The full form of BSc Environmental Science is Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. It is a three-year undergraduate course. BSc Environmental Science focuses on the environment and all its elements, including the biological, physical, and social facets. The course incorporates components of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, geography, and social sciences.
The admission into this course is done mainly on merit and direct basis but some universities do conduct an entrance exam to finalise potential candidates. BSc Environmental Science entrance exam are SET, CUCET, CUET and NPAT.
BSc Environmental Science eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board. The required subjects may vary, but typically include Physics, Chemistry, Biology and/or Mathematics.
The fees for BSc Environmental Science is INR 20,000 – 3 Lakhs. BSc Environmental Science colleges include Fergusson College, Mount Carmel College, St. Joseph's College, St. Xavier's College, and Ramanujan College among others.
BSc Environmental Science syllabus includes topics on Environmental Science, Ecology, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Chemistry, Environmental Physics, and Environmental Pollution and Control etc.
BSc Environmental Science subjects include Environmental Geology, Geomorphology, Climate Change and Mitigation, Environmental Laws and Policies, Environmental Microbiology and Environmental Impact Assessment etc.
Also Read: BSc Courses after 12th
BSc Environmental Science jobs include Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager, Environmental Educator, Environmental Analyst, and Environmental Researcher etc. BSc Environmental Science salary ranges from INR 3 – 8 LPA.
Some of the top recruiters for this course are Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), World Wildlife Fund (WWF) India, Tata Sustainability Group, Adani Group, Reliance Industries Limited, Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL).
BSc Environmental Science scope includes courses such as MSc Environmental Science, Master of Environmental Management (MEM), and MSc Conservation Biology.
More BSc Courses:
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BSc Environmental Science: Course Details
Details | Particulars |
Course Name | BSc Environmental Science |
Course Level | Undergraduate |
Course Full Form | Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science |
Course Duration | 3 Years |
Course Types | Full time/Distance Education |
Admission Process | Merit/Direct/Entrance based |
Eligibility Criteria | 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board. |
Entrance Exams | |
Course Fees | INR 20,000 – 3 Lakhs. |
Top Colleges | Fergusson College, Mount Carmel College, St. Joseph's College, St. Xavier's College, and Ramanujan College |
Average Salary in India | INR 3 – 8 LPA |
Job Profiles | Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager, Environmental Educator, Environmental Analyst, and Environmental Researcher. |
Top Recruiters | Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), World Wildlife Fund (WWF) India, Tata Sustainability Group, Adani Group, Reliance Industries Limited, Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation and Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL). |
Further Studies | MSc Environmental Science, Master of Environmental Management (MEM), and MSc Conservation Biology. |
What is BSc Environmental Science?
Everything that exists in and around us is referred to as the environment. It includes the air we breathe, the water we drink, the land we live on, and all the living organisms that inhabit the Earth. The environment is essential for supporting life, supplying resources, and preserving the fragile ecosystem.
BSc Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary field that combines scientific knowledge from various disciplines to study the environment and the interactions between humans and the natural world. It encompasses the study of the physical, biological, and social sciences to understand the complex environmental issues we face today and develop sustainable solutions.
Why pursue BSc Environmental Science?
BSc Environmental Science allows an in-depth study of the environment, its resources, living and non-living organisms, and the ecosystem. There are several factors why pursuing a BSc Environmental Science degree in India might be a wise choice. Given below are some of the factors:
- Interdisciplinary Approach: BSc Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary course that incorporates knowledge from the biological, chemical, physical, geological, and social science aspects of environmental science. This multidisciplinary approach allows one to develop a holistic understanding of environmental issues and explore solutions from different perspectives.
- Career Opportunities: The field of environmental science offers a wide range of employment options in government and nonprofit organisations, as well as in businesses, industries, and educational institutions. BSc Environmental Science graduates are in demand due to the increasing global emphasis on environmental preservation and sustainability.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Studying Environmental Science can foster personal and professional growth as it develops critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
- Positive Impact: An individual can make a positive impact on the environment and society by working towards cleaner air and water, protecting natural habitats, or promoting sustainable development. Students with a BSc Environmental Science degree can contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable world with their knowledge.
Who Should pursue BSc Environmental Science?
