For those with a passion for the environment and working to protect it, you may be considering entering one of two majors. So, this major could be environmental science or environmental studies. Also, with that being said, there are some degrees out there that combine the two. Finally, you can add minors or certificates to complement one of the two majors.
Either way, environmental issues are becoming very critical nowadays. So, it’s likely that you could find work as a graduate of an environment major in a variety of areas. These include conservation, planning, policy, forestry and so much more!
What you will study
Environment majors will take a variety of courses during their major to ensure they completely grasp all the concepts associated with the environment. Fully understanding the environment requires very interdisciplinary knowledge. So, it’s likely that you’ll be taking courses in geography, earth and ocean sciences, statistics, computer science, climate science, chemistry, communications, etc. All in all, a wide range of courses are likely to be options for you environment majors out there!
The skills you’ll develop
As an environment major, many of the skills you develop will be analytical or scientific in nature. So, below are just a few of the possible skills you’ll improve upon during your undergraduate degree.
- Operating laboratory equipment
- Communication
- Critical thinking
- Research skills
- Statistical analysis
- Evaluating the validity of environmental research
- Data collection and management
- Use computer software ie. ArcGIS or Terrset
Potential careers
For those who are passionate about the environment, a wide range of career options exists in Canada. There is consulting, to forestry, to urban planning. The options are limitless. So, here are just a few sample job titles to get you started on your career research.
- Environmental engineer
- Resource manager
- Sustainability consultant
- Waste management officer
- Environmental education officer
- Water quality scientist
- Aquatic Technician
- Environmental Analyst
- Conservation Technician
- Ecologist
- Ecotourism Leader
If none of these are too appealing, don’t fear. Below, you can find a list of careers that aren’t directly connected to your major but are linked nonetheless.
Related careers
So, if the traditional environmental careers don’t interest you as much, have a look at some of the related careers. The skills you’ll be learning in your major are highly transferable, so you can switch up your career if you need to.
- Environmental health practitioner
- Estates manager
- Geotechnical engineer
- Landscape architect
- Toxicologist
- Urban planner
- Lawyer
Environment majors have a variety of options when it comes to their career. With transferable skills, environment majors can work in consulting, transfer to resource management and then transfer to another area if they so wish.
If these career titles didn’t satisfy you, there’s still more in-demand options in the green sector. Also, check out EcoCanada’s list of careers and their current levels of demand in the Canadian economy.
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