Environmental Science / Studies

Compare Environmental Science / Studies programs across 122 schools. Tiered by program strength with earnings data and program highlights.

122 Schools 25 Flagship 50 Strong 47 Solid
← All Majors School Profiles Flagship Programs (25) Strong Programs (50) Solid Programs (47)

★★★ Flagship Programs

Princeton University
Princeton, NJ · Private · NU #1 · Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) & Department of Geosciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Geosciences, Environmental Science and Engineering (Joint Program), Environmental Studies
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Conservation Biology and Ecosystem Dynamics, Geophysical Fluid Dynamics
Princeton's environmental studies program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, engineering, and public policy within a lib
Princeton's Environmental Science program is a national flagship, distinguished by its rigorous interdisciplinary integr
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA · Private · NU #3 · Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) / Environmental Science Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Environmental Policy and Management
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Biogeochemistry and Global Change Biology, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Science program at Harvard is distinguished by its rigorous integration of natural sciences with policy and ethics, offering student
Harvard's Environmental Science program is a national leader, distinguished by its rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum
Stanford University
Stanford, CA · Private · NU #4 · School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences (STEES)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Earth Systems, Environmental Science and Policy, Energy Resources Engineering, Environmental Engineering
Research: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Sustainable Energy Systems, Water Resources and Hydrology
Stanford's Environmental Science program is distinguished by its recent integration into the newly formed Doerr School of Sustainability, offering unp
Stanford's Environmental Science program is a national leader, recently elevated by the formation of the prestigious Doe
Yale University
New Haven, CT · Private · NU #5 · Environmental Studies Program (within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Policy and Management, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Human Dimensions of Environmental Change
Research: Climate Change Science and Policy, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Environmental Law and Governance
The Environmental Studies program at Yale is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and policy analysis, often
Yale's Environmental Studies program is a global leader, anchored by the world-renowned Yale School of Forestry & Enviro
Duke University
Durham, NC · Private · NU #6 · Nicholas School of the Environment
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Policy and Management, Earth and Ocean Sciences, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Economics and Policy
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Environmental Economics and Policy Analysis
The Nicholas School of the Environment is a globally recognized leader in environmental education, distinguished by its rigorous integration of natura
The Nicholas School of the Environment is a globally recognized leader in the field, consistently ranking among the top
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL · Private · NU #6 · Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Earth & Planetary Sciences, Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Ecological Restoration and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Governance
Northwestern's Environmental Science and Studies program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and policy
Northwestern's Environmental Science and Studies program is a nationally recognized leader due to its rigorous interdisc
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD · Private · NU #6 · Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) within the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Marine Science
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Marine Biogeochemistry, Environmental Toxicology
The Environmental Science program at Johns Hopkins is distinguished by its intense focus on quantitative science and direct access to world-class rese
Johns Hopkins' Environmental Science program leverages the university's #1 national research ranking to offer world-clas
Wellesley College
Wellesley, MA · Private · LAC #7 · Department of Environmental Science and Policy
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy
Research: Ecological restoration and conservation biology, Environmental policy and governance, Climate change adaptation and mitigation
The Environmental Science and Policy program at Wellesley is distinctive for its dual focus on rigorous scientific inquiry and critical policy analysi
Wellesley's Environmental Science and Policy program is a national leader due to its distinctive dual focus on rigorous
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA · Private · NU #10 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (EES)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geography, Sustainability Science
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Urban Sustainability and Planning, Hydrology and Water Resources
The University of Pennsylvania offers a rigorous BA in Environmental Science through the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, distinguished
The University of Pennsylvania's Environmental Science program is a top-tier offering distinguished by its rigorous inte
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY · Private · NU #11 · Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (College of Arts and Sciences) / Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (College of Agriculture and Life Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Atmospheric Science, Earth Systems, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Engineering (via College of Engineering)
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Dynamics, Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity, Sustainable Food Systems and Natural Resources
Cornell's Environmental Science program is distinctive for its dual-pathway structure, allowing students to pursue a BA through the College of Arts an
Cornell's Environmental Science program is a national leader, distinguished by its unique dual-pathway structure (BA/BS)
University of Chicago
Chicago, IL · Private · NU #11 · Department of Geophysical Sciences (Environmental Science track) / Department of Environmental Policy & Planning (Environmental Studies track)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Planning, Geophysical Sciences
Research: Climate Change and Energy Policy, Urban Environmental Systems, Environmental Economics and Inequality
The Environmental Science and Studies program at UChicago is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on economic theory, quantitative analysis, and rigorou
The University of Chicago's Environmental Science program is a flagship offering due to its unique integration of rigoro
Columbia University
New York, NY · Private · NU #13 · Earth and Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Atmospheric Science, Biological Oceanography, Climate Change, Environmental Policy
Research: Climate Change Science, Urban Ecology, Atmospheric Chemistry
The program is distinguished by its rigorous scientific foundation combined with a strong focus on policy and urban applications, leveraging Columbia'
Columbia's Environmental Science program is a national leader, anchored by the prestigious Earth Institute and Lamont-Do
Smith College
Northampton, MA · Private · LAC #14 · Environmental Science and Sustainability Program (ESSP)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Sustainability Studies, Science & Society
Research: Environmental Justice and Policy, Ecological Restoration and Conservation Biology, Climate Change Impacts on Human Systems
The Environmental Science and Sustainability Program at Smith College is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences with social scie
Smith College's Environmental Science program is a national leader within the liberal arts sector, distinguished by its
University of California, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA · Public · NU #15 · Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences (EPSS) within the Division of Physical Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Atmospheric Science, Hydrology, Oceanography, Planetary Science
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Dynamics, Hydrology and Water Resources, Planetary Geology and Space Weather
The Environmental Science program at UCLA is distinguished by its rigorous focus on Earth System Science, blending physical sciences with policy appli
UCLA's Environmental Science program is a nationally recognized leader, particularly in Earth System Science and climate
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA · Public · NU #17 · Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management (ESPM)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Economics & Policy, Environmental Planning, Ecology
Research: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Sustainable Food Systems, Urban Ecology and Planning
The ESPM department at UC Berkeley is a global leader in interdisciplinary environmental studies, uniquely blending natural sciences with social polic
UC Berkeley's ESPM department is a globally recognized leader that uniquely blends natural sciences with social policy,
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT · Private · LAC #19 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Politics, Environmental Humanities, Earth Systems Science
Research: Climate Change History and Paleoclimatology, Political Ecology and Environmental Justice, Conservation Biology and Ecosystem Management
