How to Become an Environmental Engineer with Online Degrees

Suppose, you learn how to become an environmental engineer. Then, you will be on the front lines, solving global environmental problems. The increase of catastrophic climate events from record-breaking wildfires to melting ice caps and rising seas demonstrates the fragile nature of our planet. Therefore, if you are passionate about the environment, then this career is a great choice for you. If you want to be a steward of environmental change, then continue reading. Do you want to help protect the environment for future generations? Read on to learn more.

Article Navigation: What is Environmental Engineering? | History | What is an Environmental Engineer? | What Does an Environmental Engineer Do? | Skills | How to Become an Environmental Engineer | Early Coursework | Bachelor’s Degree | Master & Doctorate Degrees | Career Information | Job Outlook | Jobs | Where do They Work? | Licensure & Certification | Professional Organization | Circular Economy | Environmental Engineering & Law | FAQs | Conclusion

What is Environmental Engineering?

The field is often considered a sub-discipline of chemical and civil engineering. However, it has evolved. It now encompasses a broad range of engineering and scientific principles to maintain, improve, and protect the environment. Environmental engineering serves an important purpose. Hence the importance of environmental engineering can not be stressed enough. Its mission is to improve how humans coexist with our planet. It strives to improve how we live while also protecting the ecosystems of our planet.

Specific areas of concentration in this field include:

• Acid rain
• Air pollution
• Water pollution
• Global warming
• Hazardous wastes
• Ozone depletion
• Recycling
• Water supply
• Sanitation and prevention of water-borne diseases

Civil vs. Environmental Engineering

Environmental engineering often gets confused with civil engineering. In fact, in many universities these majors are part of the same department. Students of either degree will most likely have many of the same courses in their first years of studying. These initial courses include physics, calculus, and chemistry.

However, the difference between civil engineering and environmental engineering starts with the required coursework. Core coursework for both majors will change over time. Environmental engineering majors may take courses in water quality, microbiology, and organic chemistry. Whereas, civil engineering degrees may require classes in infrastructure or transportation systems. These classes are all preparing students for their career emphasis.

A professional environmental engineer will work with civil engineers on projects. Environmental and civil engineers solve some problems that overlap. Both may focus on natural hazards, water resources, and climate change. However, their focus will be different.

A civil engineer will solve issues regarding infrastructure. This could be through construction as well as the operation of systems. We see their work each day. In short, the buildings we use and bridges we cross wouldn’t exist without help from civil engineers. They fix issues in transportation, construction, and structures.

Environmental engineers focus more on how these systems influence the natural world around us. If a civil engineer is helping build a dam, then an environmental engineer would work to ensure that the quality of water remains healthy to drink.

History of Environmental Engineering

Environmental engineering has existed for thousands of years. However, it wasn’t until our modern era that a student could get an education in this exact field.

Some of the earliest examples of environmental design include the following achievements:

• The aqueducts of Egypt and India brought water to the cities.
• Rome advanced the technology to impressive levels of engineering with its aqueducts.
• Over 2,000 years ago, Mayans in the ancient city of Tikal in Guatemala were purifying their water with zeolite in a unique filtration system.
• The creation of London’s extensive sewage system In the mid-1850s which ended the cholera epidemic and continues to serve its 8 million residents today.

What is an Environmental Engineer?

At their core, an environmental engineer is a problem-solver and advocate for our planet. They also provide a voice for our ecosystems. These professionals care about how humans live in relation to our planet. They are creative, interpersonal, and forward-thinking.

This professional holds a minimum bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline. Moreover, this typically would be environmental, civil, or general engineering. Additionally, they have a strong background in science, mathematics, and skills in communication.

What Does an Environmental Engineer Do?

Environmental Engineers find solutions to environmental problems. They use their knowledge of chemistry, engineering, ecology, soil science, hydrology, geology, and biology to do so. They also study the impact of technology on the environment. These professionals provide solutions that maintain public health and safety. They ensure there is clean air and water and the efficient disposal of waste.

