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What is Environmental Biology?

Environmental Biology degree is an interdisciplinary branch of biology emphasizing the study of the environment and associated solutions to environmental issues. Environmental Biology fuses biological sciences with information sciences and physical sciences to provide an integrated, quantitative, and multifaceted approach to the environment.

The study of Environmental Biology includes academic disciplines that include the following:

Atmospheric Science Ecology Zoology
Geodesy Biology Oceanography
Soil Science Chemistry Mineralogy
Geology Physics Limnology

 

Trained environmental biologists will often take a systems approach to solving complex problems.  Breaking down problems into their respective components to better see the relevant environmental issues at hand.  Frequently, problems have overlapping chemical, physical, and biological properties.  Such overlapping elements can provide biologists with an archetype to a viable solution.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$77,830

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

52.38%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

35,110

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Environmental Biology Degree

University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) is recognized as one of the greatest institutions of higher learning and research in the United States. The university fosters a modern liberal arts curriculum allowing students to explore more topics and subjects of study. Penn offers an interdisciplinary approach to learning for undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. The university fosters a policy that allows undergraduate students to access courses at all of Penn's undergraduate and graduate schools. The Department of Earth & Environmental Science offers courses on geology, physics, chemistry, biology and mathematics. The department provides classroom learning and laboratory practices. It also gives students the opportunity to conduct independent research. Penn boasts its long list of acclaimed alumni including several Nobel Prize Winners. 

Acceptance Rate

7.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Dartmouth College (Hanover, NH) operates as a non-profit private school. It follows a liberal arts curriculum giving students more areas of study. The college has been described as "arts-and-sciences focused" by the  Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. It is also recognized as the smallest Ivy League university. Some of the majors offered are focused on humanities, English, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. A degree in environmental Biology is offered as an undergraduate major and minor. Undergraduates who take the program as a major can modify the courses offered into other science disciplines such as biology, geography, government, economics, and earth sciences. Dartmouth is consistently included among the highest-ranked universities in the United States.

Acceptance Rate

7.93

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Barnard College (New York, NY) is a private liberal arts college focused on providing undergraduate education. Students may pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science which provides joint programs and other degrees with Columbia University, Juilliard School, and The Jewish Theological Seminary. Some of the popular majors in Barnard are history, psychology, biological sciences, neuroscience, and computer science. A degree in Environmental Biology is an undergraduate major that offers a wide range of courses that prepare students to be skilled professionals. Students are required to conduct a Senior Thesis on Biology or Environmental Science. The college is known to be the most selective women’s college in the United States. 

Acceptance Rate

11.77

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

 Washington University in St Louis (Saint Louis, MO) is a private research university founded in 1853. The school has a wide range of areas of study offered by seven graduate and undergraduate schools. The World Report rankings included WUSTL among the top 50 universities in the world for its undergraduate programs. Environmental Biology is an undergraduate major that allows students to learn a wide range of related courses. It also offers interdisciplinary courses. Graduates of this program can assume roles across different industries. Student life and experience in the university is also considered one of the best according to some publications.  

Acceptance Rate

13.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Georgetown University (Washington, DC) is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher education in the United States, however, the university is managed independently from church. Georgetown offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. The university exposes its students to a variety of learning experiences. Environmental Biology degree is a “liberal science” major. Undergraduate students are allowed to design their courses of study providing more opportunities of learning. Environmental Biology is an undergraduate program that provides a strong foundation on population, whole organism, evolutionary biology and environmental science. Study abroad programs are also available in Georgetown. 

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Boston University (Boston, MA) is a notable private institution that offers quality education. The university is consistently ranking locally and internationally for its academic programs, services, and research activities. The university offers 250 degree programs across 17 schools and colleges. BU maintains small class sizes allowing more hands-on and focused learning. BU offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Earth & Environmental Sciences. The BA program offers a broad and strong foundation in understanding of concepts and research techniques in the physical, life, and interdisciplinary natural sciences. Undergraduates who complete this program are allowed to assume entry-level employment in a variety of professions. The university has a diverse student population; from across the United States and several foreign countries. BU has a long list of notable alumni in journalism, science, entertainment, and many more.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Providence College (Providence, RI) is a private Catholic college focused on providing undergraduate education. Popular majors in the university are liberal arts and business. Environmental Biology is an undergraduate course in the college. The course is focused on teaching students about fundamental properties of mass and energy flow through ecosystems. The course is offered to both Biology and non-science majors. The Biology major program at Providence leads to either a BA or a BS degree. 

