Bioenvironmental science is concerned with how human activities impact the overall environment and the life forms that depend on it. Professionals working within the discipline analyze the changes taking place within the environment and seek ways to guard it from hazards. There are several different careers available for those with an interest in bioenvironmental science.
Hydrologists study the water cycle, the availability of water and how human activities impact water quality. They spend part of their time out in the field acquiring samples, and part in laboratories analyzing those samples. Some hydrologists act as consultants to governmental organizations, making policy recommendations. A career as a hydrologist typically requires at least a master's degree. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that approximately 7,600 hydrologists were employed in the United States as of 2010, earning a median salary of $75,690 a year.
Atmospheric scientists study weather, climate and other aspects of the atmosphere. Those who focus on human impact are often referred to as climate scientists. Climate scientists gather information about the weather, including patterns of precipitation, storms and temperature readings, to gain an understanding of how today's weather compares with the past, and how this can be affected by human activity. Research scientists in this field usually need a PhD. Atmospheric scientists earned a median salary of $87,780 per year in 2010, according to the BLS.
Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
Zoologists and wildlife biologists study animals in the wild. Most focus on a particular type of animal, such as reptiles, mammals or birds. One of the primary responsibilities of these scientists is to study the impact of human activities on specific animal populations. Some, called ecologists, study human impacts on entire ecosystems. Entry-level jobs in this field may only require a bachelor's degree, although research positions usually require a PhD. The BLS reports that as of 2010, the median salary for Zoologists and wildlife biologists was $57,430 per year.
Environmental scientists focus on the impact of pollution on the environment, and how that environmental degradation can be harmful to humans. Those who specialize in the impact of chemicals on the environment are referred to as environmental chemists. Many environmental scientists work with government agencies developing plans to clean up existing pollution or draft legislation intended to prevent future pollution. Entry-level positions in this field require a bachelor's degree. Environmental scientists reported a median salary of $61,700 to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2010.
Environmental Science Technicians
Not all jobs in the field of bioenvironmental science require a four-year degree. People with an associate degree in a field related to the biological or environmental sciences can sometimes find work as environmental science technicians. These workers collect samples and perform lab work under the direction of environmental scientists and other science professionals. They might inspect public buildings and other establishments to ensure there are no environmental, health, or safety hazards. They might also set up and maintain equipment used to monitor pollution levels, such as remote sensors that measure emissions from smokestacks. Environmental science technicians reported a median annual income of $41,380 as of 2010.
- Texas A&M University: Bioenvironmental Science Curriculum
- Morgan State University: P.h.D. Program in Bio-Environmental Sciences
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Hydrologists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Atmospheric Scientists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Zoologists and Wildlife Biologists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Environmental Scientists and Specialists
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Environmental Science and Protection Technicians
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