Options at 16+

Your options on leaving school or college

You have finished year 11 - so what is next? You are now faced with important choices that will shape your future, so you need to think about your options carefully. The more information you have, the better the decision you will make for you and the future.

What are the options?

• Continuing your general education at school or college
• Taking a vocational course - training for a specific job or area of work
• Starting a work-based training course (e.g. a Modern Apprenticeship)
• Finding a job (with or without training)
• Self-employment
• Voluntary work

Which option will be the best match for the kind of things you are good at and the activities you enjoy? If you already have an idea of the type of work you are interested in, you will need to think about how your interests and abilities relate to this area of work. Research the opportunities available on the internet - what are your prospects? Where could each option take you? If possible, arrange some relevant work experience or voluntary work. This will show you are interested and could give you an advantage of others applying for the job.
Making these choices can seem a daunting prospect, but getting some good careers advice will make the process a lot easier. Speak to your careers advisor at school, subject teachers, family, friends, or local careers office. If you know people who are studying /doing the job you are interested in, then ask them what it is like and get advice on getting started.

Options at 18+

Having completed your 'A' level qualifications, you could find yourself at a crossroads again. Choices at this stage are even more important to your future career, so take some time to really think about your decision. Your main options are:

• higher education
• vocational training
• self-employment
• a gap year
• employment with or without training

Speak to your careers advisor, subject teachers, family, friends, or local careers office for information and advice to help make the right choice for you.

Higher education: Degree courses

There are lots of undergraduate degree courses available. Some degrees are academic while others take a more practical and vocational approach. If there is a subject you are passionate about this is a great chance for you to study it in more depth. However, you also need to think about what you want to do once you graduate - if you have a specific career in mind that may determine which courses you can consider. Make sure the course gives you the qualification you need and is approved by the relevant professional bodies.

• How long will a degree course take? Most undergraduate degrees in England and Wales last for three years, though some of the vocational based courses and language degrees do take four or more, with a sandwich year to put skills into practice. Scottish degree courses generally last for four years.
• What is a sandwich course? Some degrees include an industrial placement or a year abroad. These are called sandwich courses and tend to be in the more vocational subjects (such as Engineering) or in language subjects.
• What are the entry requirements? Entry requirements vary for different courses at different universities and colleges - have a look on the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) website for more information (see Further Information).
• How do you apply? Application is by the UCAS application form. This can be ordered over the internet or you can apply through your school or college. Deadlines for applications vary for different courses and institutions - so make sure you check on the UCAS website and send off your application in plenty of time.

There are some important benefits to going on to higher education:

• research shows that graduates generally earn more than those who have not got a degree
• gaining a degree qualification can improve your chances of getting the job you really want
• you will find a wide range of activities, clubs and societies on offer at most universities and colleges - it is a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy other hobbies while studying something you are really interested in
• you will have much more say about the direction your learning takes than you have had before.

Foundation Degrees

Foundation degrees combine academic study with workplace learning. They are vocationally-based and you will spend some time working in business or industry. A full-time course usually takes two years and the qualification you gain is roughly equivalent to the first two years of a bachelors degree. They are offered by universities in partnership with higher education colleges and further education colleges. Taking a Foundation Degree could lead you on to higher education or straight in to a job.

Making Career Choices

Deciding on a career path and finding a suitable job can be a daunting task. You will need to ask yourself questions such as: what do I want to do? How do I know if a job is going to be right for me? Where do I start looking?
This guide will show you how to go about selecting the right career for you, where to start looking for jobs, and techniques to help you secure the job that you want.
The task of finding a career will seem a lot less overwhelming if you have a structured and methodical approach.

Self-analysis

It might sound a bit clichéd, but the first step is to get to know yourself really well. You need to stand back and take a good look at yourself before making any decisions about your future.
Start by making a list of the following:

• your achievements
• your interests
• your abilities

Your achievements

While your formal qualifications are important, do not overlook your other achievements. They could play a key part in determining the right type of job for you. For example, you may have certificates, such as a Duke of Edinburgh award or a driving licence, or times you have worked well in a team or under pressure, being captain of a sports team, your position or involvement in clubs or societies.

Your interests

A job does not just have to be a source of income - it can be something you genuinely find motivating and interesting. So take some time to think about what you enjoy most in life and what gives you a feeling of satisfaction. Do you enjoy socialising and being with or helping people? Do you prefer problem-solving or pulling things apart to see how they work? Are you the creative type? Do you enjoy writing stories or poetry or designing clothes? What compliments or criticism do you get from people who know you well? What are you good at? Make a list of all of these things to help structure what it is you are looking for in a job.