Acceptance Rate

47.46

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

University of Washington - Seattle Campus (Seattle, WA) a premier public research university and considered the largest college in the northwestern region of the country. The university is organized into 18 schools and colleges. UW has over 250 academic programs for undergraduate and graduate studies. The university is also UW notable for its commitment to environmental stewardship. The Environmental Biology degree is an undergraduate minor for BA programs. The minor program provides courses that discuss natural sciences, social sciences, and policy in a problem-solving context. The College of the Environment also offers several graduate programs for interested students. 

Acceptance Rate

51.76

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Baylor University (Waco, TX) is a private university that offers a wide range of program options for students to choose from. The university is affiliated with the Baptist Church and it is evident with its program curriculums. Baylor University is ranking among the Best Colleges in the United States. The university offers several academic programs in Environment. It is offered in both graduate and undergraduate levels. BA in Environmental Biology is one of the programs. Undergraduates have opportunities for internships, research, and pre-professional training. 

Acceptance Rate

45.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Whitman College (Walla Walla, WA) is recognized as one of the best liberal arts colleges in the United States. It also ranked 16th on Forbes' America's Best Colleges list. It offers 40 major programs for students to choose from. Whitman College focuses on providing undergraduate education offering a variety of learning opportunities for students. The college is known for its strong science programs. Some of its popular programs are biology, psychology, and economics. Environmental Biology major offers students a broad knowledge on how to examine the connections between humans and nature. Students may choose one area of concentration. These concentrations are under environmental humanities, sciences, or social sciences, including biology. It also has combined programs in conjunction with several institutions and universities throughout the United States. 

Acceptance Rate

55.92

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Texas A & M University-College Station (College Station, TX) is a public research university that initially offered classical studies, languages, literature, and applied mathematics. Today, A & M is known for providing programs on agriculture, environmental biology, marine sciences, and alike. The university has a long list of undergraduate programs and over 130 graduate programs. The university offers a BS in Bioenvironmental Sciences program. Students are prepared to address environmental issues through innovative and technologically intensive solutions. Students are also encouraged to take technical electives to further enhance knowledge about the program. A & M is also highly recognized for being a highly active research university. It also holds the second largest student population in the United States. Texas A & M also manages campuses in Galveston and Qatar. 

Acceptance Rate

57.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

University of La Verne (La Verne, CA) is a private nonprofit university offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The university expands into four colleges, an online school for adults, military centers, and regional campus administrations. Classes are often taught at campuses across the greater Los Angeles area. Biology is an undergraduate major and minor program. Students are taught through theories and practical applications of the principles of the subject. The university manages several research facilities giving students the opportunity to pursue research together with a faculty. 

Acceptance Rate

54.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

California State Polytechnic University - Pomona (Pomona, CA) is one of the two "Polytechnic" universities in the California State University System. CPP is known for its project-based approach in learning and learn-by-doing coursework. The polytechnic university offers more than 100 fields of study covering undergraduate majors, graduate programs, and professional or vocational courses. Environmental Biology is an undergraduate major that leads to a BS degree. Students under this program are trained to solve environmental problems. Students are also allowed to specialize under this program. They may choose between Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity and Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology. CPP is among America’s Best College list by Forbes magazine. 

Acceptance Rate

54.59

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

Sewanee - The University of the South (Sewanee, TN) is a private liberal arts college that focuses on its undergraduate education. The university offers a variety of academic disciplines to students. Programs are designed to develop the skills of the students and prepare them for employment or graduate education. It values its Protestant Episcopal Church affiliation which is evident in its curriculum and daily activities. The Sewanee's Integrated Program in the Environment is a collection of environmental programs. It has six major and six minor programs, and one certificate program. Biology is one of the major tracks, offering laboratory and field courses. The program is considered rigorous allowing graduates to be successful across different industries. 

Acceptance Rate

66.71

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

SUNY College at Brockport (Brockport, NY) is one of the university centers in the State University of New York (SUNY) system. Brockport has a liberal arts curriculum allowing students to explore more topics and fields of study. Business, health and clinical profession, education, and literature are some of the programs offered in the college. Environmental Biology Studies is a minor program at Brockport.  It exposes students to a wide range of perspectives regarding environmental issues. The program is designed for science and non-science majors. The college has a long list of award-winning and notable alumni. 

