Every person in every job has the power to make the world a healthier, greener place. From architects to engineers, teachers to insurance professionals, a background in sustainability is needed in every market and career. The question is: Should you get a degree in sustainability?
The number of jobs involved in sustainability planning and implementation is increasing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that wind turbine technicians and solar installers are in high demand. The two fastest growing professions In the country. But we also know that those considering educating or investing in a sustainable career have many questions. What is the job market like for this specialty? Is it major or minor? And how far can a degree in sustainability take you in today’s culture?
What is a sustainability degree?
Sustainability is an interdisciplinary major, offering either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree focused on the sustainability of environmental resources and social institutions or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree focused on the sustainable use of environmental resources. ) can take the form. Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees with a focus on sustainability have become more popular in recent years.
Students can earn a degree in Business Sustainability or focus on Environmental Science with a Sustainability minor. Alternatively, you can earn a bachelor’s degree, avoid entry-level jobs, and earn a master’s or doctoral degree before entering the job market. Earning an advanced degree provides opportunities for research, internships, and leadership training, increasing your chances of building a bigger, better, and more lucrative career.
There are many ways to create and shape the degree of sustainability to maximize profitability, job satisfaction, and environmental impact.
Job market for sustainability careers
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment will be positive for many people. sustainability career Of particular interest in the fields of social planning, environmental science, government, public health, construction, economics, technology, and design are:
- environmental scientist We strive to manage, improve, protect and maximize the use of natural resources without harming the environment. They spend a lot of time working outdoors and studying the natural environment. Indeed.com report The average base salary for an environmental scientist is $67,668 and can reach $100,118 per year.
- Environmental or industrial engineer: Environmental engineers strive to improve the environment and play an essential role in reducing and eliminating sources of pollution. Industrial engineers help eliminate wasteful activities. The average base salary for these jobs is $89,626 and can reach up to $130,000. According to Indeed.com.
- Urban planner: According to the BLS, sustainable builders and urban designers have a rapidly growing position. The job growth comes as city governments require greener buildings to combat air pollution and excessive waste. Found on Indeed.com The average base salary for a City Planner is $76,306, with a maximum salary of $112,213.
- Renewable energy experts: The BLS predicts steady growth in domestic employment. wind, solarand geothermal Energy for the near future. Renewable energy professionals and visionaries can find work at universities, nonprofit organizations, engineering design firms, utility companies, and more. Alternatively, you can work as a private consultant. Reported by Glassdoor The average salary for these positions in 2024 is $102,000 per year and can reach up to $141,000.
People with a sustainability degree can also find green jobs in general fields such as business, commerce, and communications.
- Law: With a focus on environmental law and policy, you may also specialize in climate change, food law, land use, water law, energy law, and more. Pursuing a legal career in a law firm, government agency, business, or nonprofit organization is a natural choice.
- work: From marketing to management, business strategy to design, Green MBA graduates can apply their skills to existing businesses. Or, as an entrepreneur, why not try your hand at the next big green idea, whether it’s technology, a mobile application, or even a sustainable small-town cafe? Businesses and enterprises must meet existing and evolving government regulations while maintaining long-term growth. Business-focused sustainability professionals are essential to achieving these goals.
- Politics: Every student, whether in the lower or upper echelons of government, has the potential to become the next Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. You don’t necessarily need a degree in sustainability to get there, but it’s definitely worth having. Work as a consultant, strategist, or compliance officer. Spend time in the fields. fight. Make your voice heard, or at least know how to give voice to the political masters you support.
- Journalism: Are you majoring in sustainability and minoring in journalism? If you already know the beats you want to cover, this career path will work whether you plan to freelance or work for a news organization. Earning a degree in environmental journalism allows professionals to use their position to educate, advocate, and shed light on conservation and sustainability issues. Specialized knowledge will help you further advance in this career, but a working knowledge of government regulations and industry standards is a must.
The future of sustainability careers
The most successful green professionals are adept at research and analysis, problem solving, communication, and interpersonal skills. Communicating important environmental messages requires passion and persuasion tools. Dedication to the sustainability field and all that it enables is essential.
Sustainability jobs are diverse, and as with any field, the more education and experience you have, the more impact you can have in contributing to the environment.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on January 7, 2020 and updated in December 2024.
