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The 30 Best Colleges for Environmental Science
What’s Covered:
- How We Made This List
- 30 Best Environmental Science Schools
- What Are Your Chances of Acceptance to these Top Environmental Science Schools?
Environmental science is a vital discipline that draws on the natural sciences to study the planet, its resources, environmental challenges, and the impact of human activity. People who study this field pursue careers as marine biologists, researchers, consultants, conservationists, environmental engineers, ecologists, educators, meteorologists, environmental lawyers, and more.
How We Made This List
To create our list of the best environmental science programs in the country, we examined a range of factors, including the reputation of the program, the overall quality of the school, the popularity of the major in the context of the school, and the size of the program relative to the size of the school.
30 Best Environmental Science Schools
1. University of California, Berkeley | UC Berkeley
Location: Berkeley, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 33,469
Acceptance Rate: 11%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
Berkeley’s Environmental Science major is a top-rated, interdisciplinary program. Students explore concepts in:
- Biology
- Ecology
- Chemistry
- Toxicology
- Geology
- Hydrology
- Meteorology
- Geography
- Engineering
- Statistics
- Behavioral science
- Policy analysis
- Economics
- Law
Students choose a Social Science, Physical Science, or Biological Science Concentration. The program culminates in a year-long research project—the senior thesis—during which students investigate an environmental issue and design and execute independent research.
2. Yale University
Location: New Haven, CT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,814
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1560/33-35
Yale College Environmental Studies offers both BA and BS degrees. The interdisciplinary programs explore concepts in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, encouraging students to grapple with the most challenging environmental problems the world faces today. During their studies, students prepare for the EVST senior essay, the major’s capstone project.
3. Columbia University
Location: New York, NY
Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,164
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1510-1560/34-36
Columbia’s Environmental Science major explores the interaction between Earth’s physical environment and the biosphere. Students study a range of relevant science fields in depth. The program includes a senior capstone experience, during which majors complete a research project and a Senior Thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
4. Bucknell University
Location: Lewisburg, PA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,920
Acceptance Rate: 29%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1170-1380/26-32
At Bucknell, you can major in Environmental Studies or Environmental Science—each pathway leads to a BA. No matter which program you choose, you will partake in experiential learning, visiting local waterways, rural communities, and state forests. You’ll also conduct faculty-led research, traveling around the world to tackle real-world problems—from sustainability in Europe to climate change in Central Asia.
5. University of California, Los Angeles |UCLA
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 33,471
Acceptance Rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
Combining theory, community, and real-world practice, UCLA’s bachelor’s degree in environmental science is a diverse, immersive experience that prepares students to tackle complex environmental issues. Students complete the program by undertaking a Senior Practicum, a year-long capstone program, where they will work alongside peers and a faculty member or another environmental expert.
6. Brown University
Location: Providence, RI
Undergraduate Enrollment: 7,910
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1510-1560/34-35
The Institute at Brown for Environment and Society (IBES) offers two undergraduate degrees: an A.B. in Environmental Studies and a Sc.B. in Environmental Science. Both degree paths offer an interdisciplinary approach, immersing students in the natural and social sciences, as well as public policy. Students choose among four tracks of study:
- Climate and Energy
- Conservation Science and Natural Systems
- Environmental Justice and Health
- Sustainable Development and Governance
7. Colgate University
Location: Hamilton, NY
Undergraduate Enrollment: 3,193
Acceptance Rate: 14%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1530/33-34
The Colgate Environmental Studies Program takes an interdisciplinary approach, offering majors in:
- Environmental Biology
- Environmental Economics
- Environmental Geography
- Environmental Geology
- Environmental Studies
The university also offers a minor in Environmental Studies. All paths provide an abundance of opportunities, including extensive study abroad experiences, such as an immersive program at the University of Wollongong in New South Wales, Australia. There are also numerous research opportunities.
8. University of Pennsylvania | UPenn
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 11,800
Acceptance Rate: 9%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1460-1570/33-35
The Department of Earth and Environmental Science at UPenn offers undergraduate majors in Earth and Environmental Science (EESC) and Environmental Studies (ENVS), as well as minors in Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Geology, and Sustainability and Environmental Management. Students have plenty of research opportunities through programs like Hayden Scholars, along with communities like the Penn Geology Society.
9. Washington University in St. Louis | WashU
Location: Saint Louis, MO
Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,220
Acceptance Rate: 12%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1500-1570/33-35
In the Environmental Studies program at WashU, students work to understand the systems that shape the Earth’s environment. Students may major in Environmental Analysis or minor in Environmental Studies. All programs prepare students to tackle real-world environmental problems through coursework and independent research. They may also participate in interdisciplinary, project-based, community-engaged learning experiences.
