Best Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
The best environmental engineering master’s degrees explore the impacts of human activities on the environment and find ways to provide a working solution to them. They offer the advanced knowledge of pressing environmental concerns such as waste management, climate change, sustainability, and renewable energy generation. An environmental engineering master’s degree also combines different disciplines to provide a legal, economic, and social background on environmental issues.
This guide contains a list of the best environmental engineering master’s degree programs, the admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering, and high-paying environmental engineering master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
Some of the best schools to get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering are Arizona State University, Colorado State University, Drexel University, North Carolina State University, and Oregon State University.
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What Schools Offer the Best Environmental Engineering Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Colorado State University
- Drexel University
- North Carolina State University
- Oregon State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering are a bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline, Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores, letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, and proof of English proficiency for international students.
Most schools require that prospective students have a minimum GPA of 3.0 in their undergraduate degrees. International students may need to prove their proficiency in the English language by providing TOEFL or IELTS test scores. Although this requirement may be waived under special circumstances. It is advisable for candidates to research the specific admission requirements of their school of choice before they begin the admission process.
Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
- Standardized test scores (GRE)
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Proof of English proficiency
How to Get an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree
The best way to get an environmental engineering master’s degree is by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Every school has specific requirements that students must fulfill to successfully complete the program and earn the degree.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
You will need to complete between 30 and 45 credits to get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering. The number of college credits you need depends on the school and the specialization in environmental engineering. A Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering also involves a thesis at the end of the program.
Environmental Engineering Degree Requirements
- 15 units of core courses
- 9 to 12 credits of specialization courses
- 12 credits in a cognate discipline track
- 9 credits of elective courses
- Thesis
Best Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University | Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering Track | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Oregon State University | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Rice University | Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Syracuse University | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Michigan | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of North Dakota | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Environmental Engineering: Top Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering include Arizona State University, Rice University, and Syracuse University. It is important for prospective students seeking admission into an environmental engineering master’s degree program to review the best schooling options. This section contains an overview of the best schools for environmental engineering and related information, including admission requirements, tuition, and accreditation.
Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State University was founded in 1886 and is recognized by the US News & World Report as the most innovative school in the country. It provides nationally ranked programs that equip the next-generation workforce with the skills and knowledge to succeed in their careers.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
This master's degree program is offered by the School of Sustainable Engineering and Built Environment at Arizona State University. It is ranked as the 16th best environmental engineering program, according to the US News & World Report.
It is a 30-credit-hour program that provides advanced knowledge on solving environmental issues in modern society. It covers courses such as nanotechnology, biotechnology, water resources engineering, and sustainable engineering.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $1076/{unit} (in state); $1,547/{unit} (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $70
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering , or fields like environmental engineering, chemical engineering, agricultural engineering, or related fields
- Other Requirements: Three letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency
Applying to Arizona State University
- Review admission deadlines and ensure you meet the minimum admission standards.
- Complete a graduate admission application on the portal.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit copies of transcripts and other admission requirements.
- Wait for an admission decision.
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, Colorado
Colorado State University is ranked in the top one percent of the best universities in the world , according to the Center for World University Rankings. It is a top public research university in the country with a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees for students at all academic levels.
Master of Science in Civil, Environmental Engineering Track
The Master of Science in Civil Engineering program at Colorado State University covers advanced engineering specializations, including environmental engineering, wind engineering and fluid mechanics, geotechnical engineering, geoenvironmental engineering, and structural engineering. The environmental engineering specialization addresses the human and natural environments and how to protect them from hazards caused by environmental contamination.
Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering Track Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $844.11/unit (in state); $1,718/unit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 70%
Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering Track Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering or related fields
- Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, resume, three letters of recommendations, proof of English proficiency
Applying to Colorado State University
- Apply online through the Colorado State University application page.
- Fill out the application form.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit college transcripts and other admission requirements.
- Wait for an admission decision.
Drexel University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Drexel University was founded in 1891 by Anthony J. Drexel. It is a world-class research university offering experiential education. It has a total enrollment of over 23,217 students in over 200 academic programs across 15 colleges and schools.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
The Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at Drexel University offers advanced knowledge in system design, policies, and processes to provide a healthy environment for people and eliminate the impact of pollution.
