Environmental scientist: bachelor's in a natural science, internships, then certification for some jobs
Environmental scientists and specialists typically need a bachelor's degree in environmental science or a related field such as natural resources, biology or physical science. Internships or volunteering help; some employers prefer or require certification for the work.
For: Science students who care about clean air, water and land and like both lab and field work.
Bachelor's in environmental science or a natural science Typical
Coursework often includes chemistry, geology and physics; hydrology, waste management or environmental policy courses also help.
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Start here
High school: science and math
BLS
Environmental Scientists and Specialists — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
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About 4 years
Bachelor's in environmental science, natural resources, biology or physical science
BLS
Environmental Scientists and Specialists — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
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During college
Internship or volunteering
With an environmental science organization.
BLS
Environmental Scientists and Specialists — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
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Goal
Environmental scientist or specialist
Later: supervising technicians, project leader or program manager.
BLS
Environmental Scientists and Specialists — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
Licenses, registrations and certifications
Each one is marked: a state or federal license is the law, a registration through an employer comes with the job, and a voluntary certification is one employers may ask for.
- Work-related certification
Employer may require · Employer may require - Some employers prefer or require certification related to the work.
BLS
Environmental Scientists and Specialists — How to Become OneU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OOH)- Checked
- 21 Oct 2026
Where to go next
Every career page in this cluster: entry, license, BLS pay and outlook.
What the job is, BLS pay and job outlook, and how to become one.