Today’s environmental engineers tackle threats to our wellbeing and our planet. For that reason, they focus on areas to avoid polluting or damaging our ecology. These include:

• Climate change
• Air pollution
• Clean water
• Sewage
• Sanitation
• Recycling
• Sustainable farming
• Waste disposal
• Public health

Duties of an Environmental Engineer

Professionals in this industry mitigate environmental hazards through prevention, control, and remediation. Therefore, components of this work include research, planning, designing, and performing activities that focus on environmental health as well as the effective use of resources. Considered a “green” career, environmental engineers study the impact of industrialization on our planet and manage the adverse effects.

Specific environmental engineer responsibilities entail:

• Land assessments for industrial, commercial, or residential sites for environmental impact if someone were to build on that site
• Use of specialized equipment to test soil, water, and air of a construction area
• Improve waste management system design
• Reclamation and disposal of air, water, and land
• Find better solutions for site cleanup on a construction site
• Evaluate current systems and design innovative ways to improve or replace the existing systems or processes
• Field observation and field sample collections
• Investigate, record, and compile reports for environmental-related complaints
• Pollution-control and waste treatment planning
• Develop guidelines for the disposal of hazardous materials
• Act as a regulatory arm for a companies compliance with waste disposal and management

Work-Life of an Environmental Engineer

Firstly, their workday may take them from the office to meetings, to construction or ecological sites for hands-on work.

A 40-hour workweek is typical. Those who manage projects often extend their workweek to complete all of the necessary tasks so others can move forward with their work.

The average day of an environmental engineer will depend greatly on their role and area of work. Entry-level engineers often work outdoors. For example, the beginning of a day may include supervising a construction site. A lot of communication via phone or email may be necessary, especially when collaborating with others. Then, they may sample the soil to look for any contamination. After that, they may report test results as a typical part of the day.

Soft Skills that will Benefit your Career

While education and experience are essential, employers seek soft skills in their candidates. Soft skills are the productive personality traits inherent in you. Most employers want an environmental engineer with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Additionally, other personal qualities that are sought after include:

• Organizational Skills

  You will be required to plan and direct projects. Being able to streamline operations for maximum efficiency and flow is crucial.

• Communication Skills

  You must be able to communicate clearly and effectively. Both written and verbal communication skills are needed.

• Active Listening Skills

  To be an effective leader, you must understand what the problem is that needs to be addressed and understand the needs of the executives, your team, government officials, and your customers or clients.

• Independent Worker

  The ability to heed direction and complete tasks on your own is paramount for an environmental engineer.

• Team Player

  You must collaborate with other agencies, superiors, and co-workers to accomplish solutions.

How to Become an Environmental Engineer

The path to how to be an environmental engineer can begin at an early age. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Complete early coursework including prerequisites or an associate's degree
2. Get a bachelor’s degree in environmental, civil, or general engineering
3. Continue education in environmental engineering with a master's or doctorate (optional)
4. Find a job & gain experience
5. Get licensed

Environmental Engineer Education Foundations

It’s important to take classes that cover the foundation of environmental engineering education. Available in high school, these include chemistry, biology, physics, and multiple levels of math like calculus. Proof of at least a year in these core subjects is necessary to apply for university programs. Gauge your level of interest and success in these subjects because this will help you find out whether this field is right for you.

Receiving high marks for these classes will be essential. A student can expect to be challenged. Grade point average (GPA) plays an important factor in college admissions. For example, the University of California Irvine has a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement from a student’s 10 and 11 grade. When applying for universities, students should plan to pay an application fee, submit an essay, and show proof of coursework completion with transcripts. Some schools require SAT and ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a resume.

It is possible to work as an environmental engineering technician with an associate’s degree in the field. For that reason, an associate degree is an excellent place to start for those who do not want to pursue a bachelor’s degree or those who want to get a feel for the work after graduating from high school.

What Education is Needed to Become an Environmental Engineer?

A bachelor’s degree in engineering is the required education to become an environmental engineer. Qualifying majors include general engineering, environmental engineering or civil engineering. These degree programs can be completed in-person or in 100% online programs.

