Land of opportunities

As a distinct recognised field of biology 'Environmental Science' has now become part and parcel of general vocabulary and general public awareness of the subject has increased.

Environmental science came alive as a substantive, active field of scientific investigations in 1960s and 1970s.  This was driven by the need for large scale interventions to save the planet which due to interference of human beings is on path of degradation.

Environmental scientists also work on subjects like the understanding of earth processes, evaluating alternative energy systems pollution control and mitigation, natural resource management, and the effects of global climate change. Environmental issues almost always include an interaction of physical, chemical and biological process. Environ-mental scientists bring a systematic approach to the analysis of environmental problems.  Key attributes of an effective environmental scientist include the ability to relate space and time relationships as well as quantitative analysis.

Since the Environmental Science programmes are multidisciplinary and holistic in nature, they need an in-depth knowledge on the subject.  One must possess a strong inclination and desire to build a career in environmental science.  One should also have an interest in issues related to public health and the environment.  Aspirants willing to make a career in environmental science should be self-motivated and must also have the capability to work in a team or lead a team.

Getting in

Several institutes and colleges in India, these days offer both undergraduate  and post-graduate programs in Environmental Science.  One can go for BSc or a BE degree in Environmental Science.  The minimum qualification required for this is Class XII with science subjects.  The course duration is of three years.  

You can also pursue Post Graduate courses in environmental science such as MSc in Environmental Science.  The duration of this course is two years and the minimum eligibility criterion in this regard is a BSc degree in Environmental Science or any other related science subject.  

Some institutes also offer a two-year MTech programme in envirionmental science for which BTech or BE candidates are only eligible.  

Apart from these, short-term post graduate diploma programs are also there in environmental science and environmental management.  Doctoral and post-doctoral programmes such as MPhil and PhD in Environmental Science can also be undertaken by students.

As a career this field offers immense job opportunities.  The word 'Environmental Science' incorporates within it several activities for the protection of the environment.  There are ample opportunities in the job market as environmental scientists, professors, environmental biologists, environmental modelers, environmental engineers and environmental journalists.  Also jobs directly related to degree can be:

• Environmental education officer
• Environmental manager
• Nature conservation officer
• Sustainability consultant
• Waste Management officer
• Water quality scientist

 Careers in environmental science are so varied that it is very difficult to consider them as any particular category. One can be engaged in environmental policy, planning, management in government or private sector.  Environmental lawyers may be involved in intensive desk work whereas others may be a mix of indoor and outdoor locations.  People with scientific temperament can engage themselves in remediation, sanitation companies, in manufacturing law firms, non-profit groups or environmental agencies.  Finding something worth enjoying as jobs within the broad scope of Environmental Science is not at all difficult as there are so many options.

— Inputs from Dr. Sarita Sachdeva, Prof. & Dean Research, Manav Rachna International University