BSc Environmental Science is the perfect course for people who are passionate about the environment, and its ecosystem. However, it might be a good fit for the following potential candidates:
- Students who were in the science stream in 12th and scored minimum of 50% marks.
- An individual with a genuine passion for the environment, a desire to protect and conserve natural resources, and a keen interest in understanding environmental issues would be the perfect candidate for this course.
- Students who are curious about the natural world and enjoy conducting experiments, collecting data, and applying scientific methods in understanding environmental phenomena.
- People who have a strong aptitude for scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and data analysis are well-suited for this program.
BSc Environmental Science: Course Duration
The duration of BSc Environmental Science in India is 3 years, which is divided into 6 semesters. However, the exact duration may vary depending on the university or institution offering the course. BSc Environmental Science distance education programs may have a longer duration, up to 5 years, compared to the regular full-time course.
BSc Environmental Science: Course Types
BSc Environmental Science is offered to students in two modes that can be pursued full-time or via distance education.
- BSc Environmental Science Full-time: This course is designed in a systematic way and provides both theoretical and practical knowledge to the students. To build a strong foundation in BSc Environmental Science various aspects ofthe environment, and its ecosystem are taught in detail.
- BSc Environmental ScienceDistance Education: This option is available for students who cannot pursue this course on a full-time basis and require flexibility in choosing their study time. Throughout the program, students will engage in laboratory work, fieldwork, and research projects, allowing them to develop practical skills and gain hands-on experience in environmental science.
BSc Environmental Science: Distance Education
BSc Environmental Science distance education is a feasible option for students who are working professionals or are unable to pursue the course regularly. Given below are some of the key highlights of this course:
- BSc Environmental Science distance education eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 40-50% marks from a recognised board. The required subjects may vary, but typically include Physics, Chemistry, Biology and/or Mathematics.
- BSc Environmental Science distance education in India generally takes 3 years to complete, although some universities may offer longer duration programs.
- The study material for a distance education program in India is provided through printed books, e-books, and online resources.
- BSc Environmental Science distance education curriculum is the same as a full-time course and covers topics related to theenvironment, and its ecosystem.
- Students are required to complete assignments and appear for exams as part of the BSc Environmental distance education programme.
Some of the top Colleges/Universities offering BSc Environmental Science distance education are given below:
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
- Annamalai University
- Nalanda Open University
- Madurai Kamaraj University
- Periyar University
- Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU)
BSc Environmental Science: Fees
BSc Environmental Science in India normally costs anywhere between INR 50,000 – 2 Lakhs. Depending on the university, college, and region, different BSc BSc Environmental Science programs may have different costs. Given below is an overview of the fees for this course.
- Government Colleges/Universities: In comparison to private colleges, the cost of a BSc Environmental Science at government institutions is significantly lower. The annual fees for students in the general category might be anywhere from INR 10,000 – 30,000
- Private Colleges/Universities: The fee in a private institution is generally higher and can also vary depending on the college's standing and location. The costs typically range from INR 30,000 to 2 Lakhs or more.
Note: Students in the reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) may pay less in tuition or be eligible for fee exemptions or grants in both government and private institutions.
BSc Environmental Science: Colleges
Given below is a list of the top BSc Environmental Science colleges in India along with their fees:
Name of the College/University | Location | Average Annual Fees |
Pune | INR 11,135 | |
Bangalore | INR 42,000 | |
Bangalore | INR 30,000 | |
Kolkata | INR 24,760 | |
Bangalore | INR 42,000 | |
New Delhi | INR 22,500 | |
Chandigarh | INR 1,98,000 | |
Noida | INR 1,02,000 | |
Jalandhar | INR 1,59,000 | |
Calicut | INR 2,6390 | |
Shillong | INR 1,00,000 | |
Greater Noida | INR 60,000 | |
Gaya | INR 20,000 | |
Jaipur | INR 90,000 |
BSc Environmental Science: Admission Process
It is highly recommended that aspirants score well in their high school examinations or prepare well for the entrance exam. Given below is an overview of both the modes of admission:
BSc Environmental Science Admission: Merit Based
- An aspirant should score more than 50% marks in their high school examinations to be applicable for merit-based admission.
