Everyone in every profession has the power to change the world into a healthier, greener place. From architects to engineers, teachers and insurance professionals, every market and profession needs a background in sustainability. The question is, should you pursue a sustainability degree?
The number of jobs involved in sustainability planning and implementation is increasing. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the demand for wind turbine technicians and solar power installers is: Two of the fastest growing occupations In the country. But we know that people considering training and investing in a sustainability career have many questions. What is the job market like for this specialty? Is it major or minor? How far can a sustainability degree go in today’s culture?
What is a Sustainability Degree?
Sustainability is an interdisciplinary major that can take the form of a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree focused on the sustainability of environmental resources and social systems or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree focused on the sustainable use of environmental resources. In recent years, Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees with a focus on sustainability have become more common.
Students can pursue a business sustainability degree or focus in environmental science with a sustainability minor. Or, you could earn a bachelor’s degree and bypass entry-level jobs and go on to earn a master’s or doctoral degree before entering the job market. An advanced degree provides opportunities to conduct research, internships, and leadership training that can lead to bigger, better, and more lucrative careers.
There are many ways to create and shape your level of sustainability for maximum profitability, job satisfaction and environmental impact.
Job Market for Sustainability Jobs
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects positive job growth for many people. sustainability careers In the fields of social planning, environmental science, government, public health, construction, economics, technology and design, especially:
- environmental scientist We strive to manage, improve, protect and maximize natural resources without damaging the environment. They spend a lot of time working outdoors and studying the natural environment. Indeed.com report The average base salary for an environmental scientist is $67,668 and can reach $100,118 per year.
- Environmental or Industrial Engineer: Environmental engineers work to improve the environment and are essential in reducing and eliminating sources of pollution. Industrial engineers help eliminate wasteful activities. The average base salary for this job is $89,626 and can go up to $130,000. According to Indeed.com.
- City planner: Sustainable builders and urban designers enjoy a rapidly growing position, the BLS says. The job growth comes as city governments require green buildings to prevent air pollution and excessive waste production. I found Indeed.com. The average base salary for a city planner is $76,306, with a maximum salary of $112,213.
- Renewable Energy Experts: The BLS predicts steady growth in jobs. wind, of the sunand geothermal Energy for the near future. Experts and visionaries in the renewable energy field can find jobs in universities, non-profit organizations, engineering design firms, and utility companies. Or you could work as a private consultant. Glassdoor reported The average annual salary for these jobs in 2024 is $102,000 and can reach as high as $141,000.
People with a sustainability degree can find green jobs in general fields such as business, commerce, and communications.
- law: With a focus on environmental law and policy, they may also specialize in climate change, food law, land use, water law or energy law. Pursuing a legal career at a law firm, government agency, corporation, or non-profit organization is a natural transition.
- business: From marketing to management, business strategy and design, Green MBA graduates can apply their skills to existing businesses. Or try your hand as an entrepreneur with the next green idea in technology, mobile applications or sustainable small town cafes. Businesses and enterprises must meet existing and evolving government regulations while maintaining long-term growth. To achieve these goals, business-focused sustainability professionals are essential.
- politics: Every student, whether they are at the lower or upper levels of government, has the potential to become the next Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. You don’t necessarily need a level of sustainability to get there, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. Work as a consultant, strategist, or compliance officer. Spend time in the field. fight. You need to have a voice, or at least know how to broadcast the voices of political experts you support.
- journalism: Sustainability major, journalism minor? If you already know the beats you want to cover, this career path is for you, whether you want to freelance or work for a news outlet. An environmental journalism degree allows professionals to use their position to educate, advocate, and uncover issues of conservation and sustainability. Specializations can help advance this career, and a working knowledge of government regulations and industry standards is essential.
Sustainability The Future of Work
The most successful green professionals are skilled in research and analysis, problem solving, communication, and interpersonal skills. Communicating important environmental messages requires passion and the tools of persuasion. Commitment to the field of sustainability and all that it makes possible is essential.
Sustainability careers are diverse, and as with any field, the more education and experience you have, the more impact you can have on protecting the environment.
Editor’s note: This article was first published January 7, 2020, but was updated in December 2024.
