage for environmental scientists of $88,640 by more than $7,000 annually.
Salary ranges vary based on experience, specialization, and sector. Entry-level environmental scientists in Oregon (10th percentile) earn approximately $58,560 annually, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $132,220 or more. The middle salary range spans from $72,180 (25th percentile) to $113,030 (75th percentile), reflecting the diversity of positions and specializations within the field.
Job Growth Projections
Oregon's environmental science employment outlook is exceptionally strong compared to national trends. According to Oregon Employment Department projections, the state expects 16.2% employment growth for environmental scientists and specialists from 2022 to 2032, more than double the national average of approximately 7%. This growth translates to 190 new positions over the decade, expanding from a base of 1,170 positions in 2022 to 1,360 positions by 2032.
Oregon expects approximately 120 annual job openings for environmental scientists throughout the projection period. These openings result from both employment growth and the need to replace workers who retire or transfer to other occupations. Career opportunities span the private sector (environmental consulting firms, renewable energy companies), nonprofit organizations (conservation groups, research centers), and government agencies (Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, U.S. Forest Service, Environmental Protection Agency regional offices).
The strong job market reflects Oregon's commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. State policies prioritizing clean energy, water quality, and ecosystem preservation create ongoing demand for qualified environmental scientists. Related career paths worth exploring include park ranger careers for those interested in natural resource management, environmental toxicologist positions for those focused on pollution and public health, and agricultural engineering roles that combine environmental science with Oregon's significant agricultural sector.
Bachelor's in Environmental Science in Oregon
Oregon's undergraduate environmental science programs provide the essential foundation for launching your career. Several institutions offer comprehensive programs, each with unique strengths.
Oregon State University
Oregon State University offers a robust BS in Environmental Sciences that you can customize through multiple specializations. The program provides a strong grounding in scientific principles while allowing you to focus on areas matching your career interests. Oregon State's research legacy and connections throughout the state create excellent opportunities for undergraduate research participation and internship placement.
University of Oregon
The University of Oregon offers undergraduate environmental science education through its interdisciplinary BA/BS programs, allowing students to combine environmental studies with complementary disciplines. Students benefit from access to the Institute for Ecology and Evolution, the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, and other specialized research centers. This integration gives undergraduates exposure to cutting-edge environmental research early in their academic careers.
Oregon Tech
Oregon Tech's BS in Environmental Sciences emphasizes hands-on experiential learning. The university maintains on-campus study sites, including the Native Garden, developed in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This practical approach means you'll gain field experience and technical skills alongside classroom learning, making Oregon Tech particularly suitable if you prefer learning by doing.
Pacific University
Pacific University's BS in Environmental Science allows you to specialize in either Environmental Biology or Chemistry & Toxicology. This choice lets you tailor your undergraduate education toward specific career paths, whether you're drawn to ecological research or environmental health and pollution science.
Master's in Environmental Science in Oregon
An environmental science master's program positions you for advanced research roles, leadership positions, and specialized career paths. Oregon's graduate programs combine rigorous academics with practical research opportunities.
Oregon State University MS Programs
Oregon State University continues its environmental education legacy with comprehensive graduate options. The MS in Environmental Sciences can be customized through concentrations in biochemistry, ecology, quantitative analysis, climate change, and water resources. This flexibility allows you to develop specialized expertise aligned with your career goals.
For early- to mid-career professionals seeking career advancement, Oregon State also offers a Professional Science Master's in Environmental Sciences. This program specifically addresses the needs of working professionals, combining advanced scientific training with professional skills development.
University of Oregon MA/MS Programs
The University of Oregon's MA/MS in Environmental Studies provides access to outstanding environmental research centers. Students can engage with the Institute for Ecology and Evolution, the Ecological Design Center, the Institute for a Sustainable Environment, and the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology. These research connections mean your graduate work can contribute to ongoing environmental research addressing real challenges.
Online Environmental Science Programs in Oregon
Distance-based programs accommodate students with geographical constraints, work commitments, or family responsibilities. Oregon State University, a fully accredited public research university, leads in online environmental science education, offering both undergraduate and graduate options that maintain the same academic standards as campus-based programs.
Oregon State Online MS
The online MS in Environmental Sciences from Oregon State delivers full program content remotely. You can choose from multiple specialization tracks, allowing focused study without relocating. The program offers flexible start dates throughout the year, providing options to begin when it fits your schedule. This combination of academic quality and practical flexibility makes Oregon State's online MS particularly attractive for working professionals.
