PhD in Environmental Science: Eligibility, Admissions 2025, Exams, Fees, Job & Salary

• Updated on  14 Aug, 2025 by Kirti Mehendiratta

PhD Environmental Science is a doctorate course for a period of 3 to 6 years, depending on research progress. The course aims to produce a deep understanding of climate change, sustainable development, environmental pollution, biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management.

 

To be eligible for a PhD in Environmental Science, candidates must have a master's degree in a related field and a minimum grade of 55%. Some of the popular entrance exams for a PhD in Environmental Science include UGC-NET, GATE, and CUET-PG.

 

PhD in Environmental Science provides candidates with the knowledge in biodiversity conservation, ecology, environmental chemistry, climate change, pollution control and sustainable resource management. Some of the job roles available for them are Natural Resource Specialist, Microbiologist, Environmentalist, Wildlife Biologist and many more.

 

Salaries for fresh PhD graduates are competitive and vary by sector and expertise. PhD holders in Environmental Science can expect an average package in the range of INR 6 - 12 LPA.

 

Table of Contents
  1. PhD in Environmental Science Highlights
  2. What is a PhD in Environmental Science?
  3. Why Study PhD in Environmental Science?
  4. Who Should Study Ph D in Environmental Science?
  5. PhD in Environmental Science Eligibility
  6. PhD in Environmental Science Entrance Exams
  7. PhD in Environmental Science Admission Process
  8. PhD in Environmental Science Syllabus
  9. PhD Environmental Science Top Colleges
  10. PhD in Environmental Science Vs PhD in Environmental Engineering Course Comparison
  11. PhD in Environmental Science Jobs
  12. PhD in Environmental Science FAQs

 

PhD in Environmental Science Highlights

The basic details of a PhD in Environmental Science are as follows:

Particulars

Course Details

Course Name

PhD Environmental Science

Duration

3 - 6 Years

Eligibility

Candidates must have a master's degree in a related field, and a minimum grade of 55% and should have cleared entrance exams like UGC-NET, GATE, CUET-PG.

Admission Process

Entrance Based

Entrance Examinations

GATE/ UGC-NET/CUET (PG)

Average Course Fees

INR 50,000-1,00,00

Career Prospects

Microbiologist, Environmentalist, Natural Resource Specialist and Wildlife Biologist

Average Package after PhD

INR 6 - 12 LPA

 

What is a PhD in Environmental Science?

PhD in Environmental Science is a 3 to 6 year doctorate course that provides knowledge to the students in research and study aspects of climate change, biodiversity conservation and pollution control. Like, a candidate studies the impact of plastic pollution on marine life, which helps to develop solutions for waste management and protecting ocean ecosystems.

 

It focuses on research that studies the environment and how to address environmental issues. It provides individuals with in-depth expertise, strong research capabilities and enhanced critical thinking skills.

 

Why Study PhD in Environmental Science?

A PhD in Environmental Science is a study that opens up various career opportunities in research and academia. The course provides in-depth knowledge of ecosystem conservation, climate change mitigation, and pollution control.

 

Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science is in demand because there is a high need for experts to address challenges like pollution, climate change, and sustainable resource management.

 

Who Should Study Ph D in Environmental Science?

Given below are some of the basic points on who should pursue a Ph.D in Environmental Science:

  • Individuals passionate about solving real-world environmental problems like climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
  • Professionals aiming for research or academic careers in universities, research institutes, or think tanks focused on environmental studies.
  • Those interested in influencing environmental policy and working with government bodies, NGOs, or international organizations.
  • Scientists or graduates who want to develop advanced skills in areas such as ecology, environmental chemistry, geoscience, or sustainability.
  • People looking to lead projects in industries where environmental impact assessment and sustainable practices are key.

 

PhD in Environmental Science Eligibility

Students should have the following eligibility to take admission in the PhD in Environmental Science:

  • The candidates must have a master's degree in Environmental Science/Environmental Management or a relevant degree with a minimum grade of 55%.
  • The admission to the Ph D Environmental Science is based on the entrance exam scores, such as CSIR NET/UGC NET/GATE.

