Sort of confused re environmental courses

JohnButler

Hi all,

I was hoping some experienced souls could shed some light on the vast array of environmental courses on offer.

Firstly just a quick background on me. I'm a stonemason by trade. Certified Forester also, which I worked at for 5 odd years. The last 2 years I've been working as an operations supervisor for a recycling company. It's something I sort of fell into!

What I am wondering is a Bsc in Environmental Management of any use as opposed to a degree in Environmental Science? Or does Env Science have management modules? Does Env Science open more doors and carry more weight?

I understand there are many graduates struggling to find work at the moment but I'm taking the chance that things may pick up in the future or may take the plunge and go back overseas if needed.

I have nearly read the Internet at this stage and am leaning more toward Environmental Management purely because of my current role. But I think really what I'm asking is would I be limiting myself?

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

JB

colin1987

Hi.

I studied Environmental Science.

I think that the environmental management course would set you up for working as the environmental officer for a large company. So you would be dealing with any environmental issues which concern them and making sure that they are compliant with the relevant legislation.
The environmental science course would give you a more general grounding in all aspects of the environmental sector. During the course you may get the opportunity to specialise in whatever area interests you. I choose the energy management and air pollution route, while some friends took the ecology and conservation route.

My course didn't have any specific management modules. But graduates from the course have got work in a management role.

Personally, I don't think you would be limiting yourself too much no matter which course you choose, because the two are so closely linked.

A lecturer told us that when we were talking to companies as prospective employers, we were to convince them that we could save them money by managing their environmental interests, rather then telling them that they should hire us simply because they had to comply with some regulation. I think that the environmental management degree may hold more weight in this regard.

All the best!

fg10291

Hi

Also have a look at the IEMA website. A lot of positions in this field are now looking for candidates to be a member they also run courses