Usually environmental science is taught as an MSc. programme. Graduates
courses (i.e B.Sc.) in environmental science are offered only by a few
institutions. In the graduate level, most institutes teach environmental
science as a specialised course.
The eligibility criteria for 3 year B.Sc Environmental Science is
a pass in 10+2 examination or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
Engineering diploma holders can also join the course. Andhra University;
Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM), Visakhapatnam and
University of Madras, Chennai etc. offers Bachelor of Environmental Management
(BEM) course. Eligibility criteria and duration of this course is as same
as that of B.Sc. course.
The requirement for 2 years M.Sc. Environmental Science is B.Sc. Environmental
science or a bachelor's degree in any discipline of science namely zoology,
botany, physics, chemistry, biology, agriculture science etc. Work experience is preferred by some institutes for the MSc course
and some institutes conduct entrance examinations. Candidates with master
degree in environmental science can opt doctoral and post-doctoral courses
like M.Phil and Ph.D and can become environmental scientists. Ph.D courses
are offered by Post Graduate Studies and Research, Hyderabad and Osmania
University.
Certain institutes offer short term PG Diploma courses in environmental
science and environment management. The Centre for Environmental Education
and Research and Advocacy (CEERA) of the National Law School of Indian
University, Bangalore offers one year Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental
Law (PGDEL) to graduates in any discipline through distance learning mode.
Short term courses are also offered by Sikkim Manipal University, Indira
Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi etc.
The curriculum of the courses may vary from institute to institute. Generally
it involves observation of changes in the earth's atmosphere by pollution,
global warming, forest conservation, soil erosion etc; pollution control,
industrial hygiene, radiation protection, hazardous waste management,
toxic materials control, water supply and other allied areas in this field.
Graduate programs help students to specialize their knowledge and skills
in the field which is essential for an increase in job value. Post graduate
programs will help one to obtain an understanding of today's most complex
environmental issues through the studies in advanced technical skills,
conservation theory and waste management.
Personal Attributes:
An effective environmental professional/ scientist should have a creative
and flexible mind, a love for nature and the environment, and a keen interest
for its conservation. Besides, they must build good communicating skills,
data handling, interpretation and interpersonal skills, problem solving
and writing skills. They should be able to work as a team member and must
have the ability to understand, express and implement their ideas. Other
attributes needed are keen observation and a scientific aptitude towards
the profession.