Your abilities

The more often you do something, the better you will become. You are more likely to do things you enjoy regularly; your interests and abilities will often overlap. Note next to your interests what skills/abilities are involved. Your list may include some of the following:

• solving problems
• artistic flair
• creative imagination
• involvement in outdoor pursuits
• using computers
• helping people
• working with numbers
• carrying out practical tasks
• working with others in a team
• leading a team
• performing scientific tasks/experiments
• listening to problems
• responding well to competition or a challenge

The list will highlight your skills that could be useful in a job. Employers will mention required skills on job descriptions, even if they are not described in the same way that you think of them. For example:

• good interpersonal skills - you work well with people and respond to the needs of others
• communication skills - you express yourself clearly and concisely
• good organisational skills
• IT-literate - you can use a computer to carry out tasks
• logic and reasoning skills - you are good at problem-solving
• numerate - you can work with numbers
• initiative - you can think through a problem independently

Career in Biotechnology

Bio-Technology is the use of living things, especially cells and bacteria in industrial process. It covers a wide variety of subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and is also concerned with many other subjects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed Technology etc. 

The applications include developing various medicines, vaccines and diagnostics, increasing productivity, improving energy production and conservation. Biotechnology's intervention in the area of animal husbandry has improved animal breeding. It also helps to improve the quality of seeds, insecticides and fertilizers. Environmental biotechnology helps for pollution control and waste management. 

The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in 1986 under the Ministry of Science and Technology gave a new boost to the development of the of modern biology and biotechnology in India.

More than 6000 biotechnologists of higher skill are required, the department of Biotechnology (DBT) has highlighted the need to set up a regulatory body for the maintenance of standard education under the name of 'All- India Board of Biotechnology Education and Training' under the AICTE. 

Branches and Application of Biotechnology

Today, Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary activity involving, chemists, biologists, engineers and many other specialists. It scope is enormous. There are sophisticated new drugs produced in the milk of transgenic sheep, microbial cocktails that can clean up contaminated land transgenic plants and fish that yield more food or resist disease - and hundreds of different micro-organism able to produce fermentation products such as amino acids, vitamins, enzymes and antibiotics.

It is playing a major role in serving the mankind. Be it in forms of improved plant varieties or developing vaccines. It is widely used in food industry, enabling cattle to grow faster and produce new enzymes and making cheese. Some of the prominent areas of its application are given below:

Career in Biotechnology

Bio-Technology is the use of living things, especially cells and bacteria in industrial process. It covers a wide variety of subjects like Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Immunology, Virology, Chemistry and Engineering and is also concerned with many other subjects like Health and Medicine, Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Cropping system and Crop Management, Ecology, Cell Biology, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Bio-statistics, Plant Physiology, Seed Technology etc. 

The applications include developing various medicines, vaccines and diagnostics, increasing productivity, improving energy production and conservation. Biotechnology's intervention in the area of animal husbandry has improved animal breeding. It also helps to improve the quality of seeds, insecticides and fertilizers. Environmental biotechnology helps for pollution control and waste management. 

The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in 1986 under the Ministry of Science and Technology gave a new boost to the development of the of modern biology and biotechnology in India.

More than 6000 biotechnologists of higher skill are required, the department of Biotechnology (DBT) has highlighted the need to set up a regulatory body for the maintenance of standard education under the name of 'All- India Board of Biotechnology Education and Training' under the AICTE. 

Branches and Application of Biotechnology

Today, Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary activity involving, chemists, biologists, engineers and many other specialists. It scope is enormous. There are sophisticated new drugs produced in the milk of transgenic sheep, microbial cocktails that can clean up contaminated land transgenic plants and fish that yield more food or resist disease - and hundreds of different micro-organism able to produce fermentation products such as amino acids, vitamins, enzymes and antibiotics.

It is playing a major role in serving the mankind. Be it in forms of improved plant varieties or developing vaccines. It is widely used in food industry, enabling cattle to grow faster and produce new enzymes and making cheese. Some of the prominent areas of its application are given below:

Career in Electronics and communication engineering

Electronics and communication engineers design, develop, and supervise the production of electronics devices such as GPS devices, CD players, televisions, or communication devices. Electronics engineers may work on devices utilizing computers, but do not have the same specialties as computer hardware engineers. Electronics engineers also specialize in signal processing, control systems, and communications. Some engineers could specialize in a specific area, such as aviation electronics.