Acceptance Rate

54.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) is a public research university and served as a model for future land grant schools in the United States. It was founded as the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, a higher institution that pioneered in teaching scientific agriculture. MSU has expanded and now offers a wide range of academic programs. BS in Environmental Biology and Zoology is offering a mixture of basic and applied science courses. The program is focused on animal-related aspects of environmental biology. It is also offering top notch graduate programs. The university is one of the largest universities in the country. 

Acceptance Rate

71.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

University of Dayton (Dayton, OH) is a private Catholic university. The university is the second-largest university in the state. UD offers 80 academic programs that explore a wide range of academic disciplines. The university has bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. The Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Biology trains students with interdisciplinary skills, allowing them to become directly involved in solving today’s environmental issues. Courses provide theoretical and scientific knowledge as well as hands-on training. UD also has international exposure. It offers study abroad programs and intercultural service-learning opportunities for students. 

Acceptance Rate

72.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (Syracuse, NY) is one of the university centers in the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is a specialized institution focused on the understanding, management, and sustainability of the environment and natural resources. It is also a doctoral-degree granting institution with high research activity. The Environmental biology program leads to a BS degree. The program is the broadest of biology majors at ESF. It also offers a large number of elective credit allowing students to gain further knowledge that can help them in learning this program. 

Acceptance Rate

69.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Fresno Pacific University (Fresno, CA) is a Christian university that offers academic programs in both undergraduate and graduate levels. The university offers Biology as a major. It allows students to choose an area of specialization under this program. Students can choose among Environmental biology, Human Health, Secondary Teaching, or an Individualized emphasis. Students are also encouraged to participate on off-campus summer and study abroad programs. Another thing that makes this program unique is it can be taken within three years instead of the traditional four years. 

Acceptance Rate

66.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Arcadia University (Glenside, PA) is a private university that offers more than 80 fields of study. The university grants both undergraduate and graduate levels of education. International and study abroad programs are also offered to interested students. The Department of Environmental Biology offers a range of programs including pre-professional programs. Biology major students can expect having a strong foundation on general biology as well as other related programs. Students are also exposed to laboratory courses as well as research. Undergraduates have the opportunity to complete internships or independent research projects across several internationally recognized institutions. 

Acceptance Rate

65.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Northwestern College (Orange City, IA) is a private Christian liberal arts college that is focused on providing undergraduate education. NWC also has a growing graduate school, offering some master’s degree programs. Business, education, nursing and social work programs are some of the popular offerings in NWC. Biology at NWC offers major tracks:  ecological science; genetics, molecular biology and cellular biology; and health professions. It also has pre-professional programs and teaching endorsements. The college is also recognized as one of America’s Best Colleges. NWC also offers service programs, internships, and musical and athletic opportunities for the students. 

Acceptance Rate

69.52

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Hood College (Frederick, MD) is a private college that offers undergraduate majors, master’s programs, and post-baccalaureate certificates. The college is consistently ranking as the Best University in the Northeast according to the U.S. News & World Report. The college offers an Environmental Biology Master's degree that is focused on understanding and addressing environmental issues. Graduates will be equipped with my skills sets fit to assume roles as environmental professionals and educators. 

Acceptance Rate

65.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Monmouth University (West Long Branch, NJ) is a private university granting undergraduate and graduate levels of education. The Department of Biology offers an Environmental Biology minor and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology and Policy.  This BS program is for students who are interested in nature and environment and aims to be scientists and managers in the industry. The major also allows students to gain a strong foundation for a multidisciplinary program. 

Acceptance Rate

76.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Daemen College (Amherst, NY) is a private university that offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Some of the popular majors in the college are business, healthcare and education. Biology grants bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The program also offers an environmental biology studies major or minor. The specialization is also offered to students who take up History and Political Science. Graduates of the BS Biology program can assume roles across a wide range of industries. 

Acceptance Rate

61.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Houghton College (Houghton, NY) is a private liberal arts college. It is affiliated with the Wesleyan Church and fosters Christian values. It offers undergraduate programs both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees. There are a few graduate degrees offered through the Greatbatch School of Music. A major in biology with environmental emphasis is offered to students who are interested to assume careers in environmental education, research and analysis, or pursue graduate studies. The program is centered on emphasizing Christian stewardship of Creation as well as environmental awareness and analysis. Graduates are eligible to take the conservation biologist examination administered by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. 

