Start Your Career in Environmental Science

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Mathematics, Science and Engineering prepares future leaders in sustainability, conservation and natural resource management.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science Environmental Science student in class

The B.S. in Environmental Science is a 120-hour degree program that integrates study in several different science fields ensuring that students have a strong foundation and broad understanding of biology, chemistry, geology, physics and meteorology. Students can expect a rigorous curriculum that spans study of the elements of the natural world and the challenges facing each, including air pollution, water quality and soil conservation.

Why Environmental Science?

As the emphasis on sustainability and corporate and social responsibility grows, so too does the demand for well-educated and ethical environmental science professionals. With their deep understanding of the natural environment and its processes and connections, environmental scientists can help steward organizations to improve their operations, lead research into emerging science, and help inform government or social policy that directly impacts quality of life for the people, animals and ecosystems.

#1

Largest Catholic university in Texas

99%

of UIW first-time freshmen received financial assistance

$24,651

The average amount of need-based scholarships and grants awarded to full-time, first-time freshmen

Your Journey. Our Mission.

Since our founding in 1881 by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, we have challenged our students to think critically, explore curiously and to leverage their God-given talents to make positive impacts on their communities and the world around them.

Career Outlook and Opportunities

In general, graduates employed in the public or private sector pursue diverse projects such as surface and ground water pollution, soil contamination from hazardous wastes, disposal of hazardous and nuclear wastes, urban development and expansion, remediation and cleanup at Superfund sites, identification of potential geological hazards and conservation of biodiversity.

A student graduating from the Environmental Science program has many career options available. Local, state, or federal agencies that deal with the protection, management, and regulation of natural resources are among the many places Environmental Studies graduates are prepared to work. Such agencies include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and other state and federal employers. Students may also find employment with private firms and companies involved with environmental consulting that includes assessment, remediation and environmental law.

Careers in the environmental science field are expected to grow by 6 percent between now and 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Earnings Potential in Environmental Science:

  • The national median wage for environmental scientists was $76,480 per year as of May 2022 .
  • The national median wage for conservation scientists and foresters was $64,420 as of May 2022.

Examples of career opportunities:

  • Conservationist
  • Environmental Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Planner
  • Environmental Protection Specialist
  • Life Scientist
  • Natural Resource Specialist
  • Researcher
Closing Quotation Mark
I will work to see each student graduate with the lowest possible debt, and secure a career that lifts their lives, the lives of their families, and the communities they serve.
Closing Quotation Mark

Dr. Thomas M. Evans

President, University of the Incarnate Word

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