Online degree programs in engineering have risen in popularity because they offer quality education from the convenience of your home. You can expect to take geology, physics, biology, chemistry, statistics, mathematics, and computer science courses. Students may take technical electives based on their interests, such as Air, Climate, and Energy or Sustainable Water Systems.

Accreditation

In searching for a degree program, the option of 100% online degree programs in environmental engineering allows you to find the very best program, regardless of your geographical location. You will want to ensure that your institution is certified through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

ABET accredits programs in engineering, engineering technology, computing, and applied and natural sciences.

Admission Requirements

Firstly, you must meet the engineer requirements for admission into a universities’ engineering school. Some engineering schools may require students to show proof of readiness for certain subjects.

For example, at University of Texas proof of calculus readiness is needed. This may be in the form of a SAT Math score of 620, an ACT Math score of 26, an AP calculus score of 3, or a UT Math Assessment score of 70.

Graduation & Afterwards

Engineering degree requirements for graduation vary with each institution. Generally, students must be in good standing with their school to receive a diploma. Firstly, they must complete the required credit quantity. Secondly, they have a minimum GPA at one’s respective engineering school. Upon graduation and completion of the FE exam, you can apply to become an “engineer intern” or “engineer in training.” This status is needed in order to begin the process of becoming a Professional Engineer.

Employers are more than ever seeking candidates with the expertise provided by an engineering degree.  A bachelor’s degree in engineering is the minimum required for a career in this field. Additionally, some schools offer a 5-year program that provides a graduate with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. A graduate degree opens doors to more career opportunities such as teaching, research and development, and executive-level positions within the industry.

Continuing Education: Online Master or Doctorate in Environmental Engineering

Those who have been in the field for a long time may come from related educational backgrounds such as chemical, civil, or general engineering backgrounds. On the other hand, others may have entered through a biology or field research background. Regardless, those with these backgrounds may want to consider a master’s or doctoral degree to transition into environmental engineering or advance their career in this field. A master’s degree or doctorate in environmental engineering isn’t necessary to land a job. However, a graduate degree or doctorate opens doors to more career opportunities such as teaching, research and development, and executive-level positions within the industry.

A master’s typically can be completed in one or two years. Additionally, the most affordable online master's in environmental engineering programs range from $15,000 to $29,000. That being said, a master’s in environmental engineering online can cost upwards of $65,000. Cost is as important of a factor as admission requirements when selecting the best program for your educational goals.

In contrast, a doctorate may take up to seven years to finish. Still, a PhD is recommended for engineers who have already entered the workforce who want a better paying job.

Admission Requirements

There are master’s programs and doctorate programs offered either in person or online. The environmental engineering requirements for admission to these programs will vary with each institution and degree level.

Generally for master’s, candidates will need to submit transcripts, a letter of intent, letters of recommendation, a degree with an engineering discipline from a four-year university that is accredited. GRE scores may also be required. Some schools require at least two semesters of calculus, biology, physics, and chemistry, and computer competency background.

Typically a PhD program for environmental engineering requires candidates to either possess a MS in Environmental Engineering or a related field from an ABET accredited institution with minimum 3.0 GPA. Letters of recommendation might also be obligatory.

Coursework

An environmental engineer education at a master’s degree level involves a combination of classwork and fieldwork. In addition, students can expect to sharpen their skills with a specialization. This will give them greater expertise in a certain area. For example, a grad student at University of North Dakota may take coursework to specialize in Air Pollution and Hydrogeology. It must be remembered that some programs require a student to defend a thesis at the end of their studies.

What’s more, some schools offer a 5-year program that provides a graduate with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.

In contrast, a doctorate program may involve student teaching and independent research. Ideal candidates are already working in the field. Some PhD programs require students to defend a thesis at the end of their studies. In summary, these programs reinforce and bolster knowledge gained from field experience, coursework, and previous degrees.

