Career Guide for Environmental Science Studies

Environment is the science closest to nature and takes into account its sustainable development. It may be defined as a very large field encompassing issues of pollution, waste treatment, wildlife, study of the atmosphere, et al. It interprets the impact of human actions on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and develops strategies for restoring ecosystems. The environment that we live in is in the brink of a collapse owing to the disheveled state of human proliferation . With intricacies building like never before, the world seems to have waken up to the need of the hour as the Governments and NGOs have put hands together in making this world a safe haven for future generations. Academicians and scientists feel the increasing awareness about perishable resources and importance of sustainable development has opened up the field of environment and its studies.

Courses & Eligibility:

Environmental studies are now being offered at the BSc degree level for students who have completed their +2 examination. A MSc programme can be taken up after successfully completing any Bachelor’s degree. Environmental scientists require a Master’s degree in Environmental Science or a ME in Environmental and Chemical Engineering. While NGOs generally look for a B.Sc. or a M.Sc graduate.

Career prospects:

The scope of environmental science and management has grown tremendously. Right from manufacturing pollution control equipment, sewage and effluent treatment plants, bio-medical waste, treatment to fly-ash management, there is an increasing demand for experts in all these areas. Job opportunities for a M.Sc graduate are still limited in India. But a PhD degree can enhance your career superficially . Most of the M.Sc students get placed as environmental managers or consultants with the private sectors. Many of them opt for further studies abroad. Freshers are inducted as junior research fellows in many projects. With experience in their backpack candidates can get good openings in private and public sectors. Graduates can also find job opportunities in areas such as, Industrial sector, Research and development, Forest and wildlife management, Social development, Environmentalists, Environmental journalism, Consultants etc.

Remuneration:

Remunerations in this field vary depending on the qualification and the area of work. The starting salary at the NGOs can vary between Rs 5,000 to Rs 11,000 per month. In private industries, the starting salaries range from Rs 7,500 to Rs 13,000 per month. In the research field the salary can start at approximately Rs 9,000 to Rs 12,000. Teachers are paid up to Rs 10,000 at the beginning of their career.