 

PhD in Environmental Science Entrance Exams

Some of the popular entrance exams for a PhD in Environmental Science include UGC-NET, GATE, and CUET-PG.

Entrances

Application Date

Exam Date

Application Fees

UGC NET 2026

April - May 2026

June 2026

General: INR 1,150

 

OBC-NCL/EWS: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PWD: INR 325

GATE 2026

September 2025

February 2026

Female/SC/ST/PWD Candidates Registration Fee: INR 900

 

INR 1800 for all candidates, including foreign nationals

 

Extended registration period with late fee (INR 1400, INR 2300)

CSIR NET 2026

June 2026

July 2026

General/EWS: INR 1150

 

OBC-NCL: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PWD: INR 325

 

PhD in Environmental Science Admission Process

The admission to the Ph D Environmental Science is based on the entrance exam scores. Students need to have a valid entrance exam score in either UGC NET/GATE/CSIR NET etc.

 

For your reference, given below is the step-by-step admission process for the MIT WPU, Pune.

 

Step 1: Start by visiting the official website of the MIT World Peace University. The student must be eligible first in order to pursue the course.

 

Step 2: After visiting the website, students need to click on the “Apply Now” button to apply for the course.

 

Step 3: Students need to fill out the application form in order to apply for the course. The application form will require you to fill in the necessary information along with your academic records.

 

Step 4: Students need to keep in mind that only the candidate with a valid score in CSIR NET/GATE/UGC NET, etc. If not, students need to appear in the MIT WPU CET.

 

Step 5: After getting shortlisted, the student will be called for personal interviews or for thesis submission.

 

Step 6: The last step is to submit the fees for the course. After submitting the fees, the student will be

 

PhD in Environmental Science Syllabus

The Ph D in Environmental Science syllabus dives into the research of the complex environmental challenges. For your reference, given below is the Ph.D in Environmental Science syllabus followed at MIT World Peace University, Pune.

Part I: Research Methodology

Foundation of Research

Research Problem Identification & Formulation

Research Design

Qualitative and Quantitative Research

Data Collection and Analysis

Measurement

Sampling

Data Analysis

Interpretation of Data and Paper Writing

Use of Tools / Techniques for Research

Communication and Presentation Skills

Application to Contexts and Ethics

Patent Laws

General Mental Ability

Part II: Subject-Specific Syllabus (Environmental Science)

Environmental Chemistry

Ecology and Ecosystem Dynamics

Climate Change and Mitigation

Environmental Policy and Governance

Pollution Control and Remediation

Sustainable Development

Environmental Risk Assessment

Environmental Monitoring and Data Analysis

Ethical Theories and their Application to Environmental Issues

Environmental Education and Communication

 

PhD Environmental Science Top Colleges

Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Environmental Science, based on the NIRF Ranking 2024, are as follows:

College Name

Location

NIRF Ranking 2024 (Research Institution)

Course Fees (Semester Fees)

Lovely Professional University

Phagwara, Punjab

44

INR 50,000

Amity University

Noida, Uttar Pradesh

47

INR 50,000

SGT University

Gurugram, Haryana

-

INR 75,000

SRM University

Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh

24

INR 75,000

University of Rajasthan

Jaipur, Rajasthan

-

-

 

PhD in Environmental Science Vs PhD in Environmental Engineering Course Comparison

Given below is the detailed course comparison for the Ph D Environmental Science and PhD in Environmental Engineering for the students:

Aspect

Ph.D. in Environmental Science

Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering

Focus Area

Focuses on studying the natural environment, ecosystems, climate change, pollution, and conservation.

Focuses on applying engineering principles to solve environmental problems, such as waste treatment, water purification, and pollution control.

Nature of Study

Research-oriented, emphasizing theoretical knowledge, field studies, and scientific experiments.

Application-oriented, combining scientific knowledge with engineering design and technological solutions.

Common Research Topics

Climate change, environmental toxicology, biodiversity conservation, soil and water quality, and air pollution.

Wastewater management, air pollution control systems, renewable energy technologies, sustainable infrastructure, waste management systems.

Required Background

Usually requires a Master’s in Environmental Science, Ecology, Biology, or related fields.

