Future career - BSc Environmental Sciences

Work in various fields

Graduates from the master’s programmes in Environmental Sciences and Urban Environmental Management (which follow on from the bachelor of Environmental Sciences) are familiar with virtually all aspects of environmental issues and can therefore work in a range of fields. In the industry they work on improved production methods or environmental management, while those in the public sector create or implement environmental policy. Those working for engineering or consulting firms are involved with projects related to soil decontamination or integrated water management. At universities or research institutes, they generate new knowledge and environmental technologies.

Jobs

Research on graduate career choices reveals the following most common graduate-level positions:

Project manager, advisor or consultant in a consulting firm Graduates in these positions provide knowledge to businesses and government bodies. There is growing demand for experts with both a knowledge of technology and an understanding of policy. The Wageningen Environmental Sciences programmes are unique in this respect.

Researcher Researchers work at universities or research institutions, such as the Netherlands Organisation for applied scientific research TNO or the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). Examples of projects include the development of alternative forms of energy.

Industry coordinator/support staff These employees are experts whose skills lie in combining knowledge of environmental technology and quality with an understanding of environmental management and policy.

Coordinator/advisor at a government institution These employees work for departments such as the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment, provincial authorities or large municipal authorities. International government bodies (such as the EU) are also employing more and more environmental science experts.

Plus many more options... Graduates also become environmental information officers or process technologists who work to improve existing products or production processes. Some graduates start lecturing in higher education. Other options include working as an environmental scientist in developmental aid or entering the political sphere.