Middlebury's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, allowing
Middlebury's Environmental Studies program is a nationally distinctive flagship offering, renowned for its rigorous inte
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI · Public · NU #21 · Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) within the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, Sustainability Studies
Research: Climate Change Ecology, Conservation Biology, Urban Ecology
The program at U-M is distinctive for its deep integration with the university's extensive field stations, such as the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and
The University of Michigan's Environmental Science program is a national leader, distinguished by its extensive field st
Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, MO · Private · NU #21 · Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences (within the Faculty of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geology, Ecology, Environmental Policy
Research: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Biogeochemistry and Climate Change, Environmental Policy and Governance
The program is distinguished by its dual BA/BS tracks and the unique Tyson Research Center, a 2,000-acre field station that provides unparalleled acce
Washington University in St. Louis offers a premier Environmental Science program distinguished by the unique Tyson Rese
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC · Public · NU #27 · Department of Environmental Sciences (within the College of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Environmental Biology, Environmental Policy and Management
Research: Climate Change and Global Ecology, Water Resources and Hydrology, Environmental Policy and Economics
The Environmental Science program at UNC Chapel Hill is distinguished by its rigorous scientific foundation combined with a strong emphasis on policy
UNC Chapel Hill's Environmental Science program is a nationally recognized leader, particularly renowned for its interdi
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, CA · Public · NU #29 · Environmental Science & Policy (ESP) Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geosciences, Environmental Policy and Management
Research: Marine Ecology and Conservation, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Science & Policy program at UCSD is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences with social science policy analysis
UCSD's Environmental Science & Policy program is a national leader, uniquely leveraging the world-renowned Scripps Insti
University of California, Davis
Davis, CA · Public · NU #33 · College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Soil Science, Water Resources
Research: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Ecological Restoration and Conservation Biology, Water Resource Management and Hydrology
The Environmental Science program at UC Davis is distinguished by its deep integration with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, of
UC Davis is a globally recognized leader in agricultural and environmental sciences, consistently ranking among the top
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL · Public · NU #33 · Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS) within the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Atmospheric Science, Earth Systems Science, Environmental Geology, Hydrology
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Dynamics, Hydrology and Water Resources, Environmental Geology and Geochemistry
The Environmental Science program at UIUC is distinguished by its rigorous BS track within the EAPS department, offering deep specialization in atmosp
UIUC's Environmental Science program is a nationally recognized leader, particularly in Atmospheric Science and Hydrolog
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI · Public · NU #39 · Department of Environmental Studies (within the College of Letters & Science)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Policy and Management, Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geoscience
Research: Water Resources and Hydrology, Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Department of Environmental Studies at UW-Madison is a leader in interdisciplinary environmental education, uniquely bridging natural sciences, so
The Department of Environmental Studies at UW-Madison is a nationally recognized leader, anchored by the prestigious Nel
University of California, Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA · Public · NU #39 · Department of Environmental Science (College of Letters and Science)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geosciences, Marine Science
Research: Marine Conservation and Ecology, Climate Change Biology, Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology
The UCSB Environmental Science program is distinguished by its deep integration with the university's world-renowned marine science research, offering
UCSB's Environmental Science program is a national leader, particularly in marine science and ecology, leveraging world-
University of Washington
Seattle, WA · Public · NU #46 · School of Environmental and Forest Sciences (SEFS) / Department of Earth & Space Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Forest Resources, Marine Affairs, Natural Resources
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Forest Ecosystem Management, Marine Conservation and Policy
The University of Washington's Environmental Science program is distinguished by its world-class strength in Atmospheric Sciences and Marine Affairs,
The University of Washington's Environmental Science program is a nationally top-tier offering, particularly renowned fo

★★ Strong Programs

Williams College
Williamstown, MA · Private · LAC #1 · Environmental Science and Sustainability
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Sustainability Studies
Research: Ecological restoration and conservation biology, Climate change impacts on terrestrial ecosystems, Sustainable resource management and policy
The Environmental Science and Sustainability program at Williams is distinguished by its rigorous Oxford-style tutorial system, where students engage
Williams is the #1 ranked liberal arts college, but its Environmental Science program is not a top-15 national leader in
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA · Public · LAC #1 · College of Science and Mathematics
2yr Earnings: $59,124 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Sustainable Agriculture and Rangeland Management, Watershed Science and Hydrology, Marine Ecology and Conservation
The Environmental Science and Studies programs at Cal Poly SLO are distinguished by the university's signature 'Learn by Doing' philosophy, requiring
Cal Poly SLO's Environmental Science program is highly regarded for its unique 'Learn by Doing' philosophy and extensive
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA · Public · LAC #2 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $37,208 1yr: $33,271 Grads/yr: 119
Tracks: Environmental Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geology, Ecology and Conservation
Research: Water Resources and Hydrology, Coastal Ecology and Marine Conservation, Urban Environmental Health
The Environmental Science program at SDSU leverages its location in Southern California to provide unique field-based learning in coastal, desert, and
SDSU's Environmental Science program leverages its R1 status and unique Southern California location to offer high-quali
Amherst College
Amherst, MA · Private · LAC #2 · Environmental Science and Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Political Economy
Amherst's Environmental Science and Studies program is distinguished by its Open Curriculum, allowing students to tailor a rigorous, interdisciplinary
While Amherst is a top-tier liberal arts college, its Environmental Science program, though excellent, does not rank in
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore, PA · Private · LAC #3 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Politics, Environmental Science and Technology
Research: Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Food Systems
Swarthmore's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, allowing
Swarthmore is a top liberal arts college, but its Environmental Studies program is not a top-15 national leader in resea
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA · Public · LAC #4 · Natural Sciences Division
2yr Earnings: $34,298 1yr: $29,965 Grads/yr: 41
Tracks: Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Geology, Ecology
Research: Coastal and Marine Ecology, Environmental Policy and Management, Geological Hazards and Coastal Processes
The Environmental Science program at CSULB leverages its unique location on the Pacific Coast to offer specialized training in marine ecology and coas
CSULB's Environmental Science program leverages its unique Pacific Coast location to offer specialized training in marin
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA · Public · LAC #5 · Department of Geography
2yr Earnings: $48,041 1yr: $42,783 Grads/yr: 70
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geography (with Environmental focus), Earth Systems
Research: Urban Environmental Justice, Water Resources and Hydrology, Climate Change Adaptation
The Environmental Science program at SJSU leverages its Silicon Valley location to provide unique internships in tech-driven sustainability and urban
SJSU's Environmental Science program is a regional powerhouse with unique access to NASA-level research via the ASPIRE i
Pomona College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #5 · Environmental Science Program (Interdisciplinary)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Conservation Biology, Climate Change and Global Ecology, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Science program at Pomona is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and policy, supported by
