How to become an environmental scientist
Protect the environment by researching and advising on flora, fauna and natural resources.
Pathways to this career
Complete an undergraduate degree in environmental studies or applied science with a relevant major.
Ready for the next step? Further your career and specialise in a particular environmental area with a postgraduate degree.
Gain experience wherever and whenever you can. Seek out internships and partnership programs within government and local councils, or engineering, mining and energy firms.
What does an environmental scientist do?
Environmental scientists are scientists who study the environment and develop policies and plans for its protection. They conduct experiments in the lab, do hands-on field work, and research or teach at universities.
Duties and tasks
Develop and implement suggestions and advice to ensure an environmentally sustainable future.
Educate others about the need for conservation and environmentally sound practices and policies.
Take inventory of plants and animals to inform environmental policy.
Study and evaluate current environmental problems.
Work on conservation and sustainability to ensure a healthy and robust environment.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Air pollution analyst
Botanist
Ecologist
Environmental conservation officer
Environmental health officer
Environmentalist
Land degradation analyst
Landcare worker
Water quality analyst
Discover related degrees
Master of Science (Environment and Sustainability)
PostgraduateUSQ-SES-MAS
From global environmental systems to local sustainable management
Protect and preserve the environment and use natural resources wisely. You’ll explore social, environmental, and economic aspects. Build skills to deal with complex and uncertain situations. Focus on climate. Improve your research skills.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
PostgraduateUON-CLE-MAS
Power a clean energy future with advanced skills and leadership
Lead the global shift to clean energy. You’ll build advanced expertise in solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy. Delve into storage, smart grids, and policy. Grow as a leader. Graduate ready to drive sustainable energy projects worldwide.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 2 years full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Diploma in Clean Energy
PostgraduateUON-CLE-GDI
Innovate sustainable energy solutions for today and tomorrow
Build on your professional expertise with advanced knowledge in clean energy technology and management. You’ll gain skills in clean energy systems and optimising resource use. Develop the confidence to lead complex projects within the sector.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 1 year full time or part time equivalent
Graduate Certificate in Clean Energy
PostgraduateUON-CLE-GCE
Professional skills to contribute to the world’s sustainable energy future
Join the transformation of the global energy landscape. Your career as a clean energy professional starts here. You’ll gain foundational knowledge and technical skills to excel in the industry. Cover solar, wind, hydro, energy storage and more.
- Study method
- 100% online
- Duration
- 6 months full time or part time equivalent
Discover related subjects
UndergraduateUNE-GEPL106
- Study method
- 100% online
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026
Antarctic Governance and Policy in the 21st Century
PostgraduateTAS-KSM715
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026
PostgraduateTAS-KSM714
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 6 Jul 2026
UndergraduateTAS-KPZ104
- Study method
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
- Start dates
- Starts 23 Feb 2026, 6 Jul 2026, 2 Nov 2026
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