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- Make sure to check the eligibility criteria and have all the required documents (10th and 12th Certificates, Aadhar Card, Photographs etc.) in hand.
- Merit lists are usually updated on the official website of the colleges and need to be checked regularly by the aspirant.
- If selected, the aspirant can pay the required fees and the admission process will be complete.
- Finally, candidates must attend the counseling or orientation organised by the institution for further details, if selected from the merit list.
BSc Environmental Science Admission: Entrance Based
- Apply to the desired college through their official website or by physically visiting the institution and filling out the application form.
- The application form will require the candidate to register themselves with an email ID, password, and mobile number along with academic and course details.
- The candidate is required to upload the necessary documents online, such as Photograph, 10th, and 12th Certificates, Aadhar Card etc.)
- Once the form is complete, the candidate will be asked to pay a minimal amount of application fee.
- It is advised to check the website regularly for updates on the admit card, entrance exam and entrance exam syllabus.
- Admit cards will be issued to all the eligible students which will have important information such as the date of the examination, examination center and timings.
- The college/university will then publish lists according to their cutoff and seat availability.
- If selected, a candidate should pay the course fee as soon as possible and attend the orientation/counselling organised by the college for further information.
BSc Environmental Science: Eligibility
- BSc Environmental Science eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board.
- The required subjects may vary, but typically include Physics, Chemistry, Biology and/or Mathematics.
- The minimum age for this course is 17 years.
BSc Environmental Science: Entrance Exams
BSc Environmental Science entrance exam in India is often composed of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and normally lasts 2-3 hours, with the total amount of questions and marks varying depending on the institution. In some colleges there might be negative marking as well.
Given below are the details of some of the entrance exams conducted by various universities along with their details:
Name of the Exam | Registration Date | Exam Dates |
December 10 – April 12, 2023 | May 06, 2023 (Test 1) | |
November 28 - May 30, 2023 | November 28 - May 30, 2023 | |
April 2023 | May 21 – 31, 2023 | |
December 01, 2022 – May 21, 2023 | January 04, 2023 – May 31, 2023 |
BSc Environmental Science: Entrance Exams Syllabus
BSc Environmental Science entrance exam syllabus may vary slightly depending on the college or university. However, here are some common topics that are usually included in the syllabus:
Subjects | Topics |
Environmental Science | Environmental studies, environmental pollution and control, natural resources, climate change, ecology and ecosystem, environmental laws and policies, and sustainability. |
Physics | Basic concepts of physics, laws of motion, gravitation, thermodynamics, optics, electricity, magnetism, and modern physics. |
Chemistry | Atomic structure, chemical bonding, states of matter, chemical reactions, organic chemistry, environmental chemistry, and basic principles of analytical chemistry. |
Biology | Cell biology, genetics, plant physiology, animal physiology, biodiversity, ecology, evolution, and environmental biology. |
Mathematics | Algebra, trigonometry, calculus, coordinate geometry, statistics, and probability. |
General Knowledge | Current affairs, general awareness, and environmental issues. |
BSc Environmental Science: Syllabus
The course is divided into 6 Semesters which must be covered in 3 years. The syllabus of BSc Environmental Science will vary from college to college; however, a brief of the syllabus is given in the following tables:
BSc Environmental Science Syllabus: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
English Communication Skills | Environmental Chemistry |
Fundamentals of Environmental Science | Ecology and Environmental Studies |
Chemistry | Biodiversity and Conservation |
Physics | Geology and Soil Science |
Mathematics | Computer Fundamentals and Applications |
BSc Environmental Science Syllabus: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Environmental Microbiology | Environmental Toxicology |
Environmental Pollution and Control | Environmental Laws and Policies |
Environmental Geology and Remote Sensing | Environmental Economics and Sustainable Development |
Environmental Biotechnology | Environmental Monitoring and Management |
Environmental Impact Assessment and Auditing | Elective Course (e.g., Renewable Energy, Waste Management, or Environmental Education) |
BSc Environmental Science Syllabus: 3rd Year | |
Semester – 5 | Semester – 6 |
Natural Resource Management | Environmental Risk Assessment and Disaster Management |
Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability | Environmental Data Analysis and Modeling |
Environmental Ethics and Philosophy | Environmental Project and Field Work |
Research Methodology and Project Planning | Internship/Industrial Training |
Elective Course (e.g., Environmental Engineering, Environmental Health, or Urban Ecology) | Elective Course (e.g., Environmental Policy, Environmental Biotechnology, or Sustainable Agriculture) |
BSc Environmental Science: Subjects
BSc Environmental Science subjects may differ from one college to another. Nevertheless, given below is a list of potential subjects in BSc Environmental Science that students will study:
BSc Environmental Science Subjects: 1st Year | |
Semester – 1 | Semester – 2 |
Environmental Science Fundamentals | Environmental Biology |
Environmental Chemistry | Environmental Physics |
Ecology and Ecosystems | Biodiversity and Conservation |
Environmental Geology | Soil Science and Land Resources |
Mathematics for Environmental Science | Environmental Monitoring and Analysis Techniques |
BSc Environmental Science Subjects: 2nd Year | |
Semester – 3 | Semester – 4 |
Environmental Pollution and Control | Climate Change and Sustainable Development |
Environmental Microbiology | Environmental Laws and Policies |
Environmental Impact Assessment | Environmental Data Analysis and Interpretation |
Waste Management and Recycling | Environmental Biotechnology |
Remote Sensing and GIS Applications in Environmental Science | Natural Resource Management |
BSc Environmental Science Subjects: 3rd Year | |
Semester – 5 | Semester – 6 |
Environmental Risk Assessment and Management | Environmental Ethics and Philosophy |
Environmental Economics and Policy | Environmental Research Methodology |
Renewable Energy and Environmental Sustainability | Environmental Health and Toxicology |
Environmental Education and Communication | Environmental Conservation and Restoration |
Environmental Project Planning and Management | Environmental Project Work and Internship |
BSc Environmental Science: Recommended Books
Given below are the names of some recognised books along with their authors in the field of Environmental Science that a candidate must read to gain further knowledge in the course:
Name of the Book | Author's Name |
Environmental Science and Engineering | J. Glynn Henry and Gary W. Heinke |
Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure | R. Rajagopalan |
Environmental Science | Dr. A. Anil Kumar and Dr. R. Jagadeeshwar Rao |
Environmental Studies | Anindita Basak |
Environmental Science and Engineering | A.K. De |
Introduction to Environmental Science | R. S. Khoiyangbam |
Environmental Studies: From Crisis to Cure | Anubha Kaushik and C.P. Kaushik |
Textbook of Environmental Studies for Undergraduate Courses | Suresh K. Dhameja |
Environmental Science: Principles, Concepts and Applications | Dr. Y. Anjaneyulu and Dr. R. Sreedhara Reddy |
Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet | Daniel B. Botkin and Edward A. Keller |
Environmental Studies | Erach Bharucha |
Environmental Science: A Global Concern | William P. Cunningham and Mary Ann Cunningham |
Environmental Science | G. Tyler Miller and Scott Spoolman |
Course Comparison: BSc Environmental Science vs BTech Environmental Engineering
Features | BSc Environmental Science | BTech Environmental Engineering |
Course Name | Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science | Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Engineering |
Overview | BSc Environmental Science focuses on studying the environment, its components, and the impact of human activities on the natural world. | BTech Environmental Engineering applies engineering principles to address environmental challenges. |
Course Level | Undergraduate | Undergraduate |
Duration | 3 Years | 3 Years |
Course Types | Full-time/Distance Education | Full-time/Distance Education |
Course Syllabus | Environmental Science, Ecology, Pollution, Sustainability, Climate Change and Natural Resource Management. | Environmental Engineering, Fluid Mechanics, Waste Management, Air Pollution Control and Water Treatment. |
Average Course Fee | 20,000 – 3 LPA | INR 3 – 5 LPA |
Eligibility Criteria | BSc Environmental Science eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board. | BTech Environmental Engineering eligibility is 10+2 (Science stream) with minimum 50% marks from a recognised board along with an Entrance exam. |
Admission Process | Merit and Entrance based | Entrance based |
Top Colleges | Fergusson College, Mount Carmel College, St. Joseph's College, St. Xavier's College, and Ramanujan College. | IIT Kharagpur, Amity University, Delhi Technological University, IIT Kanpur and CMJ University. |
Average Salary | INR 3 – 8 LPA | INR 5 – 8 LPA |
Job Profiles | Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Manager, Environmental Educator, and Environmental Researcher | Environmental Engineer, Environmental Consultant, Project Manager, Sustainability Engineer. |
Scope | MSc Environmental Science, Environmental Science Management and MSc Conservation Biology. | MTech Environmental Engineering and PhD Environmental Engineering. |
