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The field of environmental engineering makes use of both science
and engineering applications in the natural world, and
encompasses a range of projects and job responsibilities.
Environmental engineers work in the industrial and research
sectors to implement various solutions to control pollution and
maximize the planet’s energy resources. Other areas of
environmental engineering include water and waste management,
land cultivation, air quality control, and urban planning.
Environmental engineering schools train students to work in a
variety of disciplines and specialize in environmental work both
domestically and abroad. The convenience of completing an
environmental engineering degree online allows students of all
ages and backgrounds to complete their education at their own
pace.
What is
Environmental Engineering?
Environmental science and engineering is the direct application of the physical
sciences, engineering, and mathematics to provide solutions for the planet.
Scientists, researchers, and environmental engineers work on finding new ways to
solve problems in the environment, and can specialize in a variety of areas
including:
An environmental engineer may also be involved in working with a city’s public
health and safety board, construction management groups, and serving as
advocates for environmental policies. Environmental engineering science and
research projects provide comprehensive data, statistics, and reports for a
variety of industry applications.
Job Description
and Responsibilities of an Environmental Engineer
An environmental engineer is often involved with a variety of job duties
including:
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Assessing the environmental conditions of a proposed project
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Applying scientific and engineering principles for evaluation of an area
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Determining agricultural capacity
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Assessing traffic and social impacts of a proposed project
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Developing mitigation measures to ensure safety
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Securing water supplies for agricultural use
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Working
with watershed teams to determine available water supply
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Designing and manufacturing combustion processes
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Collecting data and assisting in product design
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Developing improved air quality models and pollution control measures
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Improving noise pollution levels
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Working
with an environmental health and safety board on various policies and
procedures
Environmental engineering covers a wide range of studies and applications, and
professionals in the industry may work in different positions as a:
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Environmental researcher
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Environmental and urban designer
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Field planner
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Pollution control officer
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Professor of environmental engineering
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Government regulatory agency official
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Private consultant with an environmental engineering firm
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Private research firm
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Testing laboratory agent
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Environmental engineering science
Environmental
Engineering Degree Programs and Courses
Environmental engineering degree programs and courses cover a broad range of
applications and areas of study, with specific applications in the fields of:
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Air and water pollution
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Public health issues
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Hazardous waste management
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Treatment and containment of pollutants and wastewater treatment
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Regulation and development of wastewater treatment
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Acid rain and global warming effects and solutions
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Automobile emissions
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Ozone depletion
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Wildlife
protection
A bachelor’s environmental engineering degree program can provide the core
foundational courses for environmental engineering careers in a variety of
industries, but many scientists and researchers choose to pursue a master’s
environmental engineering degree program. Environmental science and engineering
programs at the master’s or Ph.D. level offer further understanding and
knowledge of practical science applications, the specific processes related to
environmental problem-solving, and even teaching opportunities as an
environmental engineering educator.
Environmental
Engineering Schools
Environmental
engineering schools are a division of the applied sciences of a college or
university, and many also offer an environmental engineering degree online.
Environmental engineering schools provide both lab and classroom instruction
where students can gain hands on experience in a variety of subjects. Course
programs may also include a fieldwork component where environmental engineering
students are required to complete a project and provide their findings and
results. The curriculum and course structure at environmental engineering
schools are concentrated on ways to find solutions to environmental problems and
help improve the environment; students gain extensive knowledge of their
specialization towards rewarding environmental engineering careers. Many
complete their studies to move into consulting or working with a private firm in
research.
Pursuing an
Environmental Engineering Degree Online
Completing an
environmental engineering degree online offers additional benefits for students
who prefer to learn independently or from a distance. Online programs are taught
with lectures, discussion groups, and online collaboration projects where
students can download their materials and study at their own pace. Many research
projects also require in depth internet research, and students can make use of
technology and direct application of their knowledge with online simulations,
labs, and lectures completed entirely over the web. Benefits of completing an
environmental engineering degree online include:
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Collaboration with instructors and students from around the world
- Access to
research materials and resources online
- Learning
specific research and analysis skills through online research and applications
- Easy access
to the semester’s curriculum, notes, and materials
- Flexibility
with scheduling; many students complete an environmental engineering degree
online while working a full- or part-time job
Job Prospects and
Employment Outlook for Environmental Engineering Careers
With the growth in sophisticated research technology and need for scientists and
researchers, the field of environmental engineering offers many opportunities
for those who complete an environmental engineering degree program. Many
companies are trying to find innovative ways to apply sustainable business
practices to their operations, and environmental engineers and technicians are
hired to develop these critical processes. Jobs for environmental engineers are
expected to grow as fast as the average as other industries. Median annual
earnings for environmental engineers and technicians were $38,550 in 2004.
Related occupations include:
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