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Environmental Engineer Education
Environmental engineers use science to solve environmental problems. They deal with issues such as process engineering, environmental chemistry, pollution, waste management, recycling, and public health. They develop water treatment systems and research and analyze data. Many environmental engineers are involved with local issues. Some work as consultants with clients, helping them comply with laws and reduce environmental damage.
An environmental engineer education almost always requires a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degrees programs are designed to last four years, but many students take nearly five years to complete engineering programs. Students spend the first two years studying basic engineering, science, math, humanities, and social sciences. The next two years are spent studying advanced engineering and environmental courses.
A master’s degree may be required for research positions in the engineering field. The Association of Environmental Engineering and Science Professors has information on universities that offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in environmental engineering.
Required Courses
Environmental engineer education requires the completion of courses in the engineering field, such as math, physics, and design, along with classes in the environmental field, such as biology, geography, geology, and ecology.
Specific courses included in an environmental engineer education program may include hydrology, soil science, public health, air pollution, engineering economics, biotechnology, water and atmospheric chemistry, and toxicology. Students can also expect to take classes in computer-based design, research, statistics, humanities, and social sciences.
Employment Outlook
Environmental engineering jobs are expected to grow much faster than average: by about 31 percent over the next decade. An increase in public health concerns, plus a need to prevent environmental problems before they occur, has created higher demand for environmental engineers.
Salary can vary, based on the type of company, location, and level of education and experience. More skills and education equals higher earnings. The average annual salary for environmental engineers is $74,600, with the average salary for entry-level positions at $52,048.
