When we hear the term environment, most of us think less of clear mountain lakes and idyllic forests, but of a whole host of problems. Global warming, the extinction of species and the pollution of the world’s oceans are constant topics in the media.

It should be slowly becoming clear to everyone that serious changes in our way of life will be necessary if we want to continue to live on this planet. In the course of this development, more and more courses have emerged in recent years that train people to become experts in environmental matters .

Degree programs around the topic of the environment

Since the topic of environmental protection plays a role in almost every area of ​​life, the range of courses on this topic is also large. There are degree programs with

• scientific focus
• economic orientation
• engineering focus

Landscape ecology

According to mcat-test-centers, landscape ecology is one of the classic natural science courses . It provides students with the necessary expertise to landscapes to analyze and protection and care concepts to design . During their studies, students deal with subjects such as biology , chemistry , zoology, botany, soil science and climatology.

Environmental planning

The subject of environmental planning is closely related to landscape ecology. Environmental planners ensure that landscapes are used in an ecologically appropriate manner . The various user interests and aspects of environmental protection must be taken into account. In addition to natural science subjects , the curriculum also includes sociological , engineering and planning-related subjects .

Environmental management

Degree programs in the field of environmental management consider the topic of environmental protection from an economic perspective . Its aim is to train managers who produce goods as sustainably as possible. The course consists of business subjects such as micro and macro economics or controlling. In addition, the students deal with topics of sustainable management .

Degree programs with a natural and engineering focus

Some degree courses in the field of environmental management are natural and engineering sciences and focus on bioprocess engineering or water management .

In general, the number of engineering study programs that deal with the topic of environmental protection is large.

Environmental engineering students are trained to become engineers. You deal with modern environmental technology and renewable energies . In addition to classic engineering subjects such as engineering or mechanics, your studies include subjects such as environmental measurement technology or soil science.

Environmental Protection

Special degree programs on the subject of environmental protection prepare students specifically for an activity in environmental protection . Depending on the university, the focus is on the natural sciences or in the technical area. The students often have the opportunity to specialize , for example in water protection or waste management.

Environmental science

In addition to these specialized study programs, some universities have degrees called environmental sciences. A wide variety of content is hidden under this name . Depending on the university, the focus may be on marine environmental sciences or environmental planning, for example. Applicants should find out about the course content in advance.

Basics for studying

There are courses in the field of environmental sciences at universities and technical colleges. Applicants should meet the following requirements :

• the desire to protect the environment and combat environmental problems.
• Interest in subjects such as mathematics , biology and chemistry, as these form the basis for almost all degree programs
• Good knowledge of English, at the latest in the master’s degree, as the degree programs are partly international and the language of instruction is English.

Environmental sciences – an overview of professions

Since the topic of environmental protection plays a major role in both politics and business, graduates of environmental science courses currently have excellent career prospects . You can find a place in almost all economic sectors.

From the energy industry to the waste industry

Many graduates work in companies in the chemical industry , but also in the energy and waste industries . Activities in consulting and engineering offices are also possible. Many graduates set up their own office after a few years of professional experience.

Away from the economy: alternative occupational fields

Environmental scientists are not only found in the private sector. You also work in environmental agencies and ministries or in nature conservation associations and international organizations. A master’s degree qualifies for the higher civil service and is the basis for a doctorate and academic career.

Possible uses abroad

Many environmental problems cannot be tackled on a local or national level, but only on a global level . German environmental engineers are particularly popular abroad. But the specialist knowledge of German environmental experts is also in demand in other areas.

Those who would like to work abroad can, for example, work in an internationally operating company or for an NGO. International environmental protection associations or development cooperation institutions are also possible employers.

Studying environmental sciences abroad – the advantages

Students who are striving for an international career should, if possible, dare to take the step abroad during their studies.

A semester or two in another country is the perfect opportunity to look at environmental problems from a different perspective . Studying abroad also offers the opportunity to specialize in other subjects that may not be available in Germany. In addition, there is an opportunity to improve foreign language skills and gain intercultural skills.