Pomona is a top liberal arts college with a strong program, but it is not a top-15 national leader in Environmental Scie
Carleton College
Northfield, MN · Private · LAC #8 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Politics, Science and Technology Studies
Research: Restoration Ecology, Environmental Justice and Policy, Sustainable Food Systems
The Environmental Studies program at Carleton is distinctive for its rigorous integration of scientific inquiry with social science and policy analysi
Carleton's Environmental Studies program is a distinctive and highly regarded offering that uniquely bridges rigorous sc
California State University, Northridge
Northridge, CA · Public · LAC #8 · Department of Earth Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrology
Research: Hydrology and Water Resources, Geological Hazards and Seismology, Environmental Chemistry and Pollution
The Environmental Science program at CSUN is distinctively focused on practical application, leveraging its location in the Los Angeles basin to offer
The program leverages CSUN's strategic location in the Los Angeles basin to offer a distinctive, high-quality curriculum
California State University, Chico
Chico, CA · Public · LAC #9 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $28,816 1yr: $32,134 Grads/yr: 25
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Management, Water Resources
Research: Watershed Ecology and Hydrology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Management
The program is distinguished by its direct integration with the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve, the largest ecological reserve in the CSU system,
The program is distinguished by its unique on-campus ecological reserve and deep integration with California's water and
California State University, Sacramento
Sacramento, CA · Public · LAC #10 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $38,018 1yr: $39,231 Grads/yr: 69
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology and Conservation Biology, Water Resources
Research: Water Resources Management, Urban Ecology and Land Use, Environmental Toxicology
The Environmental Science program at Sacramento State leverages its location in the state capital to provide unique access to policy-making and govern
The program leverages Sacramento's status as the state capital to offer unique access to high-level government internshi
Fresno State
Fresno, CA · Public · LAC #11 · Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 2
Tracks: Environmental Science, Natural Resources Management, Ecology
Research: Water Resource Management and Hydrology, Soil Health and Sustainable Agriculture, Native Plant Ecology and Restoration
The Environmental Science program at Fresno State is deeply rooted in the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences, offering a practical, field-based a
The program leverages Fresno State's agricultural heritage to offer a highly specialized, field-based curriculum with de
Harvey Mudd College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #12 · Environmental Science and Studies (often administered through the Environmental Science major or as a concentration within Biology/Chemistry)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Climate Science (via Joint Programs: Chemistry & Climate, Biology & Climate, CS & Climate)
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Chemistry, Ecological Restoration and Native Plant Systems, Air Quality and Environmental Health
Harvey Mudd College offers a rigorous BS in Environmental Science that uniquely integrates deep STEM training with interdisciplinary climate solutions
Harvey Mudd's Environmental Science program leverages its elite STEM foundation and unique interdisciplinary joint major
Sonoma State University
Rohnert Park, CA · Public · LAC #12 · Department of Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: $30,305 1yr: $36,533 Grads/yr: 21
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology and Conservation, Sustainability Science
Research: Wine Industry Sustainability and Viticulture, California Water Resources and Hydrology, Coastal and Riparian Ecosystem Restoration
The Environmental Studies program at Sonoma State is distinctive for its deep integration with the region's wine industry, offering unique courses on
Sonoma State's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its unique integration with the regional wine industry a
Brown University
Providence, RI · Private · NU #13 · Department of Earth, Environmental & Planetary Sciences (EEPS)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Science, Planetary Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Biogeochemical Cycles, Environmental Justice and Policy
The program is distinctive for its integration within the Open Curriculum, allowing students to design a highly personalized path combining hard scien
Brown's Environmental Science program leverages its prestigious Open Curriculum to offer a uniquely flexible and interdi
Wesleyan University
Middletown, CT · Private · LAC #14 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Ecology and Conservation Biology
Research: Environmental Justice and Policy, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, Ecological Economics
The Environmental Studies program at Wesleyan is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, reflec
The Environmental Studies program at Wesleyan is a distinctive flagship-level offering within the liberal arts context,
Dartmouth College
Hanover, NH · Private · NU #15 · Department of Earth Sciences (Environmental Science track) & Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (with environmental focus), Earth Sciences
Research: Global Change Ecology, Environmental Policy and Governance, Biogeochemistry and Watershed Science
Dartmouth's environmental programs are distinguished by the unique Winter Term (I-Term), which allows students to conduct intensive field research or
Dartmouth's Environmental Science program is a standout feature of the university, distinguished by its unique Winter Te
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame, IN · Private · NU #18 · Department of Environmental Science and Engineering (within the College of Arts and Letters)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Sustainability
Research: Environmental Ethics and Theology, Sustainable Food Systems and Agriculture, Water Resource Management
The Environmental Science program at Notre Dame is distinctive for its rigorous integration of scientific inquiry with ethical reasoning and Catholic
Notre Dame's Environmental Science program is a distinctive 'strong' offering due to its unique integration of rigorous
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, TN · Private · NU #18 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (College of Arts & Science)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geology, Earth Systems
Research: Hydrology and Water Resources, Biogeochemistry and Climate Change, Ecological Restoration and Conservation
The Environmental Science program at Vanderbilt is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum within the College of Arts & Science, emphasizing quant
Vanderbilt's Environmental Science program is highly regarded for its rigorous quantitative curriculum, specialized rese
Rice University
Houston, TX · Private · NU #18 · Department of Earth Science (within the Wiess School of Natural Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geology, Atmospheric Science, Oceanography
Research: Climate Change and Global Warming, Hydrogeology and Water Resources, Coastal Geomorphology and Sea-Level Rise
The program distinguishes itself through its deep integration with Houston's energy and environmental sectors, offering unique fieldwork opportunities
Rice's Environmental Science program leverages its unique location in Houston to offer exceptional research opportunitie
Washington and Lee University
Lexington, VA · Private · LAC #19 · Environmental Studies Program (interdisciplinary)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Sustainability
Research: Environmental Law and Policy, Ecological Restoration, Sustainable Energy Systems
The Environmental Studies program at W&L is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on the intersection of science, law, and policy, leveraging the univers
The program leverages W&L's renowned Law, Justice, and Society focus to create a distinctive interdisciplinary niche in
Grinnell College
Grinnell, IA · Private · LAC #19 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Society, Earth Systems Science
Research: Ecological Restoration, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Agriculture Systems
The Environmental Studies program at Grinnell College is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on independent, faculty-mentored research through the MAPs
Grinnell's Environmental Studies program is highly distinctive due to its rigorous MAPs research requirement and interdi
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA · Private · NU #21 · Department of Engineering and Public Policy (EPP) / Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Sustainability Studies
Research: Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainability Science, Climate Change Economics
CMU's Environmental Science program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of quantitative analysis, policy studies, and the liberal arts, primar
CMU's Environmental Science program is highly distinctive due to its rigorous integration of quantitative analysis, poli
Georgetown University
Washington, DC · Private · NU #24 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (within the College of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Systems, Sustainability Science
Research: Urban sustainability and resilience, Environmental policy and governance, Geochemistry and climate change impacts
The program uniquely blends rigorous natural science with policy analysis, leveraging Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C. Students benefit from
Georgetown has a unique policy focus, but its Environmental Science program is not a top-15 national research leader.
