8 Best Places to Study Abroad for Environmental Science

As an environmental science major, you’re learning a lot about ecology, biology, chemistry, zoology, and many other things. Plus, your field touches on so many global issues. This is one of the reasons why your major is one of the best majors for studying abroad.

There’s so much you can study around the world as an environmental science student.

By studying abroad, you will take that first step to become an international environmental scientist. But where should you go? If you’re wondering about the best places to study abroad for environmental science, you’ll be glad to know that you have a lot of options.

Different countries mean different opportunities, and the country you choose will greatly affect your experience. But with seven continents, four oceans, and thousands of cities and forests, you can make sure that you’ll find somewhere that clicks with your interests and academic goals.

Why study environmental science abroad?

Not sure if studying abroad is right for you? There are tons of good reasons to study environmental science abroad:

1. Environmental science is a global issue

From climate change to air pollution, you’ll find a wide range of global issues that concern all the countries in the world. This means that the need for environmental scientists is growing day by day. By studying abroad, you will have the chance to observe the similarities and differences in another country, broadening your horizons and helping you understand your field better.

2. Environmental policies and problems change from country to country.

Your experience will highly depend on the country you choose. There are so many career opportunities for environmental scientists—you can work in an office, in the laboratory, or in nature.

Want to get up close and personal with our oceans? There’s a study abroad program for that.

If you’re interested in the research side of environmental science, you might want to choose a country with good research organizations. On the other hand, if you want to work on saving the oceans, the best country to study environmental science would be somewhere near the ocean.

3. Studying abroad gives you new perspectives

You will gain invaluable knowledge by studying abroad. Thanks to the new experiences you will have, you will be able to come up with more creative solutions to your problems. Your study abroad experience will definitely come in handy when you get a job as an environmental scientist, whether you end up working at home or abroad.

4. You will grow professionally and personally.

There’s no doubt that you’ll learn more about your major and gain hands-on experience when you study environmental science beyond your home institution. But studying abroad is so much more than that—you get to experience a new culture, make new friends, and of course, boost your resume.

Where to study abroad for environmental science

Every country needs environmental scientists like you. The environmental issues in a small island country won’t be the same as the problems in a large metropolitan, so consider your interests and career goals to decide where to study abroad for environmental science.

Choosing where to go abroad won’t be easy as there are so many interesting places, but we’re here to help! Here are 8 of the best places to study abroad for environmental science:

1. Denmark

• Why: The most environmentally-friendly country in the world had to be on this list. Denmark scores 82.5 points on the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and performs very well in biodiversity and air quality in particular. By studying in the Scandinavian country, you will get to experience sustainable hostels, see how they use renewable energy, and learn how the country earned its EPI score. Plus, Denmark is conveniently located between Northern Europe and Western Europe which makes traveling to both regions easier.
• Recommended program: AIFS Study Abroad: Sustainable Cities: Summer

2. Switzerland

• Why: Home to some of Europe’s best universities, Switzerland can be a great option—especially if you are curious about research, public health, or environmental health. The country has invested a lot in research and development and is home to the headquarters of many international organizations. Also, think of all the gorgeous mountain vistas and the delicious Swiss cheese!
• Recommended program: Switzerland: Global Health and Development Policy

3. Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity makes it one of the best places to study abroad for environmental science.

• Why: Costa Rica may be a small country but it holds 2.5% of the biodiversity in the world. Famous for its national parks, Costa Rica is the type of country where you can spot toucans, monkeys, and parrots as you’re walking around. By studying in the Central American country, you can see how people live in harmony with nature. Plus, if you want to learn Spanish, it’s two birds with one stone. Costa Rica is one of the 21 countries that have Spanish as the official language.
• Recommended program: CIEE Sustainability + the Environment in Costa Rica

4. Brazil

• Why: 60% of the Amazon rainforest is located in Brazil. Imagine how many different species of animals and plants you can see in this enormous country. If you’re interested in the conservation aspect of environmental sciences, Brazil’s biodiversity and nature will no doubt amaze you. Besides rainforests and beaches, Brazil also has an amazing culture, full of music, dance, and festivals.
• Recommended program: Earth Expeditions in Brazil: Saving Golden Lion Tamarins

5. South Africa

• Why: South Africa has many environmental issues to explore, such as the current water crisis. The country is investing in the green economy, which means that environmental science majors have many opportunities to find work. If you end up going to South Africa, you will not only find diversity in nature but also in the culture. There are 11 official languages in the country.
• Recommended program: Wildlife Conservation Training Course

6. Japan

• Why: Japan aims to get 36-38% of its energy from renewables in less than 10 years. We should also keep in mind that the Fukushima nuclear disaster was only in 2011. If you choose Japan for your study abroad experience, you can learn how they took lessons from the past, and you’ll get to experience one of the world’s most distinct cultures.
• Recommended program: Japan: Disaster Mitigation & Nuclear to Renewable Transition

7. Australia

You can’t go wrong by studying abroad in Australia if you want to research ocean wildlife.

• Why: Besides being a popular choice among travelers, Australia is also one of the best countries to study environmental science. With world-class universities, more than 10,000 stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and three oceans surrounding the country, you will definitely find somewhere that interests you.
• Recommended program: Australia: Sustainability and Environmental Action

8. New Zealand

• Why: The entire Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in New Zealand, and it’s not so hard to understand why. From snow-capped mountains to fjords, golden sand beaches to oceans, this country has it all. Plus, environmental scientists are in demand in New Zealand. This might make it easier to get a job after your studies if you want to experience working abroad as well.
• Recommended program: New Zealand + Australia: Conservation-Based Service Learning

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 Environmental Science programs abroad—it’s free!

The right destination will push your experience even further!

The world becomes your classroom as an environmental science major studying abroad.

So will you study abroad in Asia, Europe, America, or Africa? As you can see, the world is your oyster as an aspiring environmental scientist. All you have to do is to choose the right place that aligns with your goals and interests.

The best country to study environmental science depends on what your expectations are. No matter where you go, an amazing experience is waiting for you, literally all around the world.