Careers for Environmental Engineers

Practical experience is desired in every field. With this in mind, many schools offer cooperative engineering programs that provide job experience as part of your college credits, giving you real-world experience through your education. Such a program can benefit younger workers who do not have professional job experience.

Environmental engineering majors may seek field experience opportunities through an environmental engineer internship.  This can help them narrow down career choices as well as prepare them for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Upon completion of one’s undergrad studies, it’s expected that future environmental engineers pass the FE exam. This is administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The FE exam is a computer-based test that proves a student’s knowledge in multiple subjects. Some areas included are mathematics, probability & statistics, codes of ethics, and fluid mechanics.

Upon completion of a four-year environmental engineering online degree program, then graduates can enter the workforce. Internships, school job boards, and membership to environmental engineering groups can help with this process. Another option is for students to take advantage of their universities support services. Job fairs, career counselors, as well as networking events can steer job seekers in the right direction. It’s important to realize that the amount of environmental engineering careers is expected to grow.

Employers may require students to have work experience. For that reason, environmental engineering internships would help recent graduates achieve this. Practical experience is desired in every field. In fact, many schools offer cooperative engineering programs that provide job experience as part of your college credits, giving you real-world experience through your education. Such a program can benefit younger workers who do not have professional job experience.

Environmental Engineering Jobs Entry Level

Graduates with an environmental engineering degree have an abundance of employment opportunities. Depending on one’s expertise, there are jobs available. Below are some examples of entry level environmental engineering jobs as well as the corresponding starting salary for environmental engineer roles.

• Water Resources Engineer ($46-68k per year salary)

  A bachelor’s degree in a related engineering field is needed. Customer service experience is necessary. Previous work in water treatment or related area isn’t required but is helpful.

• Wastewater Project Engineer ($85-105k per year salary)

  A bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering is required. At least two years of work experience is required (must be able to obtain a Professional Engineer (PE) license within two years.

• Environmental Remediation Engineer ($58-73k per year salary)

  A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related discipline is required. However, a master’s degree is helpful. Additionally, the diploma received must be eligible for a future Professional Engineer (PE) license. Two or fewer years of work experience is also suggested. Proof of coursework in chemistry, physics, fluid mechanics, plant design and data collection is certainly beneficial.

• Environmental Engineering Consultant ($70-80k per year salary)

  A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field is required. Knowledge of air emissions and environmental regulations are also necessary.

• Environmental Compliance Specialist ($46k per year salary)

  A bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or a related field is required. However, previous experience isn’t required but is helpful for employment consideration.

Environmental Engineer Career Outlook & Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for 2020 – 2030 is predicted to be as fast as average with 4% growth. Nearly 44,000 people are working in the field. In fact, an estimated 3,400 openings for environmental engineers will become available each year over the next ten years. This would be due to retirements or other reasons why employees leave their jobs.

The states with the highest demand for environmental engineers in 2021 were California, New York, Texas, Colorado, and Pennsylvania. At the present time, these states had the largest employment level for people working in this field.

It’s important to realize that as our use of technology increases, the demand for environmental engineers will increase as well.

How Much Does an Environmental Engineer Make?

According to the BLS, the average salary of an environmental engineer in 2021 was close to $97,000 per year. This is more than double the average mean wage for all jobs. New graduates can expect to have an environmental engineering salary of $59,000, while those with experience and expertise garner more than $153,000. The federal government pays the highest wages, followed by private engineering firms. Local and state governments pay the least.

Environmental Engineering Jobs

Coursework for environmental engineers includes math, science, and engineering classes. The broad scope within the industry leads to a wide variety of job titles to explore in your career. Graduates can choose from many paths such as research and teaching in higher education, engineering consulting, regulatory positions in industry and government, and health and safety management within corporations.

Types of Environmental Engineering Jobs

Some other standard job titles are:

• Air Pollution Control Engineer
• Environmental Health and Safety Manager
• Environmental Engineer
• Hazardous Substances Engineer
• Water Treatment Plant Operator
• Environmental Scientist
• Sanitary Engineer

Where do Environmental Engineers Work?

