Environmental Science is the study of the relationships among humans, other organisms, and the non-living physical environment, with an emphasis on the impacts of human activities.Technology, when used wisely, contributes to the solution of current environmental problems and the prevention of new ones. As the population and our technological advances grow, so does our impact on the world we live in. Colorado Mesa University offers an exciting Environmental Science program where students have the opportunity to learn of new technologies and solutions to challenging environmental problems.
The goal of the Environmental Science and Technology program at Colorado Mesa University is to educate our students in the science, protection, and restoration of our air, land, water, and ecosystems. Students develop a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, mathematics, statistics, and communications then apply this knowledge to the study and solution of environmental problems. Some students are taking part in working with organizations such as the Colorado National Monument and the Colorado Division of Minerals and Geology. Students have a choice of two options within the environment science program: either the Pollution Monitoring and Control option, which focuses on pollution prevention, investigation, and clean up; or students can choose the Ecosystem Restoration option, which focuses on strategies for managing natural resources. In either case students learn from hands-on experience outdoors in our diverse Colorado environment. CMU also has many clubs and organizations that can help prepare students for advanced study in their field or build campus and community connections.
• Agricultural scientist
• Agricultural technician
• Air/Water quality mgr.
• Air pollution analyst
• Biochemist
• Biologist
• Biotechnologist
• Chemical technician
• Chemist
• Civil engineer
• Conservation agent
• Conservation systems analyst
• Consumer safety inspector
• Earth scientist
• Outdoor trip leader
• Oceanographer
• Park ranger
• Soil conversation tech
• Teacher
• Ecologist
• Environmental consultant
• Environmental lawyer
• EPA inspector
• Fisheries conservationist
• Project manager
• Water/Wastewater plant operator
• Forest ranger
• Geographer
• Geologist
• Geophysicist
• Hazardous waste manger
• Hydrologist
• Industrial hygienist
• Management consultant
• Meteorologist
• Microbiologist
• Natural Resource specialist
• Occupational safety specialist
• Ocean technician
• Range manger
• Resource economist
• Seismologist
• Wildlife manager
• Zoologist
Note: Some of the occupations listed above may require additional education, experience, or training beyond a bachelor’s degree. To research these occupations use the Career Research Resources links below.
• Collect samples of gasses, soils, water, and other substances to conduct tests on pollutant levels or
identify sources of pollution.
• Record test data and prepare reports, summaries, or charts that interpret test results.
• Develop or implement programs for monitoring environmental pollution or radiation.
• Develop testing procedures or direct activities of workers in the laboratory.
• Prepare samples or photomicrographs for testing and analysis.
• Calibrates microscopes or test instruments.
• Examines and analyzes material for presence and concentration of contaminates.
• Receives, sets up, tests, or decontaminates equipment.
• Conducts pollution surveys; collecting and analyzing samples such as air and ground water.
• Performs environmental quality work in field or office settings.
• Performs laboratory work such as logging numerical and visual observations.
• Inspects facilities to monitor compliance with regulations governing substances such as asbestos,
lead, or wastewater.
• County, state, and federal environmental agencies
• Environmental research firms
• Environmental consulting firms
• Universities
• State or federal parks
• Environmental advocacy organizations
• Construction companies
• Oil companies
• Law firms
Skills Needed by Environmental Science majors:
• Attention to detail
• Computer literacy
• Technical writing skills
• Communication skills
• Work effectively in a team or alone
• Enjoy working outdoors
• Problem solving
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
Other Environmental Science resources
Reach out to CMU Career Services for resources and guidance on reaching your career goals. Career Services takes an active role in providing career exploration, workshops, events and on-campus employer visits to encourage students to investigate and gain information while creating their career path.
You can also use these sites to research information about specific occupations such as nature of the work, training or qualifications, employment or job outlook, projections, earnings and wages.
Occupational Outlook Handbook: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
The Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Use the A-Z index to select the occupation you are researching. •
- View OOH information on Archivists, Curators, and Museum Technicians
O*NET-Online: http://www.onetonline.org
The U.S. Department of Labor- In the occupational search box type in key words, job titles, or occupational codes to research various careers.
My Future.com: https://myfuture.com/
The Department of Defense
- This site compiles information from departments of Commerce, Education and Labor.
- American Water Works Association
- Cyber-Sierra
- Eco Jobs
- Environmental Career Center
- Environmental Jobs
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Society of Wetland Scientist
- Water Environment Federation
Also check specific organizations and associations, such as the ones listed above, for job opportunities.