It has different specializations, including air pollution, sustainability, water resources, human health risk assessment, and water and wastewater treatment. Students will gain an understanding of the forces controlling the industry and knowledge and skills to build a career in the industry.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $1,342/unit (in state and out of state)
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Other Requirements: Proof of English proficiency for non-native English speakers, resume, two letters of recommendation, personal essay
Applying to Drexel University
- Review the program’s requirements and application deadline.
- Read the application instructions.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit college transcripts and other program requirements.
- Check your application status.
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
Established in 1887, North Carolina State University is a land-grant institution that offers world-class teaching and research in hundreds of academic programs. It offers academic programs in agriculture and life sciences, design and humanities, engineering, management, and science and technology.
Masters of Science in Environmental Engineering
This master's degree program in environmental engineering focuses on theories, applications, and methods used to promote a healthy environment and minimize the impact of pollution. It offers two tracks, including environmental, water resources, and coastal engineering specializations and a water resources engineering specialization.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition and Fees: $11,700/year (in state); $30,906/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 31 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 84%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, or fields like environmental engineering, or a closely related engineering disciplines
- Other Requirements: Statement of purpose, resume, three letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency
Applying to North Carolina State University
- Choose your preferred graduate degree program.
- Review the application deadline.
- Prepare your application materials.
- Fill out the application form and submit application materials.
- Pay the application fee.
- Wait for an admission decision.
Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Oregon State University is one of the three land, space, and sea-grant universities in the US. It is a public research university with over 34,108 student enrollments in undergraduate and graduate programs.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
This master's degree program at Oregon State University teaches fundamental scientific and engineering principles to provide solutions to environmental issues in natural and engineering systems. On-campus students gain strong management, design, and analytical knowledge of biological, physical, and chemical processes.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $16,191/year (in state); $30,357/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 45 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering or related fields
- Other Requirements: Statement of objective, resume, proof of English proficiency, recommendation letters
Applying to Oregon State University
- Prospective students must create an account on the school’s application page.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit your application materials.
- Pay the application fee.
Rice University
Houston, Texas
Rice University is a private research university in Houston, Texas. It has consistently ranked in the 20 best universities in the country , according to the US News & World Report rankings. It offers a wide variety of academic programs and a residential college system that helps students develop intellectually, emotionally, and culturally.
Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering
This program was specifically developed for managers, consultants, and engineers who want to advance their knowledge and become more effective professionals in the civil and environmental engineering field. The environmental engineering track introduces students to technological innovations to reduce the effects of human activities on the environment.
Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition and Fees: $27,050/unit (in state and out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 94%
Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in any field of engineering
- Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, writing samples, proof of English proficiency
Applying to Rice University
- Find your preferred program of study and complete the online form.
- Review the admission requirements.
- Submit relevant admission documents.
- Pay the application fee.
- Wait for an admission decision.
Syracuse University
Syracuse, New York
Syracuse University was founded in 1870. It is a private, not-for-profit university offering degree programs in a variety of fields. It has 13 schools and colleges offering over 200 customizable majors and certificates.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
The Master of Science in Environmental Engineering is a 30-credit-hour program that introduces students to research opportunities in environmental chemistry, aquatic chemistry, applied microbiology, hydrology and water resources, and green infrastructure. Students will learn how to use productivity tools to solve engineering problems.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition and Fees: $1,734/unit (in state and out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering or related fields
- Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, personal statement, resume, TOEFL for international students
Applying to Syracuse University
- Go to the online application page on Syracuse University's website.
- Create an account.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit your application materials.
- Pay the application fee.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Urbana-Champaign, Illinois
Founded in 1867, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has gained a sterling reputation as a world-class institution of higher learning. It is ranked 15th on the US News & World Report’s school rankings of top schools in the country. It provides over 250 undergraduate and graduate programs for students.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
This Master of Science in Environmental Engineering program is provided by the Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It builds on the foundational knowledge of engineering and scientific principles.
It covers different aspects of environmental engineering such as air resources, environmental nanotechnology, sustainable materials management, systems ecology and ecological engineering, and water systems. Environmental engineering students can choose between the thesis or non-thesis programs.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $18,998/year (in state); $36,150/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 32 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 86%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $70
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited school
- Other Requirements: Proof of English proficiency, letters of recommendation
Applying to University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Check to make sure that you meet the minimum requirements for the program you want to pursue.