Before mobile phones and internet came into existence, the mode of communication had been via messengers. Messengers existed in different forms pigeons, people, smoke signals etc.

Coming to 21st century and you would find people using all kinds of wireless devices to communicate. So, ever wondered how your 12.9mm cell phone catches signals at the remotest areas. Well, it’s all the work of communication engineers.

What is Electronics & Communication Engineering?

Society relies on Electronics & Communication Engineering for breakthroughs in applications such as satellites, next generation mobile phones, air-traffic control, the Internet etc.

Communication systems are designed by communication engineers. Early inventors in the field include Elisha Gray, Guglielmo Marconi and John Logie Baird. In recent times, optical fibre has radically improved the bandwidth available for intercontinental communication, facilitating a faster and richer Internet experience. And, digital television has eliminated effects such as snowy pictures and ghosting. Communication remains an important part of world economy. The industry’s revenue is placed at just under 3 percent of the gross world product.

What are Functions of Electronics & Communication Engineer?

Typically, an Electronics & Communication Engineer will perform following work:

• Manage engineering team
• Design the communications equipment including modems, switches, routers and radio links
• Develop real-time computer systems, including embedded computer systems and their software.
• Build and test prototypes of new equipment including integrated circuit components.
• Predict communication systems performance
• Optimize the performance of communications systems
• Provide technical support to marketing or customer service staff and communications technicians.
• Train technical and engineering staff for new system installed.
• Supervise special research projects on next generation communication systems.

What to study in Electronics & Communication Engineering?

At the initial level, students concentrate on core units for electrical engineering: mathematics, physics, electrical and computer systems engineering, digital logic systems, computer organization and programming.
Later on the study includes communications, information transmission, electromagnetic theory, signals and systems, electronics and control systems, engineering management, communications electives and group and individual projects. 

Throughout the course, students choose from a range of electives, including Image Processing, Data Compression and Encryption, Radar Engineering, Microwave Integrated Circuits, Simulation of Communications Systems, Optical Networks, Wireless Networks, Internet Communication Engineering, Microwave Amplifiers and Oscillator Design, Communication Network Management.

They learn about the planning and design, commissioning, performance monitoring, optimization and management of both small scale and complex communications systems.

Career in Electronics and Communication Engineering

Employment opportunities for Electronics and Communication Engineers are growing rapidly. The list of employers includes manufacturers of radio, television, audio/visual, broadcasting and receiving equipments, hardware and associated software including computer systems, interfaces, security devices, data concentration, data transmission, signaling, satellite and radio communications and telephone equipment. Graduate also work in service organizations that provide broadcasting, consulting, data communications, entertainment, custom manufacturing, research and development, and system support.

Multimedia services are establishing employment opportunities not dreamed of years ago, for example video conferencing, interactive video on demand, internet broadcasting of conferences and training programmes and the real-time transfer of vast amounts of information.

Companies around the world are competing to be the first to market products such as digital mobile phones and network components that support the full range of Internet services into compact integrated circuit chip sets. Specialised terminal equipment will become available for new and innovative applications, including telepresence and shared virtual-reality worlds, with almost all existing communication network equipment being improved or replaced with exciting new technologies. 

Communication has be acknowledged as a vital ingredient for technology growing in leaps and bounds. Electronics and Communication Engineers are much in demand, as a nation’s hopes of development rests on their shoulders.

Career in Electronics and communication engineering

Electronics and communication engineers design, develop, and supervise the production of electronics devices such as GPS devices, CD players, televisions, or communication devices. Electronics engineers may work on devices utilizing computers, but do not have the same specialties as computer hardware engineers. Electronics engineers also specialize in signal processing, control systems, and communications. Some engineers could specialize in a specific area, such as aviation electronics.

Before mobile phones and internet came into existence, the mode of communication had been via messengers. Messengers existed in different forms pigeons, people, smoke signals etc.

Coming to 21st century and you would find people using all kinds of wireless devices to communicate. So, ever wondered how your 12.9mm cell phone catches signals at the remotest areas. Well, it’s all the work of communication engineers.

What is Electronics & Communication Engineering?

