By Leslie Doyle | 08/14/2025
Many students want to make a difference in the fight against climate change, but they aren’t sure where to begin. If you’re wondering about what you can do with an environmental policy degree, consider how this educational path can position you to influence public policy, protect natural resources, and support long-term sustainability efforts.
The Rising Importance of Sustainability
The climate crisis isn’t just a theoretical problem. It’s affecting each of us in innumerable ways – from polluting drinking water to degrading the food supply and causing dangerous weather events.
Environmental hazards also contribute to the spread of infectious disease and related health crises. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that between 2030 and 2050, climate change will contribute to roughly 250,000 deaths a year stemming from issues such as malaria, undernutrition, and heat stress.
“Population growth, economic growth, and sustainability issues are creating more jobs and a higher need for this career field,” says American Military University (AMU) Associate Professor of Environmental Science Dr. Suzanne Agan. Dr. Agan has been an educator in wildlife, conservation, and environmental sciences for 20 years and has worked as a wildlife biologist.
What Is Environmental Policy?
Environmental policy is the framework for addressing humanity’s relationship with the planet. Typically, government agencies enact environmental policies to safeguard air and water, protect wildlife, and minimize environmental problems. Private industry may also enact independent measures to promote renewable energy or other sustainability initiatives.
“Environmental policy is a tough job, but it is very rewarding and very much needed,” says Dr. Agan. “No matter what environmental career you go into, an environmental policy program can give you the foundation for understanding all aspects of environmental issues and what can be done about them.
“Even if you work as a field biologist, you need to know and understand policy. A background in environmental policy also gives you the flexibility to apply for roles in many different settings, from nonprofits to industries such as transportation and energy. The list goes on and on.”
Potential Careers in Environmental Policy
“Careers in environmental policy vary greatly,” says Dr. Agan. “The good news is that there are myriad ways that you can build on your inherent strengths to start a career that serves to improve the environment around us.”
Potential career paths related to environmental policy include:
- Data scientists
- Environmental engineers
- Environmental planners
- Environmental policy analysts
- Environmental lawyers
- Environmental lobbyists
- Environmental scientists
- Environmental economists
- Sustainability specialists
- Environmental compliance officers
- Environmental educators
- Wastewater management specialists
Data Scientists
Data science now plays an integral role in addressing environmental concerns. These professionals use historic geographic data and satellite imagery to uncover patterns that help with predicting the effects of climate change, as well as foreseeing natural disasters, resource depletion, and wildlife degradation.
Armed with data models and technical feedback, data scientists help government officials and other people in management positions understand and improve upon environmental health.
Being a data scientist usually requires at least a bachelor’s in computer science, mathematics, statistics, or a similar field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some employers in the environmental sector require that applicants have a master’s or doctoral degree.
Environmental Engineers
Environmental engineers apply their knowledge of environmental science to protect public health. They assess projects such as water systems and roads to identify potential sources of contamination and develop solutions to mitigate problems.
A bachelor’s degree in civil, chemical, or environmental engineering is usually a baseline requirement for becoming an environmental engineer.
Environmental Planners
Environmental planners evaluate land use projects and their potential impact on the environment. Their analysis may include:
- Potential environmental risk assessments
- Natural resource management
- Disaster relief planning
- Sustainable development
City planners, also known as urban planners, undertake environmental planning to ensure proposed projects comply with building codes and meet the latest energy conservation guidelines.
Commonly, environmental planners have a bachelor’s in civil or environmental engineering, regional planning, environmental science, or a related field. Some of these professionals have additional degrees in fields such as historic preservation.
Environmental Policy Analysts
Environmental policy analysts (also called climate change policy analysts) conduct environmental policy analyses, review existing laws, and make recommendations for additional regulations. These professionals apply research to further environmental justice and related issues. By advising on potential new environmental laws, these analysts help promote sustainability and ensure environmental protections are effectively enacted.
Many roles in this area require a master’s degree or other higher level of education in fields such as environmental science or climate science.
Environmental Lawyers
Environmental lawyers represent clients in helping to enforce environmental protections and resolve legal disputes. In addition to working on specific court cases, environmental lawyers play a role in developing new environmental policies.
Typically, this type of lawyer needs to complete law school, earn their law degree, and pass the bar exam to practice law in their particular state.
Environmental Lobbyists
Environmental lobbyists influence legislators in supporting potential new environmental laws. In preparation for their job, they:
- Research political issues and existing policies
- Explore ways to address emerging environmental challenges
- Meet with government officials
- Educate the public and policymakers about important bills
A bachelor’s in political science, environmental science, or related fields is typically required to become an environmental lobbyist. Earning a master’s degree or doctorate can expand your knowledge about gaining consensus from lawmakers and other stakeholders.
Environmental Scientists
Environmental scientists study the natural world and seek ways to help protect it. Their research may involve:
- Collecting water, air, and soil samples
- Studying the effects of pollution on wildlife
- Inspecting natural habitats
- Analyzing temperature trends
- Examining the environmental impacts of human populations and their activities
Environmental scientists often specialize in specific areas, such as hazardous waste sites, wildlife protection, or forestry preservation. Professionals in this role typically earn a bachelor’s in environmental science or similar fields, such as ecology or geography.
Environmental Economists
Environmental economists bring together environmental data and financial information to assess the connection between the environment and the economy. These professionals advise policymakers and other decision-makers about how economic activity can impact environmental health. Environmental economics also involves evaluating the cost-benefit of proposed environmental laws and initiatives, helping to balance economic priorities with environmental goals.