- Select your preferred program of study.
- Click the “Apply now” button and fill out the application form.
- Submit relevant admission documents.
- Pay the $70 application fee.
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is one of the first public schools in the country. It offers over 250 excellent programs in a wide range of academic fields delivered through 19 schools and colleges.
Master of Science in Engineering in Environmental Engineering
This program offers hands-on experience and collaboration with expert faculty on emerging topics such as public health, sustainability, and climate change. Students will learn how to use engineering principles and natural sciences to solve environmental problems. It has four major areas of study, including ecohydrology, sustainable energy systems, water quality and resources engineering, and water quality process engineering.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $25,230/year (in state); $50,646/year (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 93%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.3
- Standardized Tests: GRE
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree in a traditional engineering discipline
- Other Requirements: Letter of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume
Applying to University of Michigan
- Go to the University of Michigan application page.
- Create a new account.
- Fill out the application form.
- Submit your application materials.
- Pay the application fee.
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota
University of North Dakota was founded in 1883. It is the oldest and largest university in Dakota. It has a total enrollment of 13,772 students attending different graduate and undergraduate programs.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering
The Master's in Environmental Engineering at the University of North Dakota combines chemical, civil, and geological engineering knowledge. It teaches students how to satisfy the demand for food, energy, and other resources sustainably with respect to the growing world population. Students will learn how to develop new technologies to mitigate the environmental impacts of emission sources.
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition and Fees: $616/unit (in state); $889/unit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Learning Format: In-person
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%
Master of Science in Environmental Engineering Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.75
- Standardized Tests: GRE if your undergraduate degree is not ABET-accredited
- Application Fee: $35
- Minimum Education: Bachelor of Science degree from an engineering program in environmental, chemical, civil, or geological engineering
- Other Requirements: Proof of English proficiency, personal statement
Applying to University of North Dakota
- Create an online account on the University of North Dakota website.
- Complete the online application form.
- Pay the $35 application fee with a credit card or electronic check.
- Provide official transcripts and other required admission documents.
- Wait for the admission decision.
What Is an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
An environmental engineering master’s degree is a graduate engineering program that focuses on protecting people from the adverse effects of environmental challenges such as pollution and improving the quality of air, water, and soil. It involves an application of engineering and natural sciences, including chemistry, biology, and soil science, to address emerging environmental concerns and ensure environmental sustainability.
A Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering lasts between 18 and 24 months. During this period, students gain advanced skills to land a job in the industry after graduation or continue their studies by pursuing a doctorate degree .
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
A Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering is important because it provides practical, hands-on experience to create working solutions to environmental issues. Students learn how to use technology to ensure environmental sustainability. It offers specialized knowledge that students need to gain employment in federal government agencies, public interest groups, and environmental consulting firms.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Environmental Engineering?
The types of Master’s Degrees in Environmental Engineering you can get include a Master of Science and a Master of Engineering. A Master of Engineering degree focuses on building practical engineering and business management skills that engineers need to progress in higher business positions. It is usually shorter than a Master’s of Science in Environmental Engineering.
On the other hand, a Master of Science degree is research-focused and prepares students for research and development roles in the industry or to further their education in the environmental engineering field by getting a doctorate.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or a Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering?
It is better to get a Master of Science if you want to later pursue a doctoral degree or build a career in academia. A Master of Engineering is the better option for people who want to gain hands-on skills and business operations knowledge to land a job in the engineering field.
What Is the Difference Between an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree and an Environmental Engineering Certificate?
The differences between an environmental engineering master’s degree and a certificate in environmental engineering are the cost, duration of study, and credit load. An environmental engineering certificate is a special program that focuses on providing specific knowledge and skills in a given area of environmental engineering. However, a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering emphasizes a broader range of academic knowledge.
An environmental engineering certificate has a lower academic tuition fee and course load than a master’s degree. It also takes less than a year to complete.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
A Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering costs around $19,317 , according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, the cost of schooling mainly depends on the type of school, whether public or private. Prospective students seeking admission to private institutions should expect to spend as high as $27,776.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
It takes two years to get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering with a 30-credit-hour program duration. Depending on the learning pace and college credit requirements, students can complete the program between 18 and 24 months. Students will have to take eight credits per semester to graduate in two years.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
It is not very hard to get a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering. Compared to other engineering careers, this career path focuses less on advanced mathematics and physics. Instead, it incorporates ecology, biology, soil science, and other environmental concepts.
