Undergraduate Academics
Find Your Path in Earth, Energy, and the Environment
Gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to protect ecosystems, manage natural resources, and create sustainable solutions for the future.
Earth, Energy, and the Environment
If you’re fascinated by the natural world and want to make a difference, this is where you start. You’ll explore how science, technology, and policy come together to solve environmental challenges—gaining the knowledge and skills to create a better future.
At Penn State, learning happens far beyond the classroom. You’ll get hands-on experience through fieldwork, research labs, and conservation initiatives, working alongside experts who share your passion. From restoring ecosystems to analyzing climate data, you’ll take what you learn and apply it in real-world settings. No matter where your interests lead, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact.
Practical fieldwork: Many programs study ecosystems, wildlife, and natural resources in actual settings.
Lab and research experience: Analyze climate data, test soil and water quality, or explore renewable energy solutions.
Sustainability and conservation skills: Learn how to protect biodiversity, manage forests, and develop policies for environmental protection.
Cutting-edge technology: Use GIS mapping, remote sensing, and environmental monitoring tools to study the world around you.
Problem-solving for global challenges: Tackle issues like climate change and pollution through science and policy.
Collaboration with experts: Work alongside researchers, policymakers, and industry professionals on real environmental projects.
Pathways to high-impact careers: Prepare for roles in conservation, environmental science, engineering, policy, and sustainable business.
Careers in Environmental Science
Geographer
Study land, climate, and human activity using geospatial analysis. Geographers use maps and data to solve problems, plan communities, and understand how the world is changing.
$90,880 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Geoscientist
Study the Earth’s materials, processes, and history to solve problems like natural resource management or environmental issues. Licensing is commonly required for this career.
$92,580 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Hydrologist
Study water sources, distribution, and quality to help manage water resources and protect the environment. Hydrologists use data to solve water-related problems.
$78,980 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Landscape Architect
Design outdoor spaces like parks and gardens, blending nature and human needs. Landscape architects create plans for attractive, functional environments. Licensure is required.
$79,320 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Meteorologist
Study weather and climate patterns to make forecasts. Atmospheric scientists analyze data to predict conditions, inform planning, and help keep people safe.
$92,860 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Mining or Geological Engineer
Design and develop mines to extract minerals safely and efficiently. Licensure is common but not required for entry-level jobs.
$100,640 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Surveyor
Measure land to create accurate maps and plans for construction and development. Surveyors use tools to determine property boundaries. Licensure is required.
$68,540 national median pay
Bureau of Labor Statistics
Discover Your Path
Not sure where to start? The Find Your Fit quiz helps you explore Penn State’s majors, campuses, athletics, and student groups. Get personalized recommendations to explore options that fit your goals.
More Than Big Ideas
Entrepreneurship
Explore, experiment, and build.
Whether you’re launching a startup or just curious, Penn State’s ecosystem connects you to mentors, support, and potential funding.
Research and Innovation
Tackle big challenges—from fighting disease to protecting the environment. With top-ranked programs and hands-on research, you can contribute to discoveries that matter.
Social Good
Gain the tools to promote fairness, build community, and create meaningful change—on campus and in communities around the world.
Learn More About Our Programs and Resources
In this pathway, you’ll develop valuable skills that will prepare you to tackle the toughest environmental challenges. These skills will not only help you in your studies but also make you stand out to employers and help you succeed in your career. Through hands-on fieldwork, advanced technology, or problem-solving strategies, you’ll gain the practical experience and knowledge needed to make a real-world impact.
Environmental monitoring and GIS: Use cutting-edge tools to track climate change, pollution, and resource usage while mastering GIS to map and analyze environmental changes.
Scientific research: Collect data, conduct experiments, and use scientific methods to solve environmental problems.
Data analysis: Interpret environmental data and apply it to real-world situations, from pollution control to conservation efforts.
Fieldwork experience: Gain hands-on experience in ecosystems, conservation projects, and wildlife studies.
Critical thinking and problem-solving: Analyze complex environmental issues and develop creative solutions.
Communication: Learn how to effectively present environmental findings.
Sustainability strategies: Learn how to develop and implement strategies that protect the environment while supporting economic growth.
Policy and regulatory knowledge: Understand environmental laws and policies that impact resource management and conservation efforts.
Majors in the earth, energy, and the environment pathway are designed to help you develop strong leadership skills that will empower you to make a lasting impact. Through hands-on projects, collaborative work, and real-world challenges, you’ll learn how to guide teams, solve complex problems, and lead efforts to protect the environment. You’ll have the opportunity to take charge of initiatives, communicate your ideas, and inspire others to take action for a sustainable future.
Throughout your studies, you’ll build the confidence and experience needed to step into leadership roles, whether in environmental organizations, government agencies, or businesses focused on sustainability. Your leadership journey will be shaped by mentorship from experienced professionals, teamwork with passionate peers, and opportunities to apply your knowledge to real-world situations that make a difference.
At Penn State, your education goes beyond the classroom and into the world. Whether you're monitoring water quality in Pennsylvania’s streams or working on renewable energy solutions in Iceland, you'll gain real-world experience that prepares you to make an impact.
Picture yourself studying forest ecosystems in a state forest, tagging and releasing monarch butterflies for migration research, or contributing to an international project tracking Pennsylvania’s smallest owl species. You might find yourself testing soil samples in local wetlands, evaluating campus building efficiency, or even traveling to Peru to develop water distribution solutions.
Wherever you go, you'll build practical skills that set you apart.
