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Environmental/Environmental Engineering Technology/Technician

Program Description

Just the Facts

Environmental/Environmental Engineering Technology/Technician. A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals engaged in developing and using indoor and outdoor environmental pollution control systems. Includes instruction in environmental safety principles, testing and sampling procedures, laboratory techniques, instrumentation calibration, safety and protection procedures, equipment maintenance, and report preparation.

This program is available in these options:

  • Certificate / Diploma
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Master's degree

High School Courses

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See the high school courses recommended for programs in this pathway:


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Additional Information

Although a degree in any aspect of engineering might lead to work in environmental protection, some universities have created specific programs in environmental engineering because of a demand for such training.

The issue of education and training is a hot topic in the field. "Some feel that a BS [bachelor of science] in environmental engineering is appropriate for entry into the workforce," says William Knocke. He is the head of the graduate program in environmental engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

"The more traditional approach for the past two decades has been to obtain a BS degree in a broader subject area, such as civil engineering or chemical engineering, then get a more specialized MS [master of science] degree in environmental engineering."

While a master's degree is not mandatory, Knocke says it will improve your employability. "Many employers tend to prefer students who have the MS degree, as these students have more overall educational background when they come to the workforce."

What skills will you have by the time you're done school? "A good environmental engineering graduate should have exposure to...such topic areas as water and wastewater treatment processes, air pollution control, environmental chemistry and microbiology, principles of fluid flow in both surface and groundwater systems, health and safety issues, and environmental regulations," says Knocke.

Computer skills are essential in all engineering careers. "Much of what engineers do today has some link to the computer -- communications, report preparation, actual project design, data analysis, etc. Students with poor levels of computer literacy will find themselves at a competitive disadvantage," says Knocke.

High school students need lots of math and science courses. Calculus, chemistry and physics are important, says Lynn Hildemann. She is the associate chair of the environmental engineering and science program at Stanford University.

Knocke suggests taking earth sciences, biology, computer science and courses that improve written and oral communication. "A key point for success in our field -- and almost any field -- is an ability to write and speak effectively."

Get involved in activities that help you become more well-rounded. "Participating in team activities and learning to contribute as part of a team is important, as well as learning to be a listener," notes Jon Gillies. He is the head of the division of environmental engineering at a university.


Links

Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Environmental Engineers

Environmental Engineering 101
Learn about the history and future of environmental engineering

Engineering K 12 Center
Great site from the American Society for Engineering Education