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA · Public · NU #24 · Environmental Sciences & Policy (ESP) Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Geosciences, Environmental Policy and Society
Research: Watershed Hydrology and Water Quality, Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Sciences & Policy program at UVA is distinctive for its rigorous integration of hard sciences with public policy, allowing students
UVA's Environmental Sciences & Policy program is a distinctive, high-quality offering that leverages the university's el
Emory University
Atlanta, GA · Private · NU #24 · Department of Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Management, Earth Systems
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity, Environmental Health and Toxicology
The Environmental Science program at Emory is distinctive for its rigorous BS track that integrates natural sciences with policy and public health, le
Emory's Environmental Science program leverages unique institutional assets like the CDC and Woodruff School of Public H
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA · Private · NU #27 · Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies, Earth Systems
Research: Urban Ecology and Sustainability, Climate Change Adaptation, Environmental Justice and Policy
The program distinguishes itself through its deep integration with Los Angeles' unique urban challenges, offering a curriculum that blends hard scienc
The USC Environmental Science program leverages the university's prestigious interdisciplinary 'School of Schools' model
Colorado College
Colorado Springs, CO · Private · LAC #29 · Environmental Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 43
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Management, Sustainability
Research: Climate Change and Regional Hydrology, Conservation Biology and Wildlife Ecology, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Program at Colorado College is distinctive for its integration with the Block Plan, allowing students to immerse themselves in inten
Colorado College's Environmental Program leverages its distinctive Block Plan to offer exceptional fieldwork and interdi
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL · Public · NU #30 · Department of Environmental Science and Policy (within the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Ecology, Water Resources
Research: Wetland Ecology and Restoration, Water Quality and Hydrology, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Science program at UF is distinguished by its strong integration with the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and its proximit
UF is a top-tier offering, but it is not a top-15 national leader in Environmental Science specifically.
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, TX · Public · NU #30 · Department of Geological Sciences (Environmental Science track) / Environmental Science Program (Interdisciplinary)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geological Sciences, Earth Systems
Research: Hydrogeology and Water Resources, Climate Change and Paleoclimatology, Ecological Restoration and Conservation Biology
The Environmental Science program at UT Austin is distinguished by its rigorous scientific foundation within the College of Natural Sciences, offering
UT Austin's Environmental Science program is a highly respected, research-intensive offering within the College of Natur
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA · Public · NU #33 · Department of Earth System Science (ESS) within the Donald Bren School of Environmental Sciences and Management
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth System Science, Marine Science, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
Research: Coastal and Marine Ecology, Global Change Biology, Earth System Modeling
The program is distinguished by its integration of rigorous earth system science with practical environmental management, housed within the prestigiou
UC Irvine's program is prestigious but not a top-15 national leader in Environmental Science specifically.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA · Public · NU #33 · School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Systems, Atmospheric Science
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Water Resources and Hydrology, Environmental Modeling and Data Science
Georgia Tech's Environmental Science program is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on quantitative analysis, engineering applications, and data scienc
Georgia Tech's Environmental Science program leverages the university's elite engineering and data science reputation to
Mount Holyoke College
South Hadley, MA · Private · LAC #34 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: $28,598 1yr: $25,318 Grads/yr: 46
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Justice, Earth Systems Science
Research: Climate Justice and Environmental Policy, Ecological Restoration and Conservation Biology, Sustainable Food Systems and Agriculture
Mount Holyoke's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of science, policy, and social justice, anchored by the Mill
Mount Holyoke's Environmental Studies program is a distinctive flagship offering within the liberal arts sector, leverag
Tufts University
Medford, MA · Private · NU #37 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (within the School of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Systems, Sustainability Science, Geography
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Water Resources and Hydrology, Environmental Policy and Governance
Tufts' Environmental Science program is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on interdisciplinary problem-solving, bridging hard sciences with public po
Tufts' Environmental Science program is highly regarded for its unique interdisciplinary approach bridging hard sciences
Boston University
Boston, MA · Private · NU #41 · College of Arts & Sciences (CAS) - Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Systems, Marine Science, Geology
Research: Coastal and Marine Science, Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, Urban Ecology and Sustainability
The Environmental Science program at Boston University is distinguished by its strong focus on urban and coastal systems, leveraging the university's
Boston University's Environmental Science program leverages its unique coastal location and prestigious research centers
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH · Public · NU #41 · School of Earth Sciences (within the College of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geography, Earth Systems
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Hydrology and Water Resources, Soil Science and Land Management
The Environmental Science program at Ohio State is distinguished by its strong integration of earth sciences with policy and public affairs, leveragin
Ohio State's Environmental Science program leverages world-class facilities like the Byrd Polar and Climate Research Cen
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
New Brunswick, NJ · Public · NU #41 · Department of Environmental Sciences (within the School of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Marine Science
Research: Marine Science and Coastal Ecology, Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
The Environmental Sciences program at Rutgers is distinguished by its world-class Marine Science concentration, leveraging the university's extensive
Rutgers is renowned, but its Environmental Science program is not a top-15 national leader compared to specialized progr
University of Maryland, College Park
College Park, MD · Public · NU #44 · Department of Geology and Earth System Science Interdisciplinary Program (ESSIP) / Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecological Restoration, Environmental Policy and Management, Hydrology and Water Resources, Soil Science
Research: Climate Change and Global Ecology, Water Resources and Hydrology, Soil Biogeochemistry
The University of Maryland's Environmental Science program is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum and deep integration with the Earth System S
UMD is a national leader, but it is not a top-15 national leader in Environmental Science specifically.