Why Should You Get an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
You should get an environmental engineering master’s degree because it provides advanced knowledge of environmental engineering concepts and valuable hands-on experience and skills. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to handle the demands of the industry or continue your education in a doctoral program.
Getting a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering can help you qualify for high-paying positions such as an environmental engineer, environmental scientist, and hydrologist, all of which are lucrative options.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Environmental Engineering?
Some of the Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering courses you will need to take are hazardous waste management, air pollution control, water sampling and analysis, and environment geostatistics. The course content of the environmental engineering master’s degree program depends on the school.
Hazardous Waste Management
The hazardous waste management course covers waste management topics, including regulation, generation, storage, classification, and disposal of contaminants. Students learn various methodologies to reduce the impact of hazardous waste.
Air Pollution Control
The air pollution control course explains the types of air pollutants and methods of controlling their emissions into the atmosphere. Students will also learn about the federal and state regulations for air pollution control.
Water Sampling and Analysis
This course introduces students to the techniques of water sampling and analysis. Students learn how to use advanced equipment in the water quality laboratory to analyze water samples and interpret the results in the context of the natural systems from which the samples were extracted.
Environment Geostatistics
This course combines topics from geography, earth science, and ecology. In this course, students will learn how to use geostatistical software to analyze spatial patterns in environmental data. It covers exploratory data analysis, modeling, and estimation.
Advanced Groundwater Hydrology
Hydrogeology is concerned with the flow of water beneath or on the surface of the earth. In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of groundwater hydraulics, groundwater-surface water relationships, and aquifer flow systems.
Continuing Education Paths for Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
The best paths to take with an environmental engineering master’s degree include pursuing a doctoral degree in environmental engineering or other related fields. The degree also provides a foundation to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Practice of Engineering exam (PE) to acquire practice licenses by the National Council for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
Related Environmental Engineering Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best environmental engineering master’s degree programs are accreditation, flexibility and format, graduation rate, employment outcomes, and specialization and concentration options.
Accreditation
Accreditation certifies that a school meets the minimum acceptable academic quality to offer academic programs. It is crucial to inquire about the accreditation status of the school before you begin the application process.
The accreditation status shows the quality of the degree. It can also influence your ability to transfer credits to another school or pursue a doctorate. Accredited degrees are also highly regarded by potential employers.
Flexibility and Format
This depends on how you want to attend the program and whether you want to enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. Prospective students who want to combine schooling with work, family, or other personal commitments need to look out for the flexibility option.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rate tracks the progress of students who enrolled in the environmental engineering master’s degree program to see if they completed the degree within the normal time for completing the program. This information can be easily found on the student’s right-to-know page on the school website. A low graduation rate is a potential red flag.
Employment Outcomes
Employment outcomes show the percentage of students that get jobs within a specific period after graduation. If your goal is to improve your employability with the environmental engineering master’s degree, you should ensure that the academic program has a favorable employment outcome value.
Specialization and Concentration
Environmental engineering degrees contain several specializations, including environmental engineering microbiology, environmental management, water and wastewater treatment, air quality, solid waste management, and emission control.
Prospective students should research the specialization or concentration options of the program to see if it contains coursework that can provide a specific area of expertise they are interested in to advance their career.
What Is the Most Affordable Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
The most affordable Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering is the Master of Science in Environmental Engineering offered by the North Carolina State University. It is a 31-credit-hour program with a tuition cost of $11,700 per year for in-state students. Overall, students will have to spend $23,400 to get an environmental engineering master’s degree from this school.
Salary and Job Outlook for Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Graduates
An environmental engineering master’s degree provides the in-demand skills to explore job opportunities in a variety of settings. It offers a well-rounded profile, signifying to potential employers that you have advanced skills to thrive in leadership roles.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with an environmental engineering master’s degree. Environmental engineers have a job outlook of four percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A Master’s Degree in Environmental Science also helps students to get a job by offering career services such as internship opportunities, collaboration with industry-experienced faculty, exceptional professors, and industry partnerships.
