Environmental Science

"Every creature is better alive than dead, men and moose and pine trees, and he who understands it aright will rather preserve its life than destroy it"

~ Henry David Thoreau

What is environmental science?
Environmental Science involves studying and finding ways to reverse the harmful effects of natural occurrences and impacts of human products on the environment. Scientists may be focused on ways to control such environmental issues as erosion, pollution, habitat and soil loss, global warming, water contamination, and protection of the rainforest, to name a few. Professionals may work in a variety of areas within environmental science including planning, education, waste management, air quality management, land and water conservation, wildlife management, parks, forests, and in environmental law.

The 61-63 credit Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program at William Paterson University is housed in the College of Science and Health. The credits are distributed in four areas as follows: I) Required Courses, II) Co-requisites in Biology, Chemistry, Math and Physics, III) Science Electives, IV) Environmental Policy Electives. Required courses include Environmental Foundations, Soils, General Geology, and Field Experience.

To learn more about the degree requirements, please visit this link:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cos/environ-sci/

Admissions information on Environmental Science is located here: http://ww2.wpunj.edu/admissions/AcademicPrograms/EnvironSci.cfm

What interests and skills do potential employers value in this career?

• Perception of structures and patterns
• Computer skills
• Good communication skills, both written and oral
• Analytical and quantitative skills
• Being able to work both in a team and independently
• Ability to analyze and organize large quantities of data
• Attention to detail
• Ability to use laboratory equipment

What types of jobs can environmental science majors get?
Work Environment:
People working within the field of environmental science have a number of options in terms of work environment. Environmental science professionals may choose to work in a government position, a large or small corporation, consulting firms, real estate development companies, law firms, architectural firms, nonprofit organizations, market research companies, colleges and universities, political action committees, hazardous waste firms, zoological parks, scientific foundations, National Park Service, marinas, and resorts. Some job titles may require further education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Possible Job Titles

In what locations and capacities have William Paterson environmental science alumni worked?

Environmental Consultant Atlantic Environmental Inc.

Environmental Education Consultant Greater Newark Conservancy

Environmental Health Specialist Passaic County Health Department

Parts Coordinator Whirlpool, Inc.

Assistant Director Stonehill Recreation Corporation

Aside from majoring in environmental science, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?
Successful students tend to seek out opportunities to enhance their qualifications through a variety of means. Within environmental science, some suggestions may include getting in planning boards and committees, volunteering at a non-profit organization, attending networking functions, joining a professional environmental organization, getting involved or becoming a leader in organizations on campus such as the New Jersey Water Watch, learning computer skills, interning or getting a part-time job in the field to gain experience, and looking into the possibility of graduate school or teacher certification.

What else can I read about environmental science?

Related Web Sites :

Environmental Information www.envirolink.org

National Association of Environmental Professionals www.naep.org

Environmental Protection Agency www.epa.org

Ecological Association of America www.esa.org

American Water Works Association www.awwa.org

Occupational Outlook www.bls.gov/oco/

Industry Information www.vault.com

Job Search and Salary information www.rileyguide.com

Occupation Information http://online.onetcenter.org

Other sources of information :

Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in environmental science. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have. Visiting the Environmental Science Department on campus may also prove valuable in addressing questions.