University of Rochester
Rochester, NY · Private · NU #44 · Department of Environmental Science and Engineering (within the School of Arts & Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Biology, Environmental Geology, Environmental Physics
Research: Water resource management and hydrology, Atmospheric chemistry and climate change, Ecological restoration and biodiversity
The University of Rochester's Environmental Science program is distinctive for its rigorous BS curriculum that integrates deep scientific inquiry with
The University of Rochester's Environmental Science program is a strong offering due to its rigorous BS curriculum and a
University of the South
Sewanee, TN · Private · LAC #45 · Department of Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: $25,774 1yr: — Grads/yr: 25
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Conservation Biology
Research: Sustainable Forestry, Carbon Resource Monetization, Conservation Biology
The Environmental Studies program at Sewanee is distinctive for its integration of rigorous liberal arts education with a 13,000-acre working forest a
The Environmental Studies program at Sewanee is a distinctive strength due to its unique integration of rigorous liberal
Kenyon College
Gambier, OH · Private · LAC #45 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 19
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Science and Nature Writing (Interdisciplinary)
Research: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Governance, Science Communication and Nature Writing
Kenyon's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its dual focus on rigorous scientific inquiry and the humanities, particularly through its r
Kenyon's Environmental Studies program is a distinctive flagship offering within the liberal arts landscape, renowned fo
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC · Private · NU #46 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Policy and Management, Sustainability
Research: Environmental Chemistry, Sustainability Science, Ecological Restoration
The Environmental Studies program at Wake Forest is distinctive for its integration of rigorous scientific inquiry with a strong focus on ethics, lead
Wake Forest's Environmental Studies program is a standout offering that distinguishes itself through the unique integrat
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN · Public · NU #46 · Department of Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences (EAPS) within the College of Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Atmospheric Sciences, Earth Systems, Environmental Engineering (via College of Engineering), Geology
Research: Atmospheric Chemistry and Climate Change, Hydrology and Water Resources Management, Geochemistry and Planetary Science
The Environmental Science program at Purdue is distinguished by its rigorous scientific foundation within the College of Science, offering deep specia
Purdue's Environmental Science program leverages the university's renowned engineering infrastructure and top-tier resea
University of Georgia
Athens, GA · Public · NU #46 · College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resources Management, Conservation Biology
Research: Wetland Ecology and Restoration, Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture, Conservation Biology
The Environmental Science program at UGA is distinguished by its strong integration with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, offer
UGA's program is highly regarded and has strong research output; upgrading to 'strong' reflects its national standing.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA · Private · NU #46 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (within the College of Arts and Sciences)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Geology, Hydrology, Atmospheric Science
Research: Hydrogeology and Water Resources, Climate Change Impacts and Resilience, Geochemistry and Contaminant Transport
Lehigh's Environmental Science program distinguishes itself through a rigorous BS curriculum that heavily emphasizes quantitative analysis and fieldwo
Lehigh's Environmental Science program is a standout offering due to its rigorous quantitative focus and unique pipeline
St. Olaf College
Northfield, MN · Private · LAC #50 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: $26,896 1yr: $20,439 Grads/yr: 31
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Politics, Sustainability Science
Research: Wetland Ecology and Restoration, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
The Environmental Studies program at St. Olaf is distinctive for its integration of rigorous scientific inquiry with a strong emphasis on ethics, poli
St. Olaf's Environmental Studies program is a distinctive draw for liberal arts students, featuring a unique curriculum
DePauw University
Greencastle, IN · Private · LAC #50 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 5
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Ecological restoration and conservation, Water quality and hydrology, Sustainable energy and climate change mitigation
DePauw's Environmental Science program distinguishes itself through its rigorous BS track and the unique Environmental Fellows Program, which allows s
DePauw's Environmental Science program is a standout feature of the university, distinguished by its rigorous BS track a
University of California, Riverside
Riverside, CA · Public · NU #76 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $30,409 1yr: $33,304 Grads/yr: 42
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Chemistry, Soil Science, Water Resources
Research: Water Resources and Hydrology, Soil Science and Biogeochemistry, Ecological Restoration
The Department of Environmental Science at UCR is distinguished by its strong focus on water resources and soil science, leveraging the university's l
UCR's Environmental Science program is a regional powerhouse with nationally recognized faculty in water resources and s
University of California, Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz, CA · Public · NU #82 · Environmental Science & Management (ESM)
2yr Earnings: $29,913 1yr: $28,054 Grads/yr: 153
Tracks: Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Marine Sciences, Soil Science, Water Resources
Research: Marine Conservation and Ecology, Climate Change Impacts on Ecosystems, Watershed Management and Hydrology
The Environmental Science & Management program at UCSC is distinctive for its deep integration with the university's residential college system, allow
UCSC's Environmental Science program is a distinctive draw with nationally recognized faculty and deep integration into

★ Solid Programs

United States Military Academy
West Point, NY · Public · LAC #1 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering
Research: Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Water Resources and Hydrology, Ecological Restoration and Management
The Environmental Science program at West Point is uniquely designed to prepare cadets for leadership roles in environmental stewardship within the U.
West Point's program is highly distinctive but not a top-tier national leader in Environmental Science.