Society relies on Electronics & Communication Engineering for breakthroughs in applications such as satellites, next generation mobile phones, air-traffic control, the Internet etc.

Communication systems are designed by communication engineers. Early inventors in the field include Elisha Gray, Guglielmo Marconi and John Logie Baird. In recent times, optical fibre has radically improved the bandwidth available for intercontinental communication, facilitating a faster and richer Internet experience. And, digital television has eliminated effects such as snowy pictures and ghosting. Communication remains an important part of world economy. The industry’s revenue is placed at just under 3 percent of the gross world product.

What are Functions of Electronics & Communication Engineer?

Typically, an Electronics & Communication Engineer will perform following work:

• Manage engineering team
• Design the communications equipment including modems, switches, routers and radio links
• Develop real-time computer systems, including embedded computer systems and their software.
• Build and test prototypes of new equipment including integrated circuit components.
• Predict communication systems performance
• Optimize the performance of communications systems
• Provide technical support to marketing or customer service staff and communications technicians.
• Train technical and engineering staff for new system installed.
• Supervise special research projects on next generation communication systems.

What to study in Electronics & Communication Engineering?

At the initial level, students concentrate on core units for electrical engineering: mathematics, physics, electrical and computer systems engineering, digital logic systems, computer organization and programming.
Later on the study includes communications, information transmission, electromagnetic theory, signals and systems, electronics and control systems, engineering management, communications electives and group and individual projects. 

Throughout the course, students choose from a range of electives, including Image Processing, Data Compression and Encryption, Radar Engineering, Microwave Integrated Circuits, Simulation of Communications Systems, Optical Networks, Wireless Networks, Internet Communication Engineering, Microwave Amplifiers and Oscillator Design, Communication Network Management.

They learn about the planning and design, commissioning, performance monitoring, optimization and management of both small scale and complex communications systems.

Career in Electronics and Communication Engineering

Employment opportunities for Electronics and Communication Engineers are growing rapidly. The list of employers includes manufacturers of radio, television, audio/visual, broadcasting and receiving equipments, hardware and associated software including computer systems, interfaces, security devices, data concentration, data transmission, signaling, satellite and radio communications and telephone equipment. Graduate also work in service organizations that provide broadcasting, consulting, data communications, entertainment, custom manufacturing, research and development, and system support.

Multimedia services are establishing employment opportunities not dreamed of years ago, for example video conferencing, interactive video on demand, internet broadcasting of conferences and training programmes and the real-time transfer of vast amounts of information.

Companies around the world are competing to be the first to market products such as digital mobile phones and network components that support the full range of Internet services into compact integrated circuit chip sets. Specialised terminal equipment will become available for new and innovative applications, including telepresence and shared virtual-reality worlds, with almost all existing communication network equipment being improved or replaced with exciting new technologies. 

Communication has be acknowledged as a vital ingredient for technology growing in leaps and bounds. Electronics and Communication Engineers are much in demand, as a nation’s hopes of development rests on their shoulders.

Career in Electrical and electronics engineering

Electrical and electronics engineers are involved in a wide variety of technology ranging from huge global positioning systems which can pinpoint the location of a moving vehicle to gigantic electrical power generators. These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing as well supervising the production of electrical and electronic equipment and machinery. Broadcast and telecommunication systems, electric motors, controls of machinery, lights and wiring in building complexes, vehicles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, power generation, control and transmission devices which are used by electric utilities are all examples of equipment built by these engineers. They may also work in fields which relate to computers and IT. However, those engineers who deal exclusively with computer hardware are called computer hardware engineers- an engineering specialty with is discussed separately in the Handbook.

Electrical and electronics engineers may choose to specialize in various areas like power generation, transmission and distribution; communications; manufacture of electrical equipment etc or a one particular specialty within these area; foe e.g. industrial robot control systems or aviation electronics. These engineers are involved in designing new products, writing requirements for their performance, as well as developing maintenance schedules and charts. Testing equipment and machinery, solving operation problems, estimating time and cost of electrical and electronic products also come under their job.

In 2002, electrical and electronics engineers had around 292,000 jobs and constituted the largest branch of engineering. Most of these engineers were employed in professional, scientific, and technical services firms as well as government agencies. Manufacturers of computer and electronic equipment and machinery also employed these engineers. The remaining engineers were absorbed by firms which deal in wholesale trade, communications, and utilities.

