Environmental Science Graduate Program
Environmental Science Graduate Program

Career Planning

Career Planning

two scientists looking at water samples

Demand + Growth

Environmental scientist and specialist roles are projected to grow faster than the national average over the next decade. For example, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicate that “Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health” jobs are expected to grow by ~7% over a 10‑year period. 

Growth is being driven by increasing regulatory pressure, public awareness of environmental issues (climate change, pollution), sustainability mandates by governments and corporations, and more investment in “green” infrastructure.

Career planning and preparation

The Graduate College's Career Services can assist you with resumes, cover letters, and references; offer tools to provide feedback on formatting and content; and lead mock interviews to prepare you for upcoming interviews.

Employment rates shortly after graduation tend to be strong for well-structured master’s programs. For example, one sustainability/environmental master’s program reported that ~91% of alumni found sustainability-related roles within six months 

Entry-level roles may include lower salaries, especially in non-profit or government sectors, but with experience, specialized skills (GIS, statistical modeling, remote sensing, etc.), and leadership roles, the upward mobility is significant.

pencils growing into leaves and ending in a book and graduation cap

Salary and job outlook

Median salaries for environmental scientists tend to be in the range of $70,000‑$80,000 per year for many positions, though this can vary a lot depending on sector (private, public, nonprofit), location, and level of specialization

Graduate degree holders often move into roles with more responsibility (e.g., project leadership, policy advising, specialized research, consulting) and correspondingly higher pay. 

What can you do with a graduate degree in environmental science?

Environmental Consultant

Work with companies, governments, or NGOs to assess and reduce environmental impact. Consultants often conduct site assessments, develop sustainability plans, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. This career combines science with communication and policy.

Climate Change Analyst / Policy Advisor

Analyze data on climate trends and help shape public policy at local, national, or international levels. This role may involve working with agencies like the EPA, UN, or think tanks, providing evidence-based recommendations to mitigate climate impacts.

Environmental Scientist or Ecologist (Research Focus)

Work in academia, research institutions, or government labs conducting studies on ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, or restoration. A PhD might follow, but many research roles are open to master's-level grads, especially in applied science or field-based positions.

Sustainability Manager / Corporate Environmental Strategist

Within private industry, these professionals develop and oversee corporate sustainability goals—like reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, or managing waste. Ideal for those who want to blend science with leadership and business.

Natural Resource Manager or Conservation Scientist

Manage parks, forests, wetlands, or marine environments to balance human needs with ecosystem protection. You might work for a government agency, a conservation NGO, or an international organization focused on biodiversity and land use.

Environmental Data Analyst or GIS Specialist

Use spatial data, remote sensing, and statistical tools to analyze environmental trends and make decisions about land use, pollution, or conservation. This is a high-demand area for those who enjoy combining science with tech and data visualization.

Career Development Resources