Environmental Engineering

Environmental Science is the study of the interaction between the biological, chemical, and physical parts of the environment. It takes a quantitative and interdisciplinary approach to examining ecosystems and covers issues such as conservation, biodiversity, soil contamination, groundwater contamination, climate change, water quality, waste management, sustainable development and natural resources, and air and noise pollution. Studies involve research, creative problem solving, activism, and responsible citizenship.

Courses and Eligibility Criteria:

Core Environmental Engineering courses include subjects such as environmental organic chemistry, surface water quality engineering, surface water quality modeling, atmospheric chemistry, environmental organic chemistry, and more.

The eligibility criterion for admissions to a bachelor’s programme is a 10+2 pass in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as core subjects. The 2-year MTech course can be pursued after successfully completing an undergraduate course. One can also take up a diploma/certificate course after completing class 10. Students must go through entrance exams such as GATE for admissions to BTech and MTech courses.

Career Prospects:

The job market for environmental science majors is increasing, especially in the private sector as public policy demands and new regulations force corporations and consulting firms to comply with environmental laws. Employment for environmental scientists is expected to grow by 25 percent in the next ten years, making it one of the fastest growing jobs.

A graduate in Environmental Engineering can be employed in municipal agencies, manufacturing and pharmaceutical companies, laboratories, universities and colleges, international firms working for environment-related projects, government agencies/ departments, and several other places where the environment is the key concern. You can work with mining engineers to develop production techniques, assist civil engineers in designing water supply and waste disposal systems, or work with chemical and nuclear engineers in waste management. Apart from jobs in government agencies such as the Central Pollution Control Board, openings in the private sector essentially lie with companies engaged in infrastructure projects with environmental consulting firms. However, the possibility of finding jobs is more in chemical manufacturing units and mines.

Remuneration:

A graduate with a BTech degree in Environmental Engineering can draw a salary of Rs. 15,000– Rs. 30,000 per month and those with a postgraduate degree can earn between Rs. 35,000 and Rs. 55,000. PhD degree holders receive around Rs. 50,000 per month. Licensed engineers may earn up to Rs. 1 lakh per month.