The work settings of environmental engineers can vary widely. On one hand, some may work remotely, designing and planning solutions to ecological issues. On the other hand, others may collaborate with urban and regional planners, government agencies, or engineers in related fields to address environmental problems.

Employment opportunities include government services, manufacturing, construction, environmental safety, as well as healthcare.

Requirements Beyond a Degree: Licensure & Certification

Your online bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering can land you an entry-level job. However, you will need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam at the start of your career.

After which, you need to pass the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. However, this level of certification is only available after four years of working as an engineer. The PE is a rigorous assessment of your knowledge of engineering principles. Holding the Professional Engineer title will open doors for you as well as lead to higher wages.

For eligibility, applicants must hold an environmental engineering degree online from a four-year engineering program. In addition, the program must be accredited. They must pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), possess a minimum of four year’s work experience in the industry, as well as pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.

This process begins upon graduation of a four-year degree program. Graduates first need to apply for “engineer intern” status or “engineer in training” status. Afterwards they need to work under a professional engineer for four years. During this time they must understand the requirements of licensure in their state. Finally, they prepare for and take the PE exam. Preparation materials can be found on the NCEES website.

Join a Professional Environmental Engineering Organization (Recommended)

Once you have graduated or even before, you can join an environmental engineering organization. Groups like the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) offer networking opportunities, workshops, and employment resources. All in all, students and graduates can benefit with membership.

Environmental engineers can become members of numerous professional organizations. Depending on their area of expertise, there exists a multitude of communities to grow one’s network. In short, joining a professional organization has plenty of benefits. Firstly, it expands your professional network. Secondly, it keeps you in the know about industry trends. Thirdly, members gain more knowledge through sharing research results. A handful of such organizations include:

• The American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES)

  This nonprofit strives to support the of environmental engineers. It is a worldwide community for exceptional professionals in the industry. This organization offers webinars, workshops, employment resources, and periodicals. Members who qualify can apply to become a Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE). Applicants need at least eight years of professional experience and must be a licensed professional engineer.

• The American Geophysical Union (AGU)

  A non-profit created in 1919, this is a global community for people in the Earth and space sciences sector. It supports both advocates and professionals. Its goal is to share knowledge and find solutions to problems facing our planet.

• The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)

  This worldwide organization is a non-profit with over 12,000 members. Its mission is to serve engineering students, educators, and professionals. This group advocates for improved engineering education. Additionally, members received access to workshops, conferences, and professional interest groups.

• The American Water Works Association (AWWA)

  This is one of the largest nonprofits who’s sole focus is the treatment of water. They help find solutions to problems like public health, protecting the environment, and boosting quality of life. Members receive access to career development resources and training. They also provide valuable publications for multiple career fields, including environmental engineering.

• The International Society for Soil Mechanic and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE)

  This global organization consists of 90 member societies. They represent the interest of professionals who work in engineering, education, or as contractors. Membership includes access to meetings, industry news, and a worldwide network.

The Future of Environmental Engineering & Circular Economy

We can no longer think about solving one environmental — or societal — challenge in a vacuum. We really have to think about things from a transdisciplinary perspective.
-Melissa Bilec, co-director at the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation.

Addressing the impact of industrial waste management, and land and resource development creates the need to develop solutions. In essence, an environmental engineer finds the solutions that benefit the planet and human health and safety.

The ideals of a circular economy are gaining traction, especially in environmental engineering.

What is a Circular Economy?

This economic system deals with how we manage resources during and after consumption. The key concepts of circular economy involve waste elimination, the end to pollution, the circulation of materials, and nature regeneration. Rather than throwing resources away after use (linear), the focus is to reuse them. This economic model has waste being returned to the economy.

Businesses and industries see the financial and image benefits from taking this approach. As more companies decide to focus on sustainability, new technology for this initiative will be needed. For this reason, experts like environmental engineers will play a big role in this process. This trend is opening doors to environmental engineers. Environmental engineers can lead the way in sustainable engineering through their knowledge and interest in a holistic approach to ecological problems.