Acceptance Rate

80.7

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Best Environmental Biology Majors

The degree programs for students considering a path in environmental biology are broad. Degrees span from undergraduate to graduate and from online to classroom-based programs. To help you make the most of your research, we combined a summary of programs with colleges offering degrees in one location.

This will allow you to quickly connect with accredited programs through our proprietary portal without spending weeks researching each schools website to determine if they have a specific degree program.

Environmental Biology Bachelor's Degrees

Online bachelor degrees or on-site degrees in environmental biology are conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS). Bachelor science environmental biology degrees are 4-year programs for full-time students. Degrees at this level will blend liberal arts classes such as communications, philosophy, psychology, history, and creative writing with core classes. By blending both types of learning into a singular program, students have a holistic set of thinking skills to help them better process the world around them.

Core classes in environmental biology are not replicated from school to school; however, there are several classes that will overlap. Examples of classes found in an environmental biology program include:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Calculus
  • Genetics
  • Physics of Life
  • Ecology
  • Global Environment
  • Probability and Statistics
  • Cell Biology
  • Evolution
  • Diversity of Life
  • Global Environment

Environmental Biology Master's Degrees

A masters degree in environmental biology can be conferred as either a Master of Professional Studies (MPS) or Master of Science (MS). Graduate schools will provide two different approaches for students: self-directed or predetermined.

Self-directed programs allow students to construct a set of courses towards a degree with the help of an academic advisor. This path allows environmental biology majors to customize a degree program based on specific areas of interest or targeted job after graduation. The other path is a set of curricula is determined in advance by the college or university.

Either path has pros and cons the challenge for you is to determine which makes the most sense given your professional goals and personal objectives. The MPS and MS degree will take 1-2 years to complete for full-time students including a mandated thesis project.

PhD in Environmental Biology

A doctorate degree in environmental biology is conferred as a PhD. The PhD degree is known as a terminal degree in academia as no additional degrees are conferred beyond this degree. PhD programs take 3-5 years to complete depending on the students course load, program requirements, and time invested in the dissertation project. Areas of specialization within this field of study can include the following tracks:

  • Endangered Species
  • Global Climate Change
  • Conservation Education
  • Ecological Monitoring
  • Wetland Ecosystems
  • Conservation Genetics
  • Behavioral Ecology
  • Harvest Management
  • Tropical Ecology
  • Restoration Ecology
  • Habitat Fragmentation
  • Exotic Species Biology
  • Forest Management

Environmental Biology Research Job Opportunities

Earning a college degree in environmental biology provide students with a solid science foundation along with deep analytical skills. The jobs available for consideration for qualified graduates in environmental biology are seemingly limitless. Environmental jobs include the anticipated environmental biology or environmental policy careers. In addition, you may be interested in pursuing careers utilizing your core skills outside environmental biology. Examples of overlapping careers include teaching biology in high school, research analyst, post-secondary teacher, genomics specialist, immunologist, biology technician, toxicologist, medical scientist, virologist, bioengineer, food scientist, microbiologist, and epidemiologist.

What Can I Do with a Degree in Environmental Biology?

Students earning a degree in this field of study can find themselves working for a variety of entities. From state government agencies to biotech research firms, the number of organizations is vast. High level jobs that many students move into after graduation include the following:

  • Administrators
  • Policymakers
  • Research Specialist
  • Watershed Manager
  • Teacher
  • Speaker
  • Author
  • Political Activist
  • Estuary Specialist
  • Restoration Director
  • Wildlife Biologist
  • Project Manager
  • Consultant

Environmental Biology Salary & Career Opportunities

Environmental biologist salary numbers currently average $69,400 a year which translates to $33.37 an hour. The bottom twenty-five percent earn approximately fifty-five thousand dollars while the top 25% earn $92,660 a year on average. The top employers of environmental biologists include federal government agencies, scientific consulting firms, local government, engineering firms, and private corporations.

Job growth for environmental biology majors is well above average. In fact, both direct and indirect job functions are trending well above the national average of six percent. For example, the rate of employment growth for an environmental biologist for the coming decade is expected to rise 11% and a rapid 23% for biomedical engineers.

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