Is Environmental Science Hard?
Those passionate about science and interested in environmental sustainability may find themselves considering environmental science degree programs. If you are a prospective student considering this field, you may find yourself wondering, what does an environmental scientist do? You may also be thinking, is environmental science hard? Exploring the field of environmental science and learning more about the coursework requirements for this degree program can help you decide if this is the right path for your academic and career goals.
What Is Environmental Science?
Brittanica defines environmental science as an interdisciplinary academic field that incorporates biology, chemistry, geology, and social sciences to study environmental challenges and explore the human impact on the environment. While environmental studies focus primarily on the human relationship with the environment, environmental science is a separate discipline that focuses primarily on environmental challenges and sustainable solutions. Scientists within this field use both theoretical and applied knowledge to conduct research, collect evidence, and publish findings that can help shape environmental policy at the local, national, and international levels.
What Does an Environmental Scientist Do?
Environmental science is a broad field that can have many real-world applications, giving environmental scientists the freedom and flexibility to pursue specialized opportunities that align with their personal interests in the field and their career goals. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), environmental scientists and environmental specialists often research environmental issues in an attempt to develop solutions impacting environmental or human health.
Depending on their position or the organization that they work for, environmental scientists may be required to:
Conduct Environmental Impact Assessments
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a strategic evaluation process that identifies the impact that a key project or proposal may have on the environment. Environmental scientists often collaborate with public and private organizations to conduct impact assessments and determine if a proposed project aligns with the sustainability goals of that organization. An EIA needs to take into account not only the environmental impact of a project, but also the socioeconomic, cultural, and human health impacts of a project.
Monitor Environmental Conditions
Environmental scientists often have the opportunity to work in the field to monitor environmental conditions. For example, an environmental scientist may be employed by an organization that manufactures parts in a community, and they may be responsible for monitoring pollution levels in the local environment.
Develop Sustainable Solutions for Private and Public Entities
Many private and public entities around the country and across the world are actively working to develop sustainability initiatives that will protect and improve the local environment. The BLS states that environmental scientists are often responsible for collaborating with both private and public entities to help them:
- Collect environmental data to be used for analysis.
- Analyze environmental samples.
- Develop proactive plans to address environmental challenges.
- Provide guidance about potential environmental hazards.
- Ensure that they remain in compliance with environmental guidelines and regulations.
Is Environmental Science Hard?
Environmental science is an academic discipline focusing primarily on science topics and the environment. It can be challenging to enter by its very nature, but it appeals to those who excel in the sciences and are passionate about protecting and preserving the environment.
An environmental science degree program will likely feature a rigorous academic curriculum, and sometimes students find it to be a challenging field because:
It Is a Multi-Disciplinary Major Covering a Wide Range of Topics
While other scientific fields are more focused on one academic discipline, environmental science is an interdisciplinary field that weaves components of several scientific areas into one field of study. Throughout the environmental science degree program, you will explore a variety of scientific topics, such as biology, chemistry, physics, meteorology, geology, and the social sciences. Not only does the field of environmental science require you to become familiar with scientific theories, but it also requires you to understand how applied environmental science impacts human health and the relationship that humans have with the environment.
It Features Coursework Requiring Both Fieldwork and Lab Work
Environmental science is a hands-on field of study that requires you to complete a wide range of science courses. Regardless of whether you are studying chemistry, biology, or the social sciences as part of your environmental science degree program, you will likely need to complete both fieldwork and lab work as part of your course requirements. Through fieldwork and lab work, you will develop the practical and technical scientific skills required to conduct environmental research, evaluate environmental samples, and develop actionable findings that can be used to create new and innovative solutions.
Data Analysis Plays Prominent Role in Curriculum
Britannica defines data analysis as a precise, systematic process in which data is collected, transformed, described, modeled, and interpreted to develop specific, evidence-based solutions to problems. It plays a prominent role in environmental science, as those in the field are required to use data analytics to monitor and evaluate the health of the environment, conduct research, and develop environmental solutions for organizations across all types of industries. The leading data analysis techniques are highly technical and can be challenging to master.
Benefits of Majoring in Environmental Science
While the field of environmental science is challenging at times, the hard work and effort is well worth it for those who pursue an environmental science degree. If you are considering a major in environmental science, these are some of the benefits that you will enjoy, not only during your degree program, but throughout your career.
Positive Impact on Communities Around the World
Environmental scientists can have a positive impact on the world around them. By monitoring local environmental conditions and conducting research that can expedite the development of innovative solutions, environmental scientists can protect the environment and create a healthier world for the next generation.
Opportunities to Work in Dynamic Environments
Given the fact that environmental science is a broad, multidisciplinary field, it’s not surprising that environmental scientists have the opportunity to work in a wide range of dynamic environments. Environmental scientists may work in office-based settings, in laboratory settings, or in the field. Work environments within this field vary significantly based on the organization that you work for and your specialty area.
Conclusion: Majoring in Environmental Science
It’s not uncommon for prospective students to wonder, is environmental science hard? In reality, this can be a challenging field to pursue, but it’s also a very rewarding career choice. At Unity Environmental University, we offer robust and supportive online learning programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering degree and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies degree, both of which allow you to develop expertise in the field of environmental science.