Usually requires a Master’s in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines.

Skills Developed

Analytical skills, scientific research methods, data interpretation, and environmental impact assessment.

Engineering design, problem-solving, project management, and application of environmental technologies.

Career Opportunities

Research scientist, environmental consultant, policy analyst, conservation officer, NGO roles.

Environmental engineer, sustainability consultant, project manager, design engineer, industrial waste treatment specialist.

Typical Duration

3–6 years

3–6 years

Average Salary Range (India)

INR 6 LPA – INR 10 LPA

INR 7 LPA – INR 12 LPA

Top Recruiters

TERI, WWF-India, National Geographic Society, MoEFCC, UNEP.

Larsen & Toubro, Tata Projects, Jacobs Engineering, AECOM, WSP.

 

PhD in Environmental Science Jobs

There are various job roles available for PhD holders in Environmental Science. As per Payscale, the average package of various job roles according to the years of experience are mentioned in the table below:

Job Roles

Experience Range

Salary Range (INR)

Top Recruiters

Microbiologist

0–8 years

3–8 LPA

Biocon, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Syngene, Lupin

Wildlife Biologist

0–9 years

3–9 LPA

WWF India, Wildlife Trust of India, BNHS, WII

Natural Resource Specialist

0–12 years

6–12 LPA

TERI, ICF International, UNEP, Forest Research Institute

Environmentalist

0–10 years

4–10 LPA

Greenpeace India, CSE India, NEERI, TERI

 

PhD in Environmental Science FAQs

Is it worth getting a PhD in environmental science?

Yes, it’s worth pursuing a PhD in Environmental Science, especially for those who want to have an in-depth understanding of ecosystem management, sustainable development, environmental pollution, and biodiversity conservation ecosystem management.

What are the career options available after a Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science?

After PhD in environmental science, one can pursue a career as an Environmentalist, Natural Resource Specialist, Microbiologist, or Wildlife Biologist.

Can one pursue a PhD in environmental science after doing MSc in Zoology?

Yes, one can pursue this course after completing an MSc in Zoology, as Zoology provides a good understanding of ecological principles and animal biology, which are related to many environmental science research areas.

Can I start a Ph.D. in Environmental Science right after my Bachelor’s degree?

Students will need a master’s degree if they want to pursue a Doctorate in Environmental Science. However, some universities, especially outside India, lets you apply directly after a Bachelor’s degree only if you have excellent grades and some research experience.

What if my background isn’t in environmental science? What should I learn first?

If the student is from other field it’s better to build basics in biology, chemistry, and math. Learning statistics and a bit of coding (like Python or R) will also help, since these skills are often needed for research and data work.

How long does it usually take to finish a Ph.D. in Environmental Science?

Most students take around 4 to 6 years to complete it. The time depends on your research topic, how quickly you finish your experiments or fieldwork, and how fast you write your thesis.

Explore Other Popular Ph.D. in Environmental science Colleges

Exam Accepting

Online|
PG|
IITs and IISc|
Engineering
Exam1 Feb, 2025
Result19 Mar, 2025
Online|
PG|
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)|
Management
Exam30 Nov, 2025
Result19 Dec, 2025
Online|
PG|
Xavier Labour Relations Institute|
Management
Exam5 Jan, 2025
Result17 Jan, 2025
Online|
PG|
Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies|
Management
Exam5 Nov, 2025 - 23 Dec, 2025
Result5 Nov, 2025 - 24 Dec, 2025
Online|
UG|
Consortium of National Law Universities|
Law
Exam1 Dec, 2024
Result17 May, 2025
Online|
PG|
Government of Odisha|
Management
Exam-
Result6 Jun, 2025
Online|
PG|
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)|
Design
Exam19 Jan, 2025
Result5 Mar, 2025
Online|
PG|
National Testing Agency
Exam7 Sept, 2024 - 9 Sept, 2024
Result22 Feb, 2025
Online|
PG|
CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)
Exam25 Jul, 2024 - 27 Jul, 2024
Result12 Sept, 2024
Online/Offline|
UG|
All India Management Association (AIMA)
Exam-
Result

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