Atlanta has several environmental schools: Emory University offers a graduate degree in environmental studies, as well as an MPH in global environmental health. Top-ranked Georgia Tech is found in Atlanta with master and Ph.D. programs in environmental engineering and degrees in biology, chemistry, earth and atmospheric sciences. Georgia State University, Oglethorpe University, and Spelman College have science departments and environmental majors as well.
Employment projections for the Atlanta area through this decade are quite good. Specifically, environmental engineers can expect a 138% increase in job openings (2000-2010); epidemiologist positions are increasing by 50%; farming, fishing, and forestry occupations are increasing by 14%; and environmental scientists and specialist positions are increasing by 91%. Well-known environmental companies and organizations with offices in Atlanta include CH2M Hill, Southface Energy Institute, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Nature Conservancy
Environmental Schools, Programs & Courses
in Atlanta
Subjects listed are highlights of programs
and/or courses offered.
Why Atlanta is a Great Place to Study Environmental
Atlanta’s government, agencies, and citizens work together to find practical solutions to environmental issues; efforts based in the business community are especially popular. Coalitions work with businesses to help attain better air and water quality and to execute intelligent growth policies. Over the next 25 years, the Atlanta area is expected to add 1.7 million jobs and 2.3 million people. The metro area is planning now for the future, knowing it is not a matter of if the region will grow, but whether groups can work together to accommodate the growth that is occurring. As a national first, the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District was formed by the state General Assembly in 2001 to provide water resource planning and oversight to the area’s 4 million people. The region is also part of the Southeastern Economic Alliance, a coalition of six states’ chambers of commerce fighting for a high-speed rail system to be funded. The rail would connect cities and would reduce pollution, congestion, and sprawl. By passing and enforcing tough standards and innovative ideas now, the Atlanta metro region will be well-prepared for today and tomorrow.
Other Resources for Environmental Education and Careers in Atlanta