The Environmental Studies program offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the relationship between humans and the environment. It equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle pressing environmental challenges, such as air, water and soil quality, resource management, conservation and restoration.

With a focus on advanced interdisciplinary training, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers in environmental fields. Students are empowered to become leaders in developing sustainable solutions and driving positive change in the protection and management of natural resources.

Quick Facts

Tuition
On-campus: $7,120/yr*
Online: $7,685/yr*
Duration
2 years
Credit Hours
40
STEM Designated
Yes

Calendar

Don't miss an important date or deadline

Designed for working professionals, UIS programs feature multiple start dates per year, so you can begin at the time that best fits your schedule and complete your degree quickly. View the Academic Calendar

Now Enrolling

Apply by Date:
December 28, 2026

Start Date:
January 11, 2027

Apply Today!

Tuition & Aid

UIS is the most affordable option to earning your University of Illinois degree. Earn a world-class education for less than you’d expect.

Tuition Estimates

On-campus $7,120/yr*
Online $7,685/yr*

Based on 40 credit hours over 2 years.

*These numbers represent an estimate of the in-state tuition cost for this program and do not include fees. To get an estimate of the full cost of attendance check out the cost of attendance page and/or use the tuition calculator.

Admissions

Applying to UIS is simple

We've streamlined our admission process to save you time and effort. Just follow the steps below.

 

Review admission requirements

No specific admission requirements are listed at this time. Please contact the Office of Admission for more information.

International students, will you need an F-1 student visa to study on campus at UIS? Please review the International Applicants site for additional information.

Complete your application

An email address is required to create an account. To submit a paper application, visit the Resources & Forms page. Find more information about what type of student you are on the Student Types page. Applying for an online program is the same procedure as applying for an on-campus program.

Send your official transcripts

Email your official or certified academic records/transcripts to incomingtranscripts@uis.edu or through any of the major transcript platforms. Photocopies will not be accepted.

Submit required statements/writing sample

If you are a first-year student, a statement of 250-650 words is required for admission. We want to hear about your professional aspirations, intellectual interests, and personal experiences relevant to your choice of a specific academic program. You can upload the required documents on your application status page.

Pay your application fee

You can submit your non-refundable application fee online, after completing the online application. Alternately, it can also be mailed to the university, payable to University of Illinois Springfield.

Domestic students: Undergraduate - $50, Graduate - $60;

International students: Undergraduate - $60, Graduate - $75.

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Courses & Catalog Information

Career Outlook & Potential Earnings

Graduates of this program may find opportunities in the following careers. Data sourced from O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Compliance Officers

Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and perform other compliance and enforcement inspectio

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening

Environmental Compliance Inspectors

Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, High school diploma or equivalent

Government Property Inspectors and Investigators

Investigate or inspect government property to ensure compliance with contract agreements and government regulations.

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Judgment and Decision Making
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, Post-secondary certificate

Coroners

Direct activities such as autopsies, pathological and toxicological analyses, and inquests relating to the investigation of deaths occurring within a legal jurisdiction to determine cause of death or

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Critical Thinking
  • Speaking
  • Reading Comprehension
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate

Regulatory Affairs Specialists

Coordinate and document internal regulatory processes, such as internal audits, inspections, license renewals, or registrations. May compile and prepare materials for submission to regulatory agencies

Median Annual Wage $80,730
Wage Range $48,220 – $133,720
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Writing
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, Post-baccalaureate certificate

Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health

Conduct research or perform investigation for the purpose of identifying, abating, or eliminating sources of pollutants or hazards that affect either the environment or public health. Using knowledge

Median Annual Wage $82,220
Wage Range $52,520 – $140,010
Projected Growth Average
Top Skills:
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Reading Comprehension
Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree
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