Job and employment opportunities

Favorable employment opportunities are predicted for electrical and electronic engineers. Job opportunities which would result from retirement and transfers of existing electrical and electronic engineers are in proportion with the degree granted to these graduates and thus demand for these workers roughly equals their supply.

Although the employment opportunities for electrical and electronic engineers are predicted to grow through 2012, their growth rate is slower than the growth of other occupations. Even though there is a rise in demand for electrical and electronic products, (including advanced communication goods) defense-related electronic products, and consumer electronics equipment, competition from abroad and increased use of electronic and electrical engineering services in foreign countries, hinder domestic employment. The growth rate of employment opportunities are predicted to be highest in the service industries which provide electronic engineering expertise.

It is imperative that electrical and electronic engineers continue their education. Those who do not keep abreast of latest advances in technology are at the risk of either loosing jobs or loosing good promotion opportunities.

Career in Electrical and electronics engineering

Electrical and electronics engineers are involved in a wide variety of technology ranging from huge global positioning systems which can pinpoint the location of a moving vehicle to gigantic electrical power generators. These engineers are responsible for designing, developing, testing as well supervising the production of electrical and electronic equipment and machinery. Broadcast and telecommunication systems, electric motors, controls of machinery, lights and wiring in building complexes, vehicles, aircraft, radar and navigation systems, power generation, control and transmission devices which are used by electric utilities are all examples of equipment built by these engineers. They may also work in fields which relate to computers and IT. However, those engineers who deal exclusively with computer hardware are called computer hardware engineers- an engineering specialty with is discussed separately in the Handbook.

Electrical and electronics engineers may choose to specialize in various areas like power generation, transmission and distribution; communications; manufacture of electrical equipment etc or a one particular specialty within these area; foe e.g. industrial robot control systems or aviation electronics. These engineers are involved in designing new products, writing requirements for their performance, as well as developing maintenance schedules and charts. Testing equipment and machinery, solving operation problems, estimating time and cost of electrical and electronic products also come under their job.

In 2002, electrical and electronics engineers had around 292,000 jobs and constituted the largest branch of engineering. Most of these engineers were employed in professional, scientific, and technical services firms as well as government agencies. Manufacturers of computer and electronic equipment and machinery also employed these engineers. The remaining engineers were absorbed by firms which deal in wholesale trade, communications, and utilities.

Job and employment opportunities

Favorable employment opportunities are predicted for electrical and electronic engineers. Job opportunities which would result from retirement and transfers of existing electrical and electronic engineers are in proportion with the degree granted to these graduates and thus demand for these workers roughly equals their supply.

Although the employment opportunities for electrical and electronic engineers are predicted to grow through 2012, their growth rate is slower than the growth of other occupations. Even though there is a rise in demand for electrical and electronic products, (including advanced communication goods) defense-related electronic products, and consumer electronics equipment, competition from abroad and increased use of electronic and electrical engineering services in foreign countries, hinder domestic employment. The growth rate of employment opportunities are predicted to be highest in the service industries which provide electronic engineering expertise.

It is imperative that electrical and electronic engineers continue their education. Those who do not keep abreast of latest advances in technology are at the risk of either loosing jobs or loosing good promotion opportunities.

Career in Environmental engineering

Environmental engineers combine the knowledge of biology and chemistry to devise solutions to environmental problems. Concerns such as air and water pollution, recycling wastes, waste disposal and other public health issues, fall under their field. Environmental engineers study waste management of hazardous substances in order to analyze the risk, the treatment and the methods of containing such hazards. They also sketch regulations so as to prevent the occurrence of mishaps. Municipal water supply systems and industrial wastewater treatment systems are both designed by environmental engineers. They are also in charge of conducting research on proposed projects for the benefit of the environment, analyzing scientific data, and performing quality control checks.

Introduction

A drastic increase in environmental pollution across the globe has led to various research and development works in an effort to contain this menace and a relatively new discipline called environmental engineering has emerged which is providing excellent career opportunities. Environmental engineers apply combined methods of science and engineering to improve the environment so that people have access to healthy water, air and land suitable for human existence. Moreover, opportunities in environmental engineering have increased in last couple of decades and the professionals are recruited by companies working in chemical, geological, petroleum and mining sectors. 
Environmental engineers specialising in basic sciences, ecology, economics, social sciences, and radiological science as well as civil, mechanical and electrical engineers have attractive career options. A qualified professional working for an environmental engineering firm is expected to design, construct and maintain waste management systems so that urban and rural areas are kept healthy. Job of environmental engineers in India is expected to widen up as owing to tremendous economic development the country is facing high degree of environmental pollution and environmental engineers will have to check it.