What’s the Average Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering is $71,000 per year , according to PayScale. However, the salary for a master’s degree holder depends on several factors such as skills, employer, job role, location, and years of experience in the industry.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an environmental engineering master’s degree are environmental engineer, environmental consultant, water and wastewater engineer, hydrologist, and engineering manager. Graduates can work in research centers, environmental consulting firms, government agencies, and wastewater treatment plants.
Environmental Engineering Degree Jobs
- Environmental Engineer
- Environmental Consultant
- Water and Wastewater Engineer
- Hydrologist
- Director of Environmental Health and Safety
Potential Careers With an Environmental Engineering Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering?
You can make between $59,525 and $116,300 per year with a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering. The salary varies depending on the industry, location, job title, and years of experience of the person.
Highest-Paying Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Director of Environmental Health and Safety | $116,381 |
| Environmental Engineer | $96,820 |
| Hydrologist | $84,030 |
| Water and Wastewater Engineer | $67,650 |
| Environmental Consultant | $59,525 |
Best Jobs for Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree Grads
This section contains a list of the best environmental engineering master’s degree jobs and related information such as annual salary, job outlook, number of jobs, and highest-paying states.
Environmental engineering master’s degree graduates have gone on to hold positions in several fields such as recycling, consulting, pipeline operations, water and air pollution control, and waste disposal.
Director of Environmental Health and Safety
Average Salary: $116,381
A director of environmental health and safety ensures organizational compliance with local, state, federal, and industry safety regulations. They inspect the workplace to eliminate or minimize biological, chemical, or radiological hazards. They also organize safety training programs for employees.
- Average Salary: $116,381
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 119,200
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, Rhode Island, Colorado, Alaska
Environmental Engineer
Average Salary: $96,820
Environmental engineers employ advanced knowledge of engineering, environmental chemistry, biology, and soil science to solve environmental problems. They develop projects that protect the environment, such as air pollution control systems and water reclamation facilities.
- Average Salary: $96,820
- Job Outlook: 4% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 52,300
- Highest-Paying States: Texas, California, Idaho, Tennessee, Connecticut
Hydrologist
Average Salary: $84,030
Hydrologists study the flow of water above and beneath the earth surface. They analyze the movement of rain, snow, groundwater, and surface water to the atmosphere or the ocean. They also research innovative ways to minimize the adverse effects of pollution, drought, erosion, or other water-related problems.
- Average Salary: $84,030
- Job Outlook: 6% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 6,500
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, California, New Hampshire, Maryland, Nevada
Water and Wastewater Engineer
Average Salary: $67,650
Water and wastewater engineers design the infrastructure and systems to treat wastewater, remove harmful materials, and return water to the ecosystem. They also develop drainage systems for stormwater and build protective structures like bridges and dams to ensure the safety of the public.
- Average Salary: $67,650
- Job Outlook: 3% job decline from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 122,100
- Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, Nevada, California, Connecticut
Environmental Consultant
Average Salary: $59,525
An environmental consultant gives advice on environmental issues for the public and industries. They carry out environmental impact assessments for proposed environmental projects and provide insights to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
- Average Salary: $59,525
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 34,200
- Highest-Paying States: Alabama, Connecticut, Washington, Nevada, Utah
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering is worth it if you have an interest in developing innovative solutions to protect the environment. It provides professional skills and specialized education to explore career opportunities and land leadership positions in the engineering field. It can also help you launch your career and provide a solid foundation for other environmental engineering graduate programs.
Additional Reading About Environmental Engineering
Environmental Engineering Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, environmental engineering is a good career. It is a field that offers opportunities to improve and save human lives. Plus it is a lucrative field with a positive job outlook. As the world looks for new ways to protect the environment, the demand for environmental engineers will increase.
Yes, there are environmental engineering master’s degree scholarships that students can access to alleviate the cost of schooling. Students in accredited schools are eligible for federal funding from the government, like the Free Application for Federal Students Aid (FAFSA). They can also research available school scholarships for environmental engineering master’s degree students.
Yes, you can study for an environmental engineering master’s degree online. Some of the schools mentioned in this article offer online graduate engineering programs for distance learners. Other
notable online colleges
are California State University, Columbia University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Florida.
Yes, there is a demand for environmental engineers. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a four percent job outlook with an increase of 1,900 new jobs between 2020 and 2030.
