Environmental Sciences Degrees are usually undertaken by students who like the natural, physical, and biological sciences.
By studying this specialisation, young people get new knowledge about the processes and phenomenons that affect the environment and find solutions to problems that concern nature.
Students’ interest has increased a lot in recent years due to climate change, pollution and other adverse effects on the environment. Environmental Sciences graduates bring multiple benefits to the world they live in, analysing systems and finding effective solutions to develop sustainability and green processes.
The main advantage of the Environmental Sciences Degree is that students are becoming more aware of how we need to protect the environment, give up chemicals and harmful products that pollute the planet in favour of the ones that are biodegradable or environmentally friendly. By becoming aware of the dangers we are facing, students find innovative ideas for sustainability and sustainable development.
This specialisation encourages young people to develop skills such as critical and creative thinking, teamwork, adaptation. Complex issues are debated through this degree, so students need to be innovative and think outside of the box to use resources wisely, protect and, above all, preserve natural wealth.
Besides the advantages listed, the rate of employment is high, because the jobs are being more and more diversified. It has been noted that there is a greater need for environmental consultation, biologists exploring natural environments, and sustainability consultants. This degree can also be useful for other jobs, such as Landscape Architect.
The structure of the degree includes several subjects, depending on the university a student chooses. Some universities prefer to focus on the theoretical policies and notions discussed in the courses, while others choose to rely on systematic research and practical experience gained in the environment. In principle, these studies require a background in the following sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Ecology, Physics.
Bachelor Degrees in Environmental Sciences last between 2 and 3 years. Courses are based on the knowledge of the Sciences of Nature and Social Sciences. Most Bachelor programmes are based on college courses, but also on practical projects. A Master’s programme lasts for about 2-3 years and is recommended for those who want to continue with in-depth research into the elements of the environment. Doctoral courses are designed in such a way that students will be guided to conduct independent research, having a much different structure than during their Bachelor. This programme lasts between 3 and 6 years.
It is important to know that students can choose to pursue this degree online. In this way, students can take advantage of the flexibility and save money, as costs are much lower compared to those spent at universities. For example, The Open University offers online courses, the level of information being authentic and useful for the students.
Master’s program of Advanced Energy Solutions – Energy Conversion Processes depends heavily depends on subjects related to chemistry. Therefore, if you are willing to study this program you must have solid foundation in chemistry and thermodynamics. The program has wide range of subjects where students have the freedom to choose their advanced subjects. However, since there’s no defined path for this major I would recommend that it’s essential to know what are your goals or learning outcomes after finishing this program. Thus, it can aid in shaping your career. The program focuses more on subjects related to process engineering so if you are willing to work as a process engineer then this might be the right program for you. Nevertheless, the teaching material itself is rich in content and for each subject there’s are tutorial classes to reinforce the learning experience.
Regarding career prospects, this program might be a bit ambiguous especially for international students. If you do not have a clear idea of what career you want to purse then it might be difficult to find a job in the Finnish market as this program does not entitle graduates to a certain specialization. Likewise. it’s possible that you continue your PhD after your studies since this program covers a wide range of research topics.
Overall, this program is very suitable for students with good background in chemistry and thermodynamics related subjects. Furthermore, projects are linked to real case studies which are very helpful for the students to gain knowledge about the industry. Also, there are a lot of seminars held by leading companies that explain how theories can be implemented and find practical applications. In addition, the teaching staff is very supportive as well as the student environment.
View moreYou are reading this review from a person who is a master’s graduate from Aalto University and is currently in his second year of PhD at Aalto. I would not think twice before saying that pursuing my educational career at Aalto University proved to be a turning point for my career. This decision took me in the direction that I could have imagined. Best educational facilities, cooperative teaching and administrative staff, advanced technological laboratories and great work-life balance are some of the promising points that differentiate my institution from others. Studying in Aalto does not force you to be working all the time, instead, you find plenty of time for your personal life and family. Considering the future career perspectives, Aalto University makes sure to introduce companies to their students in the form of industrial projects, thesis and other research works. I would highly recommend getting a life-changing educational experience at Aalto University.
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