A Degree Rooted in Science, Designed by You
In a world moving faster than ever, solving environmental challenges requires a 360-degree perspective. Our environmental sciences program at NC State bridges the gap between natural systems and human society. By linking hard science with social policy, you won’t just study the earth’s processes — you’ll learn how to protect them.
Here, you will develop the systematic problem-solving skills needed to balance socio-economic growth with environmental health, preparing you to lead the charge in innovation, technology and global policy.
Top 3% nationally
NC State ranks No. 7 out of 233 schools for Environmental Science bachelor’s degree programs. (College Factual, 2025)
No. 1 in North Carolina
NC State is ranked the best college for Environmental Science in the state. (Edurank, 2025)
Top 1% globally
Ranked No. 54 in the world for Environmental Science, placing NC State in the top 1% of universities worldwide. (Edurank, 2025)
Explore the Curriculum
The environment isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your education shouldn’t be either. Our curriculum provides a rigorous foundation in earth systems while giving you the freedom to specialize in what matters most to you
- 15 Customizable Credits: Tailor your degree to match your career goals. Whether you want to design eco-friendly technologies, advocate for climate policy or explore ecosystems, you have the flexibility to build your own path.
- Pick from Minor-Based Areas: Anthropology, Applied Ecology, Biological Sciences, Business Administration, Economics, Entomology, Environmental Education, Forest Management, Global Health, Political Science, Renewable Energy Assessment, Science Communication, Wildlife Sciences and more.
- Design Your Own Minor: Water Resources, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Sustainable Design, Conservation Ecology, Sustainable Practices for Business and more.
“The College of Natural Resources gave me a solid foundation for my career. The courses taught me skills I rely on every day to complete my tasks.”
Tatiana Frontera ’24
Connect with us in-person or virtually through info sessions and 1:1 meetings.
Hands-on Experience that Leads to Jobs
At the College of Natural Resources, we believe the planet is our classroom. Our program will take you out of the lecture halls and into the “living laboratories” all around us. From the urban canopy of Raleigh to the diverse ecosystems across North Carolina, you will gain the knowledge that only comes from getting your hands dirty. Some examples of hands-on learning include:
- Collect and analyze water and soil samples across North Carolina’s rivers and wetlands.
- Work with community partners to develop sustainability and climate resilience plans.
- Map coastal erosion and habitat change using drones and GIS tools.
“My internship showed me how environmental tools like GIS are used in the real world—and it helped me discover a career path I didn’t even know existed when I started college.”
Cecilia Nottingham ’24
Gain Real-World Experience
Take your adventure beyond NC State’s campus with leading companies and centers across the United States. Our students gain valuable internship experiences with organizations, including:
- RTI International
- Museum of Natural Sciences
- National Geographic Society
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
- Montana Conservation Corps (Madison River Foundation)
- NC Clean Energy Technology Center
- Terracon
What Can I Do with My Degree?
Environmental Sciences is a launch pad for your future. From safeguarding our natural resources to innovating sustainable solutions, our students turn their passion for the environment into rewarding professions.
Water Conservationist
Learn to safeguard our water supplies by identifying and mitigating environmental threats. Recent employers include the Army Corps of Engineers and the US Forest Service.
Environmental Planner
Focus on reducing urban and regional development impacts through environmental regulation and sustainability. Recent employers include city and state governments that help shape greener, more sustainable communities.
Policy Analyst
Provide analytical expertise and research for environment-related policy briefs. Recent employers include RTI International.
Energy Manager
Assess energy consumption, lead energy-efficient projects and launch initiatives to boost conservation. Recent employers include Duke Energy.
Sustainability Consultant
Guide businesses toward eco-friendly practices, cost reduction and sustainable solutions, benefiting both the environment and their operations. Recent employers include Interface USA.
Environmental Specialist
Investigate environmental and health issues, creating strategies to reduce or solve them through policy recommendations, and minimizing industrial pollution and waste. Recent employers include the National Parks Service.
Related Degrees
Passionate about environmental science but looking for a different angle? Try exploring our Natural Resources degree where students dive deep into science, economics, policy, technology and management.
Common Questions (FAQ)
What makes the environmental sciences program unique?
Our program combines a strong science foundation with the freedom to tailor your studies through 15 credit hours of electives. With access to more than 350 sustainability-related courses, you can design a degree that reflects your passions and career goals. This balance prepares you to both understand environmental systems and communicate solutions that inspire change.
What kinds of careers can I pursue with this major?
Graduates work in consulting, government, nonprofits, research and private industry — in roles ranging from environmental analyst to policy advocate, sustainability manager and beyond. Careers in sustainability and environmental management are growing faster than the national average.
Can I customize my degree?
Yes. You can choose an existing minor or design your own 15-credit focal area to match your interests. Students also benefit from hundreds of related courses across NC State, providing flexibility to align their studies with future opportunities.
What internships and hands-on opportunities are available?
Students gain real-world experience through research projects, internships with environmental organizations and campus initiatives focused on sustainability.
How does this major connect to job growth?
The environmental sector is expanding, with demand for professionals who combine scientific knowledge with communication and problem-solving skills.
How is the program recognized for value?
NC State is consistently ranked as one of the best values in higher education, offering strong return on investment in terms of career readiness and opportunities. Recognized as one of the top environmental science programs in North Carolina, the degree also demonstrates exceptional student satisfaction, with 95% of first-year students returning for their second year.
What kinds of research are faculty involved in?
Our faculty are leaders in areas such as climate resilience, sustainable technology, water systems and environmental policy — bringing current research directly into the classroom.
How does the program prepare me to make an impact?
By blending science and communication, you’ll graduate ready to advocate for policy, educate communities or design sustainable practices that address today’s challenges.
Where can I learn more about the curriculum?
Visit our catalog page to see sample semester-by-semester sequences, focal area options and course descriptions.
The Environmental Sciences Experience