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Pomona, CA · Public · LAC #3 · College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Sustainable Agriculture and Soil Health, Water Resource Management and Hydrology, Urban Ecology and Environmental Resiliency
The Environmental Science and Studies programs at Cal Poly Pomona are distinguished by their 'Learn by Doing' philosophy, offering extensive hands-on
Cal Poly Pomona offers a solid program with practical focus, but it lacks the national research prominence of top-tier f
United States Air Force Academy
Colorado Springs, CO · Public · LAC #3 · Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Systems
Research: Water Resources Management, Air Quality and Climate Change, Sustainable Infrastructure
The Environmental Science program at the USAFA is unique in its integration of rigorous engineering principles with military leadership training. Unli
While distinctive due to its military mission and focus on environmental engineering, it lacks the broad national resear
United States Coast Guard Academy
New London, CT · Public · LAC #4 · Department of Engineering and the Environment
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science
Research: Marine pollution and remediation, Coastal ecosystem dynamics, Climate change impacts on maritime infrastructure
The Environmental Science program at the US Coast Guard Academy is distinctive for its direct integration with maritime operations and national securi
The program is highly distinctive due to its unique integration of science and maritime operations, but it lacks the bro
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME · Private · LAC #5 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Coastal Studies
Research: Coastal Ecology and Marine Conservation, Environmental Policy and Governance, Climate Change Impacts
Bowdoin's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its integration of the Schiller Coastal Studies Center, offering unparalleled field-based l
Bowdoin is a strong liberal arts college, but its Environmental Studies program is not among the top national leaders in
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA · Public · LAC #6 · College of Liberal Arts
2yr Earnings: $30,409 1yr: $34,794 Grads/yr: 49
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Management, Geography (with Environmental focus), Hydrology
Research: Urban Ecology, Environmental Justice, Water Resources Management
The Environmental Science program at SFSU is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on urban ecology and environmental justice, leveraging the university'
SFSU's Environmental Science program is highly distinctive due to its specialized focus, but it lacks the national ranki
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA · Public · LAC #7 · College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation Biology
Research: Southern California Water Resources, Urban Ecology and Conservation, Environmental Toxicology
The Environmental Science program at CSUF is distinguished by its strong focus on Southern California's unique environmental challenges, particularly
The program demonstrates above-average strength through specialized focus but lacks the national research footprint for
Claremont McKenna College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #8 · Environmental Studies Program (often housed within the Social Sciences or as an interdisciplinary program)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Economics, Earth Systems Science
Research: Climate Change and Sustainability, Environmental Policy and Governance, Ecological Restoration and Conservation
Claremont McKenna College offers a distinctive Environmental Studies program that uniquely blends rigorous natural science with the college's renowned
CMM's program is strong within the liberal arts context but lacks the national research ranking to be considered 'strong
Vassar College
Poughkeepsie, NY · Private · LAC #12 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Law, Science and Technology Studies
Research: Environmental Justice, Ecological Restoration, Sustainability Science
The Environmental Studies program at Vassar is distinctive for its rigorous emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry, blending natural sciences with soci
Vassar's program is distinctive but lacks the national ranking for 'strong' status.
California State University, Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA · Public · LAC #13 · College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Geography (with environmental focus), Earth Science
Research: Urban Ecology and Green Infrastructure, Water Quality and Watershed Management in Southern California, Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control
The Environmental Science program at Cal State LA is distinguished by its strong focus on urban ecology and environmental justice, leveraging the univ
Cal State LA leverages its unique location in Los Angeles to offer a good program, but it is not a top-tier national lea
Hamilton College
Clinton, NY · Private · LAC #14 · Environmental Studies Program (interdisciplinary)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Ecology and Conservation Biology
Research: Watershed Ecology and Hydrology, Environmental Justice and Policy, Conservation Biology and Land Management
Hamilton's Environmental Studies program is distinctive for its rigorous senior thesis requirement and flexible Open Curriculum, allowing students to
Hamilton's program is well-regarded but not a national leader in Environmental Science rankings.
Davidson College
Davidson, NC · Private · LAC #14 · Environmental Studies Program (interdisciplinary)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Society, Earth Systems Science
Research: Wetland ecology and restoration, Environmental policy and governance, Global health and environmental justice
The Environmental Studies program at Davidson is distinctive for its rigorous interdisciplinary approach, requiring a senior thesis that bridges scien
Davidson is a top liberal arts college, but its Environmental Studies program is not a national leader in rankings or re
Cal Poly Humboldt
Arcata, CA · Public · LAC #14 · Department of Natural Resources & Sciences
2yr Earnings: $29,374 1yr: $25,243
Tracks: Environmental Science (BS), Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (BS), Natural Resource Management (BS), Critical Agriculture Studies & Agroecology (BA)
Research: Wildfire Ecology and Mitigation, Coastal and Marine Conservation, Indigenous Land Stewardship and Tribal Relations
Cal Poly Humboldt's Environmental Science program stands out as part of Northern California's first polytechnic university, emphasizing hands-on field
While a regional powerhouse with unique coastal access, Cal Poly Humboldt does not have the national research footprint
Barnard College
New York, NY · Private · LAC #14 · Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Earth Science, Sustainability Studies
Research: Climate Change and Atmospheric Science, Urban Ecology and Sustainability, Hydrology and Water Resources
The Environmental Science program at Barnard is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum, which leverages the college's deep partnership with Colum
Barnard offers a high-quality program, but it is not a national leader in the field compared to the top-tier flagship pr
California State University, East Bay
Hayward, CA · Public · LAC #15 · College of Science and Mathematics
2yr Earnings: $52,107 1yr: $39,625 Grads/yr: 19
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology
Research: Genome sequencing of native flora (Green Biome Institute), Regional ecology and conservation biology, Environmental chemistry and water quality
The Environmental Science program at CSUEB is distinguished by its integration with the Green Biome Institute, offering rare undergraduate opportuniti
While the program distinguishes itself through unique undergraduate research opportunities, it is not a top-tier nationa
California State University San Marcos
San Marcos, CA · Public · LAC #16 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $31,705 Grads/yr: 50
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Water Resources and Hydrology, Coastal Ecology and Conservation, Sustainable Agriculture and Land Use
The Environmental Science program at CSUSM emphasizes hands-on, real-world field experiences in the diverse ecosystems of Southern California. It is d
The program leverages unique regional ecosystems for hands-on fieldwork, but it is not a top-tier national leader.
California State University, Monterey Bay
Seaside, CA · Public · LAC #17 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: $32,569 1yr: $28,908 Grads/yr: 80
Tracks: Marine Science, Sustainability, Ecology and Conservation
Research: Coastal and Marine Conservation, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Environmental Policy and Community Engagement
The Environmental Studies program at CSUMB is distinctive for its location-based curriculum, utilizing the Monterey Bay coastline as a living laborato
CSUMB leverages its unique location as a 'living laboratory,' but it is not a top-tier national leader in the field.
