Learn to Address Environmental Issues Head-On

Earth matters. A changing environment needs highly educated people who can address both scientific and societal challenges. Nova Southeastern University’s B.S. in Environmental Science program prepares you to help solve the problems created by the impact of human activity on the environment. You’ll gain a comprehensive knowledge of earth’s physical, chemical and biotic systems.

Field studies. Internships. Visits to local ecosystems. NSU is located in an epicenter of biodiversity and development. You’ll experience biology and sociology come alive as you work towards finding solutions to local and global problems. In addition to courses in Everglades ecology, chemistry, and environmental law, you can explore electives that delve into cell biology, biodiversity and geographical information systems.

Why Should You Major in Environmental Science at NSU?

Start Your Career in Government and Nonprofit Agencies

With your environmental science degree you’ll be prepared for a number of career opportunities, including everything from analyzing data in an office or laboratory to gathering air and water samples on the field. You can work in non-profit organizations, private and governmental sectors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that jobs for environmental scientists and specialists will grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average rate. No matter what path you choose to follow, a career in environmental science helps you make a difference and gain expertise in something that matters to everyone—our world

Learn more about Career Preparation

Average Starting Salary

According to a 2020 report from PayScale.com, graduates with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science make an average of $59,750 per year.

Shark Destinations

You’ll find NSU environmental science alumni at companies like Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, U.S. Geological Survey, Broward County Board of County Commissioners, Jungle Queen and New York State Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation. They hold titles such as Naturalist, Hydrologic Technician, Research Associate, Environmental Educator and Environmental Scientist. *

*Data provided by NSU’s Office of Career Development

During your undergraduate years, you’ll have a number of hands-on opportunities to gain real world experience through field studies. These include opportunities to promote environmental awareness and build skills that will be useful in future professional and graduate environmental studies.

Additionally, environmental science majors are required to complete an internship before completing the program. Internships are matched to your interests and serve as a capstone to your studies.

NSU students enjoy internships at organizations like:

  • Zoo Miami
  • Marine Environmental Center at the Carpenter House
  • Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
  • Broward County Board of County Commissioners
  • South Florida Water Management District
  • Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF)
  • Frost Science Center
  • Broward County Port Everglades
  • National Association of Underwater Instructors
  • Nova Blance Foreman Elementary School
  • Flamingo Gardens

Reserve your seat in one of NSU’s graduate or professional schools while you earn your bachelor’s degree. With NSU’s Dual Admission program, you don’t have to worry about competing with thousands of other students for a spot in a highly selective graduate program. This Premier Program gives you an opportunity to get a head start on your career, so you can start earning sooner.

Dual Admission Programs

Your NSU professors are dedicated to ensuring that you have a great academic experience. They regularly review the curriculum to make updates that give you an edge in today’s ever-changing world. As an NSU Environmental Science major, some sample courses that you could take include Organic Chemistry, Vertebrate Zoology, Geography of Natural Resources, Plankton Ecology and Food Web Dynamics. Visit the B.S. in Environmental Science curriculum to view detailed course descriptions and plans of study.

View Curriculum

Integrating minors across the arts and science curricula allows NSU's Halmos College undergraduates to be creative and critical thinkers through their diverse learning experiences. You’ll gain fresh perspectives by thinking experientially as well as experimentally.