Step-by-Step

Environmental engineering as a discipline is available at undergraduate level and post-graduate level as well as research level. Whereas B.Sc. in environmental science has duration of 3 years, M.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is of two years duration. A candidate with 10+2 in Physics, Chemistry and Biology can apply for B.Sc. course in Environmental Engineering. Similarly, B.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is required as eligibility criterion for M.Sc. 
Besides undergraduate and post-graduate courses, PG diploma course in Environmental Engineering is popular among candidates for it is an extensive course aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills in environment science. Students with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in 10+2 can opt for B.E in Environmental Engineering. MTech in Energy & Environment Management is another attractive option which can be exercised after doing B.E or BTech in environmental or civil engineering.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Deciding whether or not environmental engineering is a suitable career will require you to think with passion rather than your brains, at the same time keeping your abilities in mind. If you are fervent about the environment and your surroundings with a scientific aptitude, then this is certainly the field to choose. A career in environmental engineering can be challenging as the candidate is expected to come up with revolutionary solutions for various environmental issues. However, the sector is quite attractive in terms of pay packages. Although a comparatively new career, environmental engineering is devoid of cut throat competition and candidates can get admission and jobs in various firms working in environment engineering with relatively less efforts.

What would it Cost Me?

A BTech in environmental engineering costs more than Rs 3 lakhs to candidates; the fee is inclusive of hostel and library charges. Fee is charged semester wise. Some private colleges can charge even more for the course. Similarly, MTech in environmental engineering can cost more than Rs 2 lakhs in four semesters. Various PG diploma courses in environmental engineering can be a cheap solution or substitute for MTech. Courses in government colleges and IITs and NITs are available at subsidised fees but the competition is tough.

Funding/Scholarship

Scholarships such as Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College Students in India, Indian Oil Corporation Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students, Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) Fellowship and MHRD scholarship assistantship for Post Graduate Engineering, etc are considered some of the leading scholarships in India.
Similarly, NTPC Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) Scholarships are offered to candidates belonging to backward classes. Various commercial banks in India offer education loans at attractive interest rate to engineering students. It is always advisable to visit a loan provider and discuss various terms and conditions before taking an education loan.

Job Prospects

Environmental engineering has immense scope in India for professionals who are qualified in chemical, biological, thermal, radioactive or even mechanical engineering as environmental engineering is a diverse field and requires people from diverse background. Moreover, professionals from process engineering, environmental chemistry, water and sewage treatment, waste reduction management, pollution prevention, etc are required in large numbers. 
Job prospects for professionals with qualification in environmental engineering are bright in research centres, NGOs and various governmental departments working towards green development. Candidates with M.Tech in environmental engineering have opportunities to work for government built assessment committees which study and analyse the environmental risks involved in certain projects. The report of such a committee is then submitted to the concerned authority for further observation. Scholars with PhD in environmental engineering can opt for teaching jobs in colleges and universities.

International Focus

International firms and supra-national bodies like UNO require candidates with qualification and exposure in environment technology for various projects. Jobs in such projects are not only high paying in terms of salaries but attractive in terms of facilities and amenities offered. The US on the other hand offers attractive salary packages for environmental engineers where median salary for an environmental engineer is 80,000$.

Pay Packet

Environmental engineers have umpteen employment opportunities with Central and State pollution control boards which work towards maintaining clean environment and sustainable growth. Engineers working with State Pollution Control Board can get salaries ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000. Candidates with M. Tech in environment engineering receive attractive salary ranging from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000. However, doing a research work in environmental engineering can be high paying as the professional earns a salary between Rs 50,000 and Rs 75,000.

Demand and Supply

Environmental engineering is facing shortage of trained professionals. As it is a new branch focussing on various implications of environment pollution, lack of information among candidates prevents them from entering the profession. There is a shortage of environment engineers as more and more organisations embrace environment friendly processes. Most of the engineering students go for traditional engineering disciplines and do not wish to explore the yet not explored environment engineering. However, a rapid growth in environment pollution will require environmental engineers in large numbers so that the same can be mitigated effectively.