California State University, San Bernardino
San Bernardino, CA · Public · LAC #18 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $21,508 1yr: $27,045 Grads/yr: 18
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Water Resources and Hydrology, Soil Science and Land Management, Environmental Policy and Planning
The Environmental Science program at CSUSB is distinctively focused on practical fieldwork and regional environmental challenges, particularly water r
CSUSB's Environmental Science program is a competent offering with strong regional relevance and practical fieldwork opp
California State University, Stanislaus
Turlock, CA · Public · LAC #19 · College of Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science
Research: Water Resources Management, Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Chemistry
The BS in Environmental Science at Cal State Stanislaus distinguishes itself through a heavy emphasis on field-based learning, utilizing the universit
The Environmental Science program at Cal State Stanislaus is a competent offering with strong regional relevance due to
California State University, Bakersfield
Bakersfield, CA · Public · LAC #20 · Department of Biological Sciences
2yr Earnings: $58,673 1yr: — Grads/yr: 9
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation Biology
Research: Avian ecology and airbase disruption impacts, Wetland conservation and restoration, Environmental data modeling and high-volume computing
The Environmental Science program at CSUB is distinguished by its unique focus on the intersection of local geography, airbase operations, and avian c
While the program demonstrates above-average strength through unique high-impact projects, it lacks the national researc
California State University Channel Islands
Camarillo, CA · Public · LAC #21 · School of Natural Sciences
2yr Earnings: $42,712 1yr: $41,104
Tracks: Environmental Science, Conservation Biology
Research: Coastal and Marine Ecology, Watershed Management and Restoration, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems
The Environmental Science program at CSUCI is distinctive for its heavy emphasis on field-based learning, particularly leveraging the university's pro
The program leverages a unique location-based advantage with Marine Science, but it is not a national leader in the broa
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA · Private · LAC #22 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 14
Tracks: Environmental Science (Science Track), Environmental Policy and Society (Social Science Track)
Research: Environmental Policy and Law, Urban Sustainability and Planning, Conservation Biology and Ecology
The Environmental Studies program at the University of Richmond is distinctive for its dual-track approach, allowing students to choose between a rigo
Richmond's dual-track structure is distinctive, but the program is not a top-tier national leader.
California State University, Dominguez Hills
Carson, CA · Public · LAC #22 · Department of Natural Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology and Conservation
Research: Urban Ecology and Conservation, Environmental Justice in Southern California, Water Resource Management and Sustainability
The Environmental Science program at CSUDH emphasizes practical application and environmental justice, leveraging the university's location in Souther
The program offers a competent and distinct curriculum focused on environmental justice and urban ecology, providing dec
Colgate University
Hamilton, NY · Private · LAC #22 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $44,942 1yr: — Grads/yr: 37
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology and Conservation Biology
Research: Freshwater Ecology and Limnology, Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Conservation Biology and Land Use Change
The Environmental Science program at Colgate is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum that emphasizes field-based learning and quantitative anal
Colgate's BS program is rigorous but does not rank among the top national programs for this major.
Haverford College
Haverford, PA · Private · LAC #24 · Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 12
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Society, Earth Systems
Research: Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Political Ecology, Biogeochemistry and Global Change
The Environmental Science program at Haverford is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences, social sciences, and quantitative meth
Haverford offers a strong program within the liberal arts context but lacks the national research ranking for 'strong' s
Colby College
Waterville, ME · Private · LAC #25 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $37,156 Grads/yr: 52
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Sustainability
Research: Ecological Restoration, Environmental Policy and Governance, Climate Change Adaptation
The Environmental Studies program at Colby is distinctive for its rigorous integration of science and policy, supported by a flexible curriculum that
Colby offers a solid program, but it is not a national leader in Environmental Science rankings.
Bates College
Lewiston, ME · Private · LAC #26 · Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $26,353 1yr: $22,883 Grads/yr: 40
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Food Systems
Bates College offers a rigorous Environmental Science program within its open curriculum, allowing students to tailor their studies with flexibility.
Bates offers a good program, but it lacks the national research footprint and top-tier ranking required for 'strong' in
Macalester College
St. Paul, MN · Private · LAC #26 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $26,444 Grads/yr: 38
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Law, Sustainability and Social Justice
Research: Environmental Justice and Policy, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Urban Ecology and Planning
The Environmental Studies program at Macalester distinguishes itself by integrating rigorous scientific inquiry with a deep commitment to social justi
Macalester's program is highly regarded but lacks the national research footprint for 'strong' status.
College of the Holy Cross
Worcester, MA · Private · LAC #28 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 13
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Conservation Biology, Wetland Ecology, Climate Change Impacts on Freshwater Systems
The Environmental Science program at Holy Cross is distinguished by its rigorous scientific foundation combined with a strong emphasis on ethics and s
Holy Cross has a standout feature, but it is not a top-tier national leader in Environmental Science.
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr, PA · Private · LAC #29 · Environmental Studies Program
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 9
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Ecology
Research: Environmental Justice and Equity, Urban Ecology and Sustainability, Conservation Biology
The Environmental Studies program at Bryn Mawr is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences with social science perspectives, parti
Bryn Mawr offers a quality program, but it is not a national leader in the field compared to flagship institutions.
New York University
New York, NY · Private · NU #30 · Department of Environmental Studies (within the Faculty of Arts and Science)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Policy, Urban Ecology, Science and Technology Studies, Sustainability
Research: Urban Ecology and Sustainability, Environmental Justice and Policy, Climate Change Adaptation
The program is distinctive for its deep integration of environmental science with urban studies, leveraging NYU's location in New York City as a livin
NYU leverages NYC location well, but its Environmental Science program is not a top-tier national leader compared to the
Bucknell University
Lewisburg, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $48,041 1yr: — Grads/yr: 19
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Watershed Ecology and Hydrology, Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology, Conservation Biology and Land Use Planning
The Environmental Science program at Bucknell is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum that blends hard sciences with policy and ethics, heavily
Bucknell's program is good but lacks the national research footprint required for 'strong' or 'flagship' status in this
Lafayette College
Easton, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 13
Tracks: Environmental Chemistry, Ecology and Conservation Biology, Geosciences
Research: Wetland Ecology and Restoration, Environmental Chemistry and Water Quality, Sustainable Energy Systems
The Environmental Science program at Lafayette is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum that integrates a mandatory senior thesis and extensive
Lafayette's program is good but does not rank among the top national programs for this major.
