The Environmental Science major will allow students to learn the skills and knowledge for recovering ecosystems and solving complex environmental problems. This major is perfect for students passionate about the environment, natural resource management, or the outdoors. Students interested in this major will receive a variety of classroom and field experiences to help them develop the skills needed to become environmental scientists.

All students majoring in Environmental Science will receive a thorough understanding of the soil-water environment, environmental regulations, toxicology, environmental sampling, and restoration techniques.

Because environmental problems are complex, environmental scientists will often work with interdisciplinary teams to find solutions. In fact, many environmental consulting firms and government agencies commonly employ both scientists and engineers to work hand-in-hand on various projects (soil, surface water, groundwater, and habitat).

Students interested in Environmental Science can choose between the Soil Science or Lake and Stream Restoration options.

The job market for environmental scientists is growing. Careerbuilders.com recently projected "Environmental Scientist" as one of the top 25 jobs. In this announcement, environmental scientists were defined as individuals who measure and observe air, water and soil to identify sources of pollutants, and recommend the best ways to clean and preserve the environment.

Opportunities include positions with:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Bureau of Land Management
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Department of Environmental Control
U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service (formerly U.S. Soil Conservation Service)
Nebraska Natural Resources Commission