Market Watch

Various governmental and non-governmental bodies require environmental engineers who can work for designing of environmental policy and regulation development, contaminated land management and site remediation and ensure environmental health and safety of people. Candidates with specialisation in hazardous waste management and natural resource management have higher employability as the segment is in dire need of trained professionals. Similarly, professionals exposed to risk assessment of various mega projects can get attractive jobs in various panels aimed to study environmental impact of the concerned project. 
Most of the demand in environmental engineering is coming owing to population growth, diminishing resources and risky exploitation of natural resources. Various state governments, mineral extracting companies and NGOs are looking to hire more environmental engineers so that public health problems can be solved. Moreover, more number of environmental engineers will be required to have sustainable development, environmental regulations, etc.

Positives/Negatives

Whereas environmental engineering is a promising career, there are also certain things that one has to keep in mind. Jobs in government sector are filled with the due process established by the concerned authority. Similarly, the job requires lots of analysis and study of various facets and factors before reaching onto any conclusion. 
There are also many advantages and one of them is that it is a promising career and still at a nascent stage.A lot of growth is expected in coming decades and early starters will have a certain advantage. Moreover, the job provides an opportunity to candidates to experience materialisation of conceived ideas towards green development. Environmental engineers help fellow humans by making the earth a better place.

Different Roles, Different Names

As environmental engineering is a diverse segment various segments of engineering come up with important role in it. Engineers from various disciplines have varied range of roles in environmental engineering; some of them are as follows:
•    Agricultural engineers
•    Biologists
•    Chemical engineers
•    Chemists
•    Civil engineers 
•    Ecologists 
•    Geography experts
•    Geologists
•    Hydro-geologists
•    Public health experts
•    Solid waste management professionals
•    Hazardous waste management professionals
•    Water treatment technicians
•    Wastewater treatment technicians

Top Companies

Besides various state pollution control boards formed by the governments of concerned state, Central Pollution Control Board too hires environmental engineers for various posts through exams conducted by UPSC. However, some private corporate firms hire environmental engineers for various requirements. Some of the leading recruiters in India are as follows:
•    AECOM
•    Privi Organics Limited
•    MACTEC 
•    UEM GROUP 
•    Kalpan Hydro Company
•    Goodrich Corporation
•    SPML Infra Limited
•    Brunel India Pvt Ltd
•    The Indure Private LImited
•    Sima Labs Pvt Ltd.
•    IDS Group
•    Dresser-Rand India Pvt Ltd

Top Institutes

B.Sc. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    South Gujarat University, Surat
•    University of Delhi
•    Berhampur University
•    Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
•    University of Mysore
•    University of Pune 
B.E. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    P.E.S. College of Engineering, Mandya 
•    Delhi College of Engineering, New Delhi
•    Gujarat University, L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur
ME and MTech are offered in:
•    Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya , Indore (MP)
•    UP Technical University (Instt of Engg & Tech) Lucknow
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur-577102
•    Thapar Instt of Engg & Technology, Patiala
•    IIT, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur and Madras
•    Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi

Career in Environmental engineering

Environmental engineers combine the knowledge of biology and chemistry to devise solutions to environmental problems. Concerns such as air and water pollution, recycling wastes, waste disposal and other public health issues, fall under their field. Environmental engineers study waste management of hazardous substances in order to analyze the risk, the treatment and the methods of containing such hazards. They also sketch regulations so as to prevent the occurrence of mishaps. Municipal water supply systems and industrial wastewater treatment systems are both designed by environmental engineers. They are also in charge of conducting research on proposed projects for the benefit of the environment, analyzing scientific data, and performing quality control checks.

Introduction

A drastic increase in environmental pollution across the globe has led to various research and development works in an effort to contain this menace and a relatively new discipline called environmental engineering has emerged which is providing excellent career opportunities. Environmental engineers apply combined methods of science and engineering to improve the environment so that people have access to healthy water, air and land suitable for human existence. Moreover, opportunities in environmental engineering have increased in last couple of decades and the professionals are recruited by companies working in chemical, geological, petroleum and mining sectors. 
Environmental engineers specialising in basic sciences, ecology, economics, social sciences, and radiological science as well as civil, mechanical and electrical engineers have attractive career options. A qualified professional working for an environmental engineering firm is expected to design, construct and maintain waste management systems so that urban and rural areas are kept healthy. Job of environmental engineers in India is expected to widen up as owing to tremendous economic development the country is facing high degree of environmental pollution and environmental engineers will have to check it.