Commonly, environmental economists will earn a bachelor’s degree at a minimum. Often, people in these roles have a master’s or doctoral degree to help them understand the complex interactions between the environment and the economy.
Sustainability Specialists
Sustainability specialists help organizations to evaluate projects and determine the best path forward. They guide clients in understanding sustainable development, including how to achieve LEED green building certification. These professionals bring expertise in environmental regulations, certifications, and operational strategies to support environmentally responsible decision-making.
Although many sustainability specialists have a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, environmental architecture, or a similar field, there isn’t a specific educational requirement for this type of job.
Environmental Compliance Officers
Environmental compliance officers are responsible for helping organizations understand, implement, and comply with environmental regulations that are relevant to their industry. They may work at:
- Government agencies
- Various industries such as energy and agriculture
- Universities
An undergraduate degree in biology, natural resource management, or a related field is required to pursue this type of career path.
Environmental Educators
Environmental educators raise awareness about environmental problems. They prepare future generations to discover our society’s responsibility for ensuring environmental protections. Through their leadership, environmental educators support students in helping to tackle some of today’s biggest challenges, ranging from combating climate change to protecting wildlife.
Environmental studies can include a wide array of subjects, such as:
- Water science
- Soil science
- Environmental policy
- Environmental ethics
Environmental educators need at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as environmental science, environmental management, or environmental studies. There may also be credentialing requirements, depending on the state where they plan to teach.
Wastewater Management Engineers
Water management/wastewater management engineers design and manage water supply and wastewater treatment systems. These engineers work closely with government authorities and local communities and bring environmental engineering expertise to guide projects that:
- Safeguard water supplies
- Minimize stormwater runoff
- Prevent flooding
- Ensure overall water safety
An education in civil engineering, environmental science, or mechanical engineering is common in this field.
Types of Employers in the Environmental Industry
Careers in environmental policy aren’t limited to a single type of workplace. Knowledge of environmental policy and management can be applied to many different settings. As more people, organizations, and governments become attuned to the pressing need to address environmental issues, job opportunities are likely to grow.
For example, surveys show there is now much greater public awareness that climate change is a serious problem. This rising awareness has also spurred consumer demand for sustainability and public demand for more effective environmental laws. According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, 60% of Americans say stricter environmental laws are worth the cost.
Today, careers in environmental policy may be found in various settings, including:
- Federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- State governments
- Local governments like city planning or urban planning offices
- Private-sector industries
- Nonprofit organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF)
Skills to Succeed in Environmental Policy
To thrive as an environmental policy professional, you need to immerse yourself in understanding the environment as well as many factors that impact it, such as human population growth and development. Beyond gaining this expertise, you'll benefit from honing your skills in:
- Critical thinking
- Written and oral communication
- Consensus building
- Creativity
- Intellectual curiosity
“You have to be ready to research more than you ever thought you would and have great presentation skills,” says Dr. Agan.
Helpful Personality Traits for Pursuing Environmental Jobs
“When it comes to politics, personality traits can make or break your reputation and success in the field,” says Dr. Agan. “Unfortunately, most environmental issues are polarizing, meaning people usually fall to the extremes on one side or the other, which makes creating policy really difficult.
“This work requires someone who can bring people to the table, help them work together, and find that middle ground where good work happens. It’s not about ‘pulling people to your side.’ Rather, it needs to be about coming to the middle.
“That’s difficult because we are so passionate as individuals about our ideals. In that regard, important traits include openness to learning and new experiences. We need to be able to understand all sides before making decisions.”
In addition, candidates seeking environmental policy jobs should have these personal traits:
- Conscientiousness – pushing yourself to perform work with excellence
- Empathy – realizing that policy should take all viewpoints into consideration
- Sincerity – demonstrating your integrity so that people know you mean what you say
- Patience – persevering through time-consuming processes
An Environmental Policy Success Story
“A standout example of creative and bipartisan environmental lobbying success is the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022, which included the largest climate investment in U.S. history – $369 billion for clean energy and climate initiatives,” says Dr. Agan.
“Environmental groups, clean energy companies, and even some traditionally conservative-leaning industries like utilities and agriculture collaborated to frame the IRA not just as a climate bill, but as an economic growth and energy independence initiative. This reframing helped result in support from moderate Democrats and even some Republicans in key districts.”
Getting Started in Environmental Policy
“My first recommendation to all environmental policy students is to make connections in the field where you would like to work,” says Dr. Agan. “Reach out directly to organizations and their leaders.
“Introduce yourself and ask about opportunities to volunteer for them, intern, or even just be present and work alongside someone at their organization on an issue. Most places really appreciate outreach and mentorship.
“Also, to make the most out of your education, try different things. There are so many avenues you can take with this degree.”
Dr. Agan also advocates for volunteering. “Get out to and volunteer at different places and in different positions. Stick to one at a time so you don’t get overwhelmed,” she advises.
“Start local with the space you are invested in already but don’t discount dream jobs and places. You never know what opportunities will present themselves.
“If you love nature and the great outdoors, environmental policy is a wonderful program that can take you in a lot of different directions. As you are taking your courses, you will find that you love certain topics more than others and that can lead you.
“The assignments and discussions will bring out your passions. Do those with excellence, focusing on the topics and examples that really draw you in and you will find your place.”
The Master’s in Environmental Policy and Management at AMU
If you want to gain the knowledge to pursue a career path in environmental policy, AMU offers an online Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Management. For this academic program, there are various course offerings such as environmental management, environmental economics, and environmental policy, regulation, and law. Other courses include environmental ethics, environmental toxicology, and applied statistics.
For more information about this degree, visit AMU’s science degree program page.