Climate change and population growth have sparked greater investment into the circular economy. Since our planet has finite resources, sustainable development is needed. Environmental engineers will help companies achieve these goals.

The top 10 benefits of a circular economy approach:

1. Save business, customers, and suppliers money
2. Capture more value from material and resources
3. Develop new markets and gain new customers
4. Build loyalty with your customer base
5. Satisfy changing customer needs and expectations
6. Increase the security and price stability of your supply chain
7. Attract, retain, and engage your employees through green values
8. Build your brand and reputation as an innovative organization
9. Exceed government regulations and stay ahead of new requirements
10. Provide more return and lower risk to your investors

Beyond Environmental Engineering

Those who want to combine their love and respect of the law with their love and respect for the planet can choose to focus on environmental engineering law. This profession requires degrees in both environmental engineering and law. Licensure through both the American Bar Association (through passing the bar exam) and graduating with a degree in environmental engineering from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) are components of working in environmental engineering law.

Duties within the field of environmental engineering law, according to Onet, include:

• Provide technical support for environmental remediation or litigation projects, including remediation system design or determination of regulatory applicability.
• Collaborate with environmental scientists, planners, hazardous-waste technicians, engineers, lar or business experts, or other specialists to address environmental problems.
• Assess the existing or potential environmental impact of land use projects on air, water, or land.
• Advise corporations or government agencies of procedures to follow in cleaning up contaminated sites to protect people and the environment.
• Inspect industrial or municipal facilities or programs to evaluate operational effectiveness or ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

FAQs

Should I be an environmental engineer?

Do you care about the health of our planet? Do you want to improve the way people live? Are you curious? Do you enjoy solving real-world problems? If you said yes to these questions then you should consider environmental engineering as a career. This profession will make you an advocate for humans and our planet. It can be challenging but demand is high, the pay can be generous, and your work will result in positive change in our society.

How long does it take to get a degree in environmental engineering?

The journey towards a degree in environmental engineering can vary in duration. Online and in-person degrees can take the same amount of time to complete. It typically takes four years to finish an undergrad program. Students who are enrolled part-time will take longer. Most master’s degrees can be completed in one to two years.

Is environmental engineering a good career?

Environmental engineers are valuable assets to our society. Graduates can expect high demand for their expertise. There is a 4% projected job-growth outlook in the next ten years. This figure equates to 1,800 environmental engineer jobs that are estimated to open up. As stewards for positive change, their work helps protect future generations.

What can you do with an environmental engineering degree?

Degree recipients may choose to continue their studies with a master’s degree. An undergrad degree opens the door to multiple graduate programs. These programs may be for environmental or civil engineering. An undergrad degree makes them eligible for entry-level environmental engineering jobs.

Graduates can become a licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Requirements for licensure are a degree from a four-year program, at least four years of work experience, and the completion of two exams.

Is environmental engineering worth it?

Yes! This career has many benefits. People who work in this field make a positive impact for our planet. They provide solutions to important issues. The fruits of an environmental engineer’s labor makes this career worth it. There is a sense of accomplishment when we have drinkable water, clean air, and flourishing ecosystems. Additionally, they receive high pay for their work. In 2021, the median environmental engineer salary is $96,820.

Find an Online Environmental Engineering Program Today!

Suppose you want to make a difference with your work and are comfortable with math and science. In that case, environmental engineering may be the right career path for you. After earning a bachelor’s or master’s of science degree, the possibilities for your career range from government regulatory work to hazardous waste management to pollution control and more.

As technology advances and increases the impact on our natural environment, the importance of combating climate change and protecting our planet takes center stage. Therefore, the demand for environmental engineers in “green” careers will increase. Areas that will see growth are green buildings, renewable energies, water conservation and recycling, composting, and sustainable systems.

Humans are very adaptable: we can still fix this. But the opportunity to do so will not last for long. We must start today. We have no more excuses.
-Greta Thunberg, environmental activist