Why major in environmental studies? Your guide to a sustainable career

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Key takeaways about an environmental studies major

An environmental studies major combines science, policy, and social impact.
Different from environmental science, it emphasizes people + policy as much as ecology.
Top courses include sustainability, climate change, and environmental policy.
Careers range from sustainability analyst to environmental lawyer.
It’s a flexible degree with strong double major and minor options.

Thinking about majoring in environmental studies? If you care about the planet, communities, and the future, this degree might be your sweet spot.

Environmental studies major explained

An environmental studies major blends natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. You won’t just study ecosystems—you’ll also learn how laws, policies, and communities shape environmental outcomes. It’s a degree designed for people who want to solve complex environmental challenges through a mix of science, advocacy, and real-world problem solving.

Environmental studies vs. environmental science

While both deal with the environment, environmental science leans heavily on biology, chemistry, and data analysis. Environmental studies, on the other hand, combines those sciences with courses in policy, ethics, and communication. Think of it this way: if science majors collect the data, environmental studies majors figure out how to use that data to make change happen.

Key courses and specializations for environmental studies majors

Expect to take core classes like:

Sustainability studies
Climate change and society
Environmental ethics
Environmental policy

Many schools also offer tracks like global sustainability, energy and resources, or environmental justice. These help you tailor your environmental studies degree to your interests.

Common double majors and minors to pair with an evironmental studies major

Because it’s so interdisciplinary, environmental studies pairs well with majors like:

Popular minors include:

Public policy
Geography
Data analytics

Pairing your major can make you stand out to employers in areas like environmental consulting or nonprofit advocacy.

Skills I’ll build as an environmental studies major

As an environmental studies student, you’ll sharpen skills in research, critical thinking, problem solving, and communication. You’ll also learn how to bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world action—a skill employers value in government, business, and nonprofit sectors.

Top careers in environmental studies

Sustainability consultant – Work with companies to help them go green and reduce their environmental impact.
Environmental educator – Teach schools, communities, or organizations about protecting the planet.
Policy analyst – Research and influence the laws and policies that shape our environment.
Environmental lawyer – Use the law to fight for cleaner air, water, and land.
Renewable energy specialist – Build a career in solar, wind, or other clean energy fields.
Nonprofit roles – Join organizations that focus on conservation, advocacy, and education.
Urban planner – Help design eco-friendly cities and neighborhoods where people and the environment thrive together.

The great thing about environmental studies is that it opens the door to so many different career paths—you’ll have the flexibility to work in government, nonprofits, or the private sector, depending on what excites you most.

Salary potential with an environmental studies degree

Graduates in environmental studies have a wide salary range depending on their career path. Entry-level technician roles typically start in the $40,000s, while environmental scientists earn a median of about $80,000 a year. Careers like environmental engineering or geoscience can reach $100,000+, especially with experience or advanced degrees. This means you can start building a career that not only makes a difference for the planet but also offers solid long-term earning potential.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 2025

Is environmental studies right for me?

If you’re passionate about sustainability and want a career that blends science with people and policy, this degree could be a perfect fit. But if you prefer lab research and fieldwork without the social science side, environmental science might suit you better.

Notable schools for environmental studies

Many schools offer strong environmental studies programs. Some notable ones include:

Use Scout College Search to explore more schools that fit your goals.

Paying for your environmental studies degree

If you're interested in a degree in environmental studies, we have tools and resources to help. Use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals and Scholly Scholarships to find scholarships based on your skills and interests. You can also explore a range of scholarships by major, including scholarships for environmental studies majors—and easily apply for Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.