Franklin & Marshall College
Lancaster, PA · Private · LAC #31 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $36,848 1yr: — Grads/yr: 19
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Watershed Ecology and Hydrology, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Science program at Franklin & Marshall is distinguished by its rigorous field-based curriculum and a strong emphasis on interdiscipl
F&M has a good program, but it is not a national leader in Environmental Science rankings.
Occidental College
Los Angeles, CA · Private · LAC #34 · Environmental Science & Studies
2yr Earnings: $37,208 1yr: $29,948 Grads/yr: 19
Tracks: Environmental Science, Urban & Environmental Policy, Ecology
Research: Environmental Justice and Social Equity, Urban Ecology and Sustainability, Marine Conservation and Coastal Science
Occidental's Environmental Science & Studies program is distinctive for its deep integration of scientific rigor with social justice and policy advoca
Occidental's program is distinctive but lacks the national ranking for 'strong' or 'flagship' status.
Pitzer College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #36 · Environmental Analysis
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: $29,150 Grads/yr: 22
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation Biology, Environmental Policy and Politics, Human Ecology
Research: Restoration Ecology, Environmental Justice and Policy, Human Ecology and Sustainability
Pitzer's Environmental Analysis program is distinctive for its rigorous integration of natural sciences with social justice and policy, operating outs
Pitzer's program is distinctive and flagship-level in focus, but it lacks the broad national research ranking for 'flags
Skidmore College
Saratoga Springs, NY · Private · LAC #36 · Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $20,682 1yr: $29,585 Grads/yr: 31
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Environmental Policy and Governance, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Urban Sustainability and Land Use
Skidmore's Environmental Science program distinguishes itself through a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach that blends hard science with policy and
Skidmore's program is a distinctive draw but lacks the national ranking for 'strong' status.
Denison University
Granville, OH · Private · LAC #36 · Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: $28,236 1yr: $27,021 Grads/yr: 17
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Environmental Policy and Governance, Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Sustainability Consulting and Business Applications
The Environmental Science program distinguishes itself through the 'Denison Edge' initiative, offering a unique Sustainability Consulting Credential t
Denison's program is distinctive but lacks the national prominence required for 'strong' status in this major.
Trinity College
Hartford, CT · Private · LAC #36 · Department of Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 13
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy and Society, Sustainability
Research: Urban Ecology and Green Infrastructure, Environmental Justice and Policy, Sustainable Food Systems
The Environmental Studies program at Trinity College is distinctive for its strong integration of scientific inquiry with social justice and policy an
Trinity College's program is a strength but lacks the national ranking for 'strong' status.
Boston College
Chestnut Hill, MA · Private · NU #37 · Morrissey College of Arts and Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Environmental Policy and Governance, Ecological Restoration and Conservation, Climate Change Adaptation
The Environmental Science/Studies program at Boston College distinguishes itself by integrating rigorous scientific inquiry with Jesuit values of soci
BC's program is respectable but lacks the national prominence and specialized ranking of flagship programs like Duke or
Berea College
Berea, KY · Private · LAC #40 · Environmental Science Program (often housed within the Natural Sciences Division)
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Ecology and Conservation, Environmental Policy and Management, Sustainable Agriculture
Research: Appalachian Ecology and Biodiversity, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems, Environmental Justice and Community Engagement
The Environmental Science program at Berea College is distinctive for its deep integration with Appalachian regional issues, offering a unique focus o
Berea has a regional focus and unique mission, but its Environmental Science program is not nationally ranked among the
Trinity University
San Antonio, TX · Private · LAC #40 · Department of Biology and Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 14
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology, Conservation Biology
Research: Watershed Ecology and Hydrology, Urban Sustainability, Conservation Biology
The Environmental Science program at Trinity University distinguishes itself through a rigorous BS curriculum that heavily emphasizes fieldwork and lo
Trinity University's program is a standout feature but not a top-tier national leader.
Union College
Schenectady, NY · Private · LAC #40 · Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 11
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Water Quality and Hydrology, Ecological Restoration, Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology
The Environmental Science program at Union College is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum that integrates heavy laboratory work with extensive
Union College's program is a standout feature but not a top-tier national leader.
Scripps College
Claremont, CA · Private · LAC #44 · Environmental Analysis
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: — Grads/yr: 20
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Environmental Humanities
Research: Environmental Justice, Sustainability and Social Change, Science, Technology, and Society (STS)
Scripps College offers a distinctive Environmental Analysis major that uniquely blends scientific inquiry with social justice, policy, and humanities
Scripps offers a distinctive interdisciplinary program, but it is not a top-tier national leader in Environmental Scienc
Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA · Private · LAC #45 · Environmental Studies
2yr Earnings: $28,598 1yr: $32,617 Grads/yr: 29
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Sustainability
Research: Sustainable Food Systems, Conservation Biology and Ecology, Environmental Policy and Governance
The Environmental Studies program at Dickinson is distinguished by its integration of the 'Dickinson Plan,' which mandates a senior capstone project t
Dickinson offers a quality program, but it is not a top-tier national leader in Environmental Science.
Furman University
Greenville, SC · Private · LAC #45 · Department of Environmental Science
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Environmental Studies
Research: Wetland Ecology and Restoration, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Agriculture and Land Use
The Environmental Science program at Furman is distinguished by its rigorous BS curriculum that seamlessly integrates scientific inquiry with policy a
Furman's program is strong regionally but lacks the national research footprint for 'strong' or 'flagship' status.
University of California, Merced
Merced, CA · Public · NU #60 · School of Natural Sciences
2yr Earnings: — 1yr: —
Tracks: Environmental Science, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Soil Science
Research: Ecological restoration and land management, Water resources and hydrology in the Central Valley, Soil science and biogeochemistry
The Environmental Science program at UC Merced is distinctive for its direct focus on the unique ecological challenges of the San Joaquin Valley, offe
UC Merced's Environmental Science program leverages its unique location in the San Joaquin Valley, but it is not yet a t

College-Fit Major Comparison · CounselorJay · Updated April 2026

Data sources: College Scorecard, US News, CSRankings, institutional websites, expert analysis