Oregon State Online BS
Oregon State's BS in Environmental Sciences is also available fully online, with specialization options including environmental agriculture, applied ecology, earth systems, and aquatic biology. This range of specializations means you can pursue focused career preparation even in a distance format. The online delivery maintains Oregon State's academic standards while removing geographical barriers to enrollment.
Environmental Organizations and Career Opportunities
Oregon's environmental community extends well beyond academic institutions, offering networking opportunities, internships, and career pathways through diverse organizations. Understanding this landscape helps you build connections during your education that can lead to career opportunities after graduation.
The Environment Oregon Research & Policy Center leads environmental research efforts across multiple issue areas, including climate change, recycling systems, and renewable energy sources. Their research directly influences state environmental policy and creates opportunities for environmental scientists to engage in policy-relevant work.
Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) oversees environmental regulation throughout the state. DEQ programs cover air quality monitoring, water resource management, environmental cleanup of contaminated sites, and groundwater protection. State agency positions offer stable careers with strong benefits and the opportunity to directly implement environmental protection policies.
Conservation organizations provide another career pathway. The Audubon Society of Portland focuses on bird conservation and habitat protection in the Portland metropolitan area and throughout the state. The Northwest Earth Institute develops environmental education programs and community engagement initiatives. SOLVE Oregon organizes volunteer environmental projects addressing litter, watershed health, and habitat restoration. The Oregon chapter of the Sierra Club advocates for wilderness protection and climate action.
Many Oregon environmental organizations offer environmental science internships that provide hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities. These internships often lead to permanent positions and help you understand which sector and focus area align with your career interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need to become an environmental scientist in Oregon?
Most entry-level environmental scientist positions in Oregon require at least a bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field. A master's degree opens advanced research positions, leadership roles, and specialized career paths in areas like toxicology or climate science. Some positions, particularly in government agencies or research institutions, may require or prefer candidates with graduate degrees.
How much do environmental scientists earn in Oregon?
Environmental scientists in Oregon earn an average annual salary of $95,990, with a median wage of $93,560, according to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level professionals earn around $58,560 annually, while experienced environmental scientists can earn $132,220 or more. These figures exceed the national average by more than $7,000, reflecting Oregon's strong environmental sector and cost of living.
What are the top environmental science programs in Oregon?
Oregon State University offers the most comprehensive programs with multiple degree levels and specializations, including fully online options. The University of Oregon provides strong research opportunities through specialized institutes. Oregon Tech focuses on hands-on experiential learning with field-based education. Pacific University offers focused specializations in Environmental Biology or Chemistry & Toxicology. Your best choice depends on your learning style, career goals, and whether you need campus-based or online delivery.
Are there online environmental science degree options in Oregon?
Yes, Oregon State University offers both a fully online BS in Environmental Sciences and an online MS in Environmental Sciences. Both programs provide multiple specialization tracks and maintain the same academic standards as campus-based programs. The online MS offers flexible start dates throughout the year for maximum flexibility, making it particularly suitable for working professionals or students with geographical or scheduling constraints.
What environmental organizations operate in Oregon?
Oregon hosts numerous environmental organizations, including the Environment Oregon Research & Policy Center, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (state regulatory agency), Audubon Society of Portland, Northwest Earth Institute, SOLVE Oregon, Sierra Club Oregon Chapter, and EarthShare Oregon. These organizations span research, policy, conservation, education, and direct environmental action, providing diverse career pathways and internship opportunities for environmental science graduates.
Key Takeaways
- Above-Average Salaries: Oregon environmental scientists earn an average of $95,990 annually, exceeding the national average of $88,640 by more than $7,000, with median wages of $93,560.
- Exceptional Job Growth: Oregon projects 16.2% employment growth for environmental scientists through 2032, more than double the national rate, creating approximately 120 annual job openings.
- Diverse Educational Pathways: Choose from bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs at institutions including Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Oregon Tech, and Pacific University, with fully online options available.
- Active Environmental Community: Major organizations like Environment Oregon Research & Policy Center, Oregon DEQ, and numerous conservation groups provide networking, internships, and career opportunities throughout the state.
- Unique Research Opportunities: Oregon's diverse ecosystems-from the Pacific coastline to the Cascade mountains to agricultural valleys-create exceptional hands-on research opportunities in water resources, forest ecology, climate change, and renewable energy.
Ready to start your environmental science journey in Oregon? Explore degree programs that align with your career goals and Oregon's unique environmental research opportunities.
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.