10. University of Southern California | USC
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 20,630
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1550/32-35
The ENVS degrees at USC are built on specialized natural and social science courses and interdisciplinary courses focusing on sustainability. Students may pursue one of two concentrations toward earning a BA: Science and Management or Policy and Management. Meanwhile, four concentrations are available within the BS degree path:
- Sustainability and Society
- Oceans and People
- Climate and Environment
- Environmental Policy
11. Northeastern University
Location: Boston, MA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 22,695
Acceptance Rate: 5%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1520/33-35
Northeastern undergraduates can pursue two environment-focused majors: a BS in Environmental and Sustainability Sciences or a BA in Environmental Studies. Both pathways offer several concentrations and leverage Northeastern’s co-op program, giving students the chance to explore professional opportunities and build real-world experience.
12. University of California, Davis | UC Davis
Location: Davis, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 32,273
Acceptance Rate: 42%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
UC Davis’ College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is home to the Environmental Science and Management major. The program includes a capstone course integrating science, policy, management, and biology aspects of the major, and students will gain practical experience through field courses and a required internship. In their junior year, students choose a specialized track from the six options:
- Climate Change and Air Quality
- Ecology, Biodiversity, and Conservation
- Environmental Data Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Soils and Biogeochemistry
- Watershed Science
13. University of Texas at Austin | UT Austin
Location: Austin, TX
Undergraduate Enrollment: 43,165
Acceptance Rate: 27%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science takes an interdisciplinary scientific approach to environmental and sustainability issues, analysis, and management. Students perform field and laboratory work, computer analysis, and original research, toward the goals of preparing students for careers in local, state, and federal government laboratories and nonprofit agencies, environmental consulting firms, environmental education and outreach agencies, and universities and other research settings.
14. Santa Clara University
Location: Santa Clara, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 6,577
Acceptance Rate: 48%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1360-1480/31-33
The Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences (ESS) at Santa Clara offers interdisciplinary programs of study leading to a BS in Environmental Science or Environmental Studies—they also offer an Environmental Studies minor. Students engage in coursework in applied ecology, water resources, climate, renewable energy, and more. They are encouraged to study abroad and pursue research-oriented field programs.
15. Massachusetts Maritime Academy | MMA
Location: Buzzards Bay, MA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 1,271
Acceptance Rate: 95%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
MMA is uniquely positioned to provide a comprehensive environmental science education through the Marine Science, Safety, and Environmental Protection (MSSEP) program. First-year cadets participate in a tropical ecology field course in Bermuda.
Cadets also engage in hands-on and offshore work, as well as participate in a six-week co-op internship and three-credit co-op, while utilizing environmental and marine science technology and developing critical skills in the field.
16. Trinity College
Location: Hartford, CT
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,237
Acceptance Rate: 34%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1310-1460/30-33
Trinity is home to a vibrant ENVS community. The program blends theory and practice, giving students exposure to concepts and methods in the field. They have plenty of research and hands-on learning opportunities, investigating topics like soil chemistry, home ranges of urban hawk populations, and much more. All of this takes place as part of a comprehensive liberal arts education, where students participate in coursework in environmental policy, nature writing, economics, or anthropology.
17. University of Virginia | UVA
Location: Charlottesville, VA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 17,901
Acceptance Rate: 17%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1520/32-34
The Department of Environmental Sciences at UVA offers both BA and BS degrees in Environmental Sciences. Through a flexible curriculum, students gain an understanding of the scientific processes and problems related to the environment, exploring areas like Ecology, Geoscience, Hydrology, and Atmospheric Science. Students are able to tailor their curriculum to prepare for graduate studies or careers.
18. Colorado College
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Undergraduate Enrollment: 2,100
Acceptance Rate: 18%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1240-1440/29-33
Colorado College offers two integrated majors in Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. The Environmental Science major prepares students to investigate the Earth system, focusing on how humans interact with the environment. Meanwhile, the Environmental Studies major prepares students to investigate the complexity of socio-ecological relationships. The college also offers a minor in Environmental Studies.
19. Virginia Tech
Location: Blacksburg, VA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,035
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1280-1450/28-32
This interdisciplinary, student-oriented Environmental Science program emphasizes the essential role that ecosystem processes play in sustaining Earth’s inhabitants. There are many options aimed at various areas of focus, such as resource preservation and the rehabilitation of ecosystems. Students gain a practical understanding of the biosphere through experiential learning.
20. Emory University
Location: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 7,407
Acceptance Rate: 10%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1480-1540/32-35
A degree in environmental sciences from Emory has real-world impacts. Students are equipped to address the most important challenges of our world: climate change, disease ecology, food and water security, vector-borne disease, and human impacts on the environment. Students participate in coursework, problem-solving, field activities, and individual study. There are several degree paths available:
- BA Environmental Sciences
- BS Environmental Sciences
- BS Environmental Science—Ecology and Conservation (ECO)Track
- BS Environmental Sciences—Earth and Atmospheric Science (EAS) Track
- BS Environmental Sciences—Environment and Health (EVH) Track
- BS Environmental Sciences—Social Science and Policy (SSP) Track
21. University of Minnesota, Twin Cities | Minnesota
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Undergraduate Enrollment: 41,303
Acceptance Rate: 80%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1320-1470/26-31
The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Minnesota has existed for more than 150 years, making major contributions toward understanding the Earth and its environment. Environmental Science, Policy and Management (EPSM) is the university’s premier environmental major, preparing the next generation of professionals through interdisciplinary coursework, research, and enrichment experiences.