At Penn State, sustainability isn’t just a concept—it’s a commitment to shaping a better future. From pioneering renewable energy solutions to protecting natural resources, our students and faculty work together to tackle some of the world’s biggest environmental challenges.
With nearly 400 courses focused on sustainability and faculty experts across every campus, you'll gain the knowledge and hands-on experience to become a leader in this critical field. Our impact is real—25% of our electricity comes from one of Pennsylvania’s largest solar projects, and we’re ranked among the top universities worldwide for sustainability efforts.
Join a university that puts sustainability at the forefront, integrating science, policy, and innovation to create lasting change.
Choosing an accredited program ensures you’re gaining the knowledge and skills that meet industry standards—giving you a competitive edge in careers that protect and manage the natural world. At Penn State, you'll learn from expert faculty, gain hands-on experience, and graduate with a degree that employers recognize and respect.
Undergraduate engineering programs: Accredited by ABET, ensuring technical expertise, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills for cutting-edge careers.
Forest Ecosystem Management: Accredited by the Society of American Foresters, with three accredited options: Community and Urban Forest Management, Forest Biology, and Forest Management.
Forest Technology, A.S.: Accredited by the Society of American Foresters.
Wildlife Technology, A.S.: Accredited by the North American Wildlife Technology Association (NAWTA).
Penn State’s undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET, the global standard for engineering education. This accreditation ensures our programs provide the technical expertise, hands-on experience, and problem-solving skills needed for success in cutting-edge engineering fields.
Employers recognize ABET-accredited degrees as a mark of quality and industry readiness, giving you a competitive edge in the job market and streamlining the path to professional licensure and certifications, opening doors to advanced career opportunities.
At Penn State, undergraduates can dive into research projects that explore new ideas and trends. This experience will set you apart and give you a deeper understanding of your field.
A degree in earth, energy, and the environment opens the door to even more opportunities, whether you’re planning to start your career or pursue advanced studies.
You’ll have access to top graduate programs where you can deepen your expertise in areas like environmental policy, sustainability, and resource management. Continue building on your undergraduate foundation to specialize in fields that will help you lead the way in solving global environmental challenges.
Learn more about graduate programs in environmental science and natural resources.
Thinking about law school? Penn State’s pre-law advising helps students in any major navigate the path to a legal career.
Whether you’re exploring if law school is right for you or preparing applications, dedicated advisors provide expert guidance through info sessions, workshops, and one-on-one appointments. Get support in choosing the right courses, finding internships, and selecting the best law school for your goals.
Penn State offers comprehensive career services to help students confidently navigate their career. Our dedicated advisers provide personalized career counseling, resume workshops, interview prep, mock interviews, and job placement assistance.
With over 50,000 career preparedness programs annually and career fairs featuring top employers, we ensure you're well-equipped to succeed. There's a reason recruiters turn to Penn State graduates again and again.
You’ll also have access to networking opportunities with alumni, recruiters, and industry professionals to jumpstart your career.
At Penn State, we provide unmatched networking opportunities through our world’s largest dues-paying alumni network, connecting students to a lifelong community of professionals.
With access to alumni and industry leaders, you’ll gain valuable insights, career advice, and potential job opportunities. Our alumni network and partnerships with top employers ensure that you're building relationships that will support your career for years to come.
Participate in internships and co-op programs to gain valuable real-world experience by connecting you with leading companies across industries.
These opportunities allow you to apply classroom learning to professional settings, build industry-specific skills, and network with potential employers.
Internships are short-term, hands-on positions, while co-ops involve alternating work and study periods for a more in-depth experience. Both are designed to give you a competitive edge, preparing you for a successful career after graduation.
Penn State offers a range of opportunities for students eager to launch their own businesses or drive innovation within existing industries. Through Invent Penn State, you'll have access to programs that support entrepreneurial education both in and outside the classroom.
Our signature programs provide students with the knowledge, resources, and mentorship needed to bring bold ideas to life. Whether you want to start your own venture or lead innovation within a company, Penn State provides the support to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
Broaden your perspective with over 300 study abroad programs in more than 50 countries, available year-round for all majors.
Whether through embedded programs that let you take classes while traveling during breaks or global service opportunities like alternative spring break, these experiences will deepen your understanding of international business and culture. Gain the global insights and connections that today’s leaders need to succeed.
We are dedicated to shaping the future by fostering a community where all students are encouraged to share their unique perspectives. We believe that progress happens when we embrace and amplify ideas, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
Our commitment goes beyond the classroom, weaving together integrity, leadership, and social responsibility. With a focus on creating positive change, Penn State prepares students to lead with purpose and make a lasting impact. From cutting-edge initiatives to global learning opportunities, we empower students to drive social good.
Penn State’s Integrated Undergraduate-Graduate (IUG) degree programs allow students to pursue both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree as a continuous course of study. This streamlined path accelerates the completion of the master's degree and offers early exposure to graduate-level coursework. IUG students also benefit from networking opportunities with graduate students and faculty who share similar academic and career interests.
Take your education further with honors programs, where high-achieving students gain access to small, discussion-based classes, faculty mentorship, and unique academic experiences.
With honors opportunities available across our campuses and Schreyer Honors College, you’ll engage in research, leadership development, and hands-on learning that sets you apart. Personalized advising, study abroad options, and career resources help you make the most of your college journey.
We offer more than sixty articulation agreements with colleges and universities around the world to help transfer students continue their education at Penn State. With hundreds of academic majors and campuses across Pennsylvania, you'll have plenty of options to find the right path for your future.