Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | B.Sc Environmental Science |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years, then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Environmental Sciences |
| Career field / body | Environmental management and consultancy (e.g. HSE, EIA, NESREA sector) |
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Physics, Mathematics, and one of Chemistry, Geography, Fine Art, Biology or Economics |
| Competitiveness | Moderately competitive |
On this page
- What Environmental Science is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Environmental Science & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Salary outlook in Nigeria
- Where it’s offered
- Is it a good course?
- Skills you’ll gain
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Environmental Science is about
Environmental Science is the study of the environment and how to protect it — understanding natural systems, human impacts like pollution and climate change, and how to manage resources sustainably.
A brief history of the discipline
As environmental problems grew, environmental science emerged as an interdisciplinary field vital to sustainable development. It is increasingly important to Nigeria’s oil, industry and climate challenges.
What you will study
You study ecology and environmental chemistry, pollution and waste management, environmental impact assessment (EIA), climate and resource management, and GIS — with fieldwork and a project.
Why study Environmental Science & who it suits
This course suits creative, practical and technically-minded students interested in the built environment, land and design. A concern for the environment and an interest in applied science are ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in environmental management and consultancy, oil-and-gas health, safety and environment (HSE), environmental impact assessment, conservation, regulation (such as NESREA), research and NGOs.
Salary outlook in Nigeria
Environmental Science pays well in oil & gas HSE and consultancy, with steady demand in regulation and research.
| Career stage | Typical monthly pay (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry (graduate) | ₦120,000 – ₦300,000 |
| Mid-level | ₦300,000 – ₦700,000 |
| Senior / HSE, consultancy, agency | ₦800,000 – ₦1,800,000+ |
Figures are rough approximations (monthly gross) as of 2026, drawn from Nigerian salary aggregators. Actual pay varies widely by sector (oil & gas, fintech and multinationals pay far above the public service), employer, location (Lagos and Abuja pay more) and experience — treat these as a guide, not a guarantee.
Where it’s offered: notable universities
Environmental Science is offered at many Nigerian universities, including the University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, the Federal University of Technology Akure, University of Nigeria and the University of Benin, among others.
This is not a ranked or exhaustive list — always confirm the current institutions and their requirements in the official JAMB brochure, or use our subject combination checker and the Environmental Science admission guide.
Is Environmental Science a good course to study in Nigeria?
Environmental Science is the study and protection of the environment, with growing demand in oil & gas HSE, environmental impact assessment, consultancy and regulation.
Why it’s a strong choice:
- Growing demand — HSE, EIA and sustainability.
- Oil & gas HSE roles pay well.
- Consultancy, agency and NGO roles.
- Highly relevant to climate and sustainability.
Challenges to weigh:
- Entry pay is modest.
- Some roles need postgraduate study.
- Competitive.
- Field and laboratory work.
It suits students who care about the environment and enjoy applied science.
Skills you’ll gain
Beyond subject knowledge, Environmental Science builds transferable skills valued across many careers:
- Environmental analysis and monitoring
- Environmental impact assessment (EIA)
- GIS
- Data analysis
- Research
- Problem-solving
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Sc Environmental Science (4 years) → NYSC → roles in environmental management, HSE, EIA, regulation and research, with postgraduate study for specialist paths.
How to get in: Environmental Science UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Environmental Science is Use of English, Physics, Mathematics, and one of Chemistry, Geography, Fine Art, Biology or Economics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language and Mathematics. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
- Use of English — practise CBT
- Physics — practise CBT
- Mathematics — practise CBT
- Chemistry — practise CBT
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Environmental Science, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Environmental Science in Nigeria?
It typically takes 4 years, followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Environmental Science?
Use of English, Physics, Mathematics, and one of Chemistry, Geography, Fine Art, Biology or Economics
What can I do with an Environmental Science degree?
Work in environmental management and consultancy, oil-and-gas HSE, environmental impact assessment, conservation, regulation and research.
Is Environmental Science in demand?
Yes — growing attention to pollution, climate and sustainability, plus oil-and-gas HSE needs, drives demand for environmental scientists.
Is Environmental Science a good course to study in Nigeria?
Yes — growing attention to pollution, climate and sustainability, plus oil & gas HSE needs, drives demand for environmental scientists.
What jobs can I get?
Environmental management and consultancy, oil & gas HSE, environmental impact assessment, conservation, regulation (such as NESREA) and research.
Is Environmental Science in demand?
Yes — sustainability, climate and HSE requirements are increasing demand across industry and government.
Does it pay well?
Oil & gas HSE and consultancy roles pay well; public and entry roles are more modest, and some senior roles reward an MSc.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties and the relevant professional/registration bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.