As a freshman, you will take core classes and explore other interests, before choosing a track to focus on starting sophomore year:
- Conservation and Resource Management
- Environmental Education and Communication
- Environmental Science
- Policy, Planning, Law, and Society
22. Boston College | BC
Location: Chestnut Hill, MA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 9,575
Acceptance Rate: 16%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1450-1520/33-34
BC’s Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences offers a breadth of undergraduate programs that prepare students for careers in geosciences, environmental sciences, and beyond. Students may choose between two majors: Environmental Geoscience or Geological Sciences. Students are encouraged to study abroad through flexible foreign studies programs and paths.
23. University of Wisconsin-Madison
Location: Madison, WI
Undergraduate Enrollment: 39,083
Acceptance Rate: 45%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1370-1490/29-33
The Environmental Sciences program emphasizes critical thinking and problem solving, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in nonprofit and private sectors or graduate school. Students may pursue their degrees through either the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) or the College of Letters & Science (L&S) under the BS or BA degree programs. They may also pursue double majors with a variety of other majors.
24. University of Maryland, College Park
Location: College Park, MD
Undergraduate Enrollment: 31,133
Acceptance Rate: 45%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1520/32-35
The Environmental Science and Policy program produces leaders who will tackle the most pressing environmental challenges of today. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to grapple with complex issues like global trends such as:
- Environmental change
- Global food security
- Urban environment optimization
- Green technology development
Students choose among a number of tracks ranging from Environment and Agriculture to Marine and Coastal Management to Environmental Justice.
25. University of California, Santa Barbara
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 23,181
Acceptance Rate: 33%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: N/A
Established in 1970, the Environmental Studies Program at UC Santa Barbara is over 50 years old and offers three undergraduate degrees: BA and BS degrees in Environmental Studies and a BS degree in Hydrological Sciences and Policy. All paths engage students in foundations in the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Students are encouraged to study abroad—in the 2023-2024 academic year, over 120 Environmental Studies students studied abroad in 22 different countries.
26. Stanford University
Location: Stanford, CA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 7,904
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1510-1570/34-35
The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability offers several paths toward a grounding in the environmental sciences. The Earth Systems Program is an interdisciplinary environmental science major, encouraging students to grapple with complex environmental problems caused by human activities in conjunction with natural changes in the Earth system.
The school also offers the Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources (E-IPER) and the Change Leadership for Sustainability Program.
27. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | UNC
Location: Chapel Hill, NC
Undergraduate Enrollment: 21,075
Acceptance Rate: 15%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1400-1530/28-34
UNC’s Environmental Science and Studies programs provide an interdisciplinary perspective on examining and training for work in environmental fields. There are many opportunities available for undergraduates, such as participating in an honors track, internships, study abroad, research, and experiential education.
They can also join the Carolina Environmental Student Alliance (CESA), an interdisciplinary organization dedicated to uniting the environmental interests of students across campus.
28. North Carolina State University | NC State
Location: Raleigh, NC
Undergraduate Enrollment: 28,422
Acceptance Rate: 41%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1290-1440/25-32
The NC State Environmental Sciences program prepares students to become experts through an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the environment. Students explore complex, interdisciplinary environmental issues through coursework in topics like Climate Change and Sustainability, Energy and the Environment, and Analysis of Environmental Issues. Then, they customize their degree paths, designing a focal area of study or selecting a minor.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in hands-on internships and experiential learning, like study abroad.
29. Villanova University
Location: Villanova, PA
Undergraduate Enrollment: 7,009
Acceptance Rate: 27%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1410-1450/32-34
Villanova’s BS in Environmental Science gives students a firm grounding in the technical knowledge and experience necessary for understanding the biological, chemical, and physical aspects of the environment. The program focuses on the application of principles critical for understanding the natural and physical environments of the Earth.
30. University of Delaware
Location: Newark, DE
Undergraduate Enrollment: 19,287
Acceptance Rate: 69%
Middle 50% SAT/ACT: 1220-1370/28-32
The Environmental Science major at UD gives students unique insight into how natural processes shape the environment and how humans impact the planet. The program takes a multidisciplinary approach to encourage students to grapple with issues like habitat loss, sustainable development, water quality, biodiversity, climate change, renewable energy, and more. Students choose among the following tracks, all while participating in research and experiential learning:
- Climate and Society
- Ecoscience
- Energy and Environment
- Geoscience
- Marine Science
- Water Science
What Are Your Chances of Acceptance to these Top Environmental Science Schools?
Many of the colleges and programs on this list are highly competitive. What are your chances of admission? Find out with our free chancing engine. We will calculate your true odds of admission to these and other schools across the country based on your academic and extracurricular profiles, plus give you tips on how to improve your chances of acceptance.