BSc Environmental Science: Jobs
There are various BSc Environmental Science jobs in India. Some of the popular job profiles along with their description are given below:
Job Profile | Job Description |
Environmental Consultant | Environmental Consultants assess and manage environmental effect, create sustainability strategies, and assure adherence to environmental legislation, by working with corporations, government agencies, and organisations. |
Environmental Officer/Manager | Environmental Officers or Managers work in industries, government agencies, or NGOs to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, develop environmental policies, and implement environmental management systems. |
Environmental Analyst
| Environmental Analysts collect and analyze data on environmental conditions, assess environmental risks, and provide recommendations for environmental management and conservation. |
Waste Management Specialist
| Waste Management Specialists are responsible for designing and implementing waste management plans, to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable waste management practices. |
Environmental Educator
| Environmental Educators work in schools, colleges, NGOs, or environmental organizations to educate the public about environmental issues. |
Environmental Health and Safety Officer
| Environmental Health and Safety officers work in industries to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, assess and mitigate environmental risks, and promote workplace safety and environmental sustainability. |
Environmental Scientist/Researcher
| Environmental Scientists conduct research, collect samples, analyze data, and study various aspects of the environment such as air quality, water resources, biodiversity, and climate change. |
BSc Environmental Science: Salary
BSc Environmental Science salary ranges from INR 3 – 8 LPA. Given below are various job opportunities available in the field along with their average salary:
Job Profile | Average Salary |
Environmental Consultant | INR 2 – 18 LPA |
Environmental Officer/Manager | INR 4.8 – 20 LPA |
Environmental Analyst | INR 1.1 – 11 LPA |
Waste Management Specialist | INR 1.6 – 19.9 LPA |
Environmental Educator | INR 4.9 – 9 LPA |
Environmental Health and Safety Officer | INR 1.1 – 10.2 LPA |
Environmental Scientist/Researcher | INR 1.6 – 7.6 LPA |
BSc Environmental Science: Top Recruiters
After completing BSc Environmental Science, graduates can apply to both private as well as public sector companies for job opportunities. Given below is a list of the top recruiters of this course:
Field of Employment | Top Recruiters |
Government Agencies | Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) State Pollution Control Boards Forest Departments Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Authorities |
Environmental Consulting Firms
| Golder Associates Tetra Tech AECOM Ramboll |
Corporate and Industries
| Energy and Power Companies Manufacturing and Chemical Industries Construction and Infrastructure Companies Waste Management Companies Environmental Technology Companies |
Research and Academic Institutions
| Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) National Institute of Environmental Studies (NIES) Wildlife Institute of India (WII) Universities and colleges offering environmental science programs. |
Education and Research Institutions | Universities and colleges with anthropology departments Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) Centre for Development Studies (CDS) |
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
| World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Greenpeace India The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) Conservation Foundation of India (CFI) |
BSc Environmental Science: Scope
BSc Environmental Science scope includes various further study options for graduates in India. Some of the popular ones are:
- Master's in Environmental Science (MSc Environmental Science): A master's degree helps when an individual wants to specialise in specific areas of environmental science, such as environmental management, conservation biology, climate change, or sustainable development.
- Master of Environmental Management (MEM): This professional degree prepares one for leadership roles in organiations, government agencies, and consulting firms that contribute to environmental planning, policy development, and sustainability initiatives.
- Master of Environmental Studies (MES): This interdisciplinary degree program covers various aspects of environmental studies, including social, economic, and political dimensions of environmental issues.
- Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Conservation Biology: This specialised program focuses on wildlife conservation organisations, national parks, and research institutions.
- Master of Sustainable Development: This program focuses on the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. It prepares you for careers in sustainable development planning, environmental policy, and project management in both public and private sectors.