Environmental science teachers at the postsecondary level design courses, deliver lectures, and guide students through lab work and field research. You need a doctoral degree and deep knowledge of biology, chemistry, and environmental systems. It is intellectually demanding and requires strong communication skills.
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You teach environmental science to college and university students through lectures, discussions, and hands-on laboratory and field work. You develop course materials, stay current with environmental research and scientific advances, and interpret complex information for your students. You work closely with colleagues and supervise students' independent research projects. Much of your work involves reading scientific literature, writing course content, and using computers for data analysis and online instruction. You also communicate regularly with department supervisors and peers about curriculum and student progress.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $94,980 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 3 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 700 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
You will need a doctoral degree in environmental science or a related field like biology or chemistry. This typically follows a bachelor's degree and takes several years of graduate study, including research and a dissertation. During your doctoral program, you will develop expertise in environmental systems, research methods, and scientific communication. Many programs include teaching assistantships that let you gain classroom experience. After completing your degree, you will apply for faculty positions at colleges and universities.
The path to this career runs through graduate school, where you will specialize in environmental science while building teaching experience. If you are exploring doctoral programs and want to map out the steps ahead, Pathly can map the environmental science teacher, postsecondary path that fits you with your school counselor to create a plan that fits your timeline and goals.
You do not need a license to work as an environmental science teacher, postsecondary, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You are drawn to investigating how natural systems work and solving environmental problems. You enjoy learning deeply, thinking critically about complex issues, and sharing knowledge with others.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).