B.S. in Environmental Science and Geography

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC).

International Student Scholarships: UMBC offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students to support their educational expenses. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or a combination of both. They are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and other criteria. 

UMBC Merit Scholarships: UMBC offers merit-based scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement. The selection process for these scholarships is competitive, and students are typically considered based on their application materials, including academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

Departmental Scholarships: Various departments and academic programs at UMBC may offer scholarships specifically for international students within their respective fields. These scholarships may be discipline-specific and target students who demonstrate exceptional abilities and potential in a particular area of study. International students are advised to inquire with their intended department or program about any available scholarships or funding opportunities.

External Scholarships: International students studying at UMBC may also be eligible for external scholarships provided by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. These scholarships can be based on various criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, or specific fields of study. Students are encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities in their home countries or through international scholarship databases.

Fulbright Scholarships: UMBC participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students from over 160 countries. The Fulbright scholarships support graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships at UMBC. Eligibility criteria and application processes for Fulbright scholarships may vary depending on the student's home country. Interested international students can contact the Fulbright Commission or Embassy in their home country for more information.

Global Ambassador Scholarships: UMBC's Global Ambassador Scholarships are designed for international students who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding on campus. These scholarships provide financial support and an opportunity for international students to engage in outreach activities, cultural programs, and campus initiatives that promote global perspectives and intercultural exchange.

International Education Foundation (IEF) Scholarships: The International Education Foundation offers scholarships to international students studying at UMBC. These scholarships are aimed at supporting students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. The IEF scholarships are awarded based on a competitive application process, and students are required to submit an essay and letters of recommendation.

It is important for international students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates of UMBC's B.S. in Environmental Science and Geography program possess interdisciplinary skills in environmental science, geography, and geospatial analysis, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in environmental sustainability, resource management, urban planning, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Environmental Scientist: Many graduates pursue careers as environmental scientists, conducting research, analyzing data, and developing solutions to environmental issues such as pollution, climate change, biodiversity loss, and natural resource management. Environmental scientists work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, non-profit organizations, and research institutions. They conduct field investigations, monitor environmental indicators, and collaborate with stakeholders to implement conservation measures and sustainable practices.

GIS Specialist/Analyst: Graduates may specialize as GIS specialists or analysts, utilizing geospatial technologies to collect, analyze, and visualize geographic data for environmental research, urban planning, natural resource management, and emergency response. GIS specialists work in government agencies, private companies, utility providers, and environmental organizations. They create maps, spatial models, and interactive applications to support decision-making, spatial analysis, and environmental planning initiatives.

Urban Planner/Environmental Planner: Some graduates pursue careers as urban planners or environmental planners, designing land-use plans, zoning regulations, and sustainability initiatives to promote environmentally-friendly development practices. Urban planners work for local governments, regional planning agencies, architectural firms, and environmental consulting companies. They assess community needs, conduct environmental impact assessments, and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve sustainable development goals and enhance quality of life in urban areas.

Sustainability Specialist/Coordinator: Graduates may work as sustainability specialists or coordinators, implementing sustainability programs, conducting environmental audits, and promoting eco-friendly practices in corporate settings, educational institutions, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Sustainability specialists develop environmental policies, assess environmental performance metrics, and educate stakeholders on sustainable practices to reduce carbon footprint, conserve resources, and achieve sustainability goals.

Environmental Consultant: Some graduates specialize as environmental consultants, providing expertise on regulatory compliance, environmental assessments, and remediation projects for clients in industries such as construction, energy, manufacturing, and transportation. Environmental consultants conduct site inspections, assess environmental risks, and prepare reports to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and mitigate environmental impacts of development projects.

Conservation Scientist/Forester: Graduates may pursue careers as conservation scientists or foresters, managing natural resources, conducting forest inventories, and implementing conservation programs to protect wildlife habitats, watersheds, and ecosystems. Conservation scientists work for government agencies, conservation organizations, and forest management companies. They develop forest management plans, monitor ecosystem health, and collaborate with stakeholders to promote sustainable forestry practices and biodiversity conservation.

Further Education and Research: Graduates interested in advancing their careers may pursue further education through master's or doctoral programs in environmental science, geography, urban planning, GIS, or related fields. Advanced degrees offer opportunities for roles in academia, research institutions, policy analysis, and environmental advocacy. Graduates may conduct research on climate change impacts, environmental policy analysis, GIS applications in environmental management, or sustainable urban development, contributing to scientific publications and influencing environmental policy.