Step-by-Step

Environmental engineering as a discipline is available at undergraduate level and post-graduate level as well as research level. Whereas B.Sc. in environmental science has duration of 3 years, M.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is of two years duration. A candidate with 10+2 in Physics, Chemistry and Biology can apply for B.Sc. course in Environmental Engineering. Similarly, B.Sc. in Environmental Engineering is required as eligibility criterion for M.Sc. 
Besides undergraduate and post-graduate courses, PG diploma course in Environmental Engineering is popular among candidates for it is an extensive course aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills in environment science. Students with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in 10+2 can opt for B.E in Environmental Engineering. MTech in Energy & Environment Management is another attractive option which can be exercised after doing B.E or BTech in environmental or civil engineering.

Is it the Right Career for Me?

Deciding whether or not environmental engineering is a suitable career will require you to think with passion rather than your brains, at the same time keeping your abilities in mind. If you are fervent about the environment and your surroundings with a scientific aptitude, then this is certainly the field to choose. A career in environmental engineering can be challenging as the candidate is expected to come up with revolutionary solutions for various environmental issues. However, the sector is quite attractive in terms of pay packages. Although a comparatively new career, environmental engineering is devoid of cut throat competition and candidates can get admission and jobs in various firms working in environment engineering with relatively less efforts.

What would it Cost Me?

A BTech in environmental engineering costs more than Rs 3 lakhs to candidates; the fee is inclusive of hostel and library charges. Fee is charged semester wise. Some private colleges can charge even more for the course. Similarly, MTech in environmental engineering can cost more than Rs 2 lakhs in four semesters. Various PG diploma courses in environmental engineering can be a cheap solution or substitute for MTech. Courses in government colleges and IITs and NITs are available at subsidised fees but the competition is tough.

Funding/Scholarship

Scholarships such as Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College Students in India, Indian Oil Corporation Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students, Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) Fellowship and MHRD scholarship assistantship for Post Graduate Engineering, etc are considered some of the leading scholarships in India.
Similarly, NTPC Scholarships Scheme for Engineering Students and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd (ONGC) Scholarships are offered to candidates belonging to backward classes. Various commercial banks in India offer education loans at attractive interest rate to engineering students. It is always advisable to visit a loan provider and discuss various terms and conditions before taking an education loan.

Job Prospects

Environmental engineering has immense scope in India for professionals who are qualified in chemical, biological, thermal, radioactive or even mechanical engineering as environmental engineering is a diverse field and requires people from diverse background. Moreover, professionals from process engineering, environmental chemistry, water and sewage treatment, waste reduction management, pollution prevention, etc are required in large numbers. 
Job prospects for professionals with qualification in environmental engineering are bright in research centres, NGOs and various governmental departments working towards green development. Candidates with M.Tech in environmental engineering have opportunities to work for government built assessment committees which study and analyse the environmental risks involved in certain projects. The report of such a committee is then submitted to the concerned authority for further observation. Scholars with PhD in environmental engineering can opt for teaching jobs in colleges and universities.

International Focus

International firms and supra-national bodies like UNO require candidates with qualification and exposure in environment technology for various projects. Jobs in such projects are not only high paying in terms of salaries but attractive in terms of facilities and amenities offered. The US on the other hand offers attractive salary packages for environmental engineers where median salary for an environmental engineer is 80,000$.

Pay Packet

Environmental engineers have umpteen employment opportunities with Central and State pollution control boards which work towards maintaining clean environment and sustainable growth. Engineers working with State Pollution Control Board can get salaries ranging from Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000. Candidates with M. Tech in environment engineering receive attractive salary ranging from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000. However, doing a research work in environmental engineering can be high paying as the professional earns a salary between Rs 50,000 and Rs 75,000.

Demand and Supply

Environmental engineering is facing shortage of trained professionals. As it is a new branch focussing on various implications of environment pollution, lack of information among candidates prevents them from entering the profession. There is a shortage of environment engineers as more and more organisations embrace environment friendly processes. Most of the engineering students go for traditional engineering disciplines and do not wish to explore the yet not explored environment engineering. However, a rapid growth in environment pollution will require environmental engineers in large numbers so that the same can be mitigated effectively.

Market Watch

Various governmental and non-governmental bodies require environmental engineers who can work for designing of environmental policy and regulation development, contaminated land management and site remediation and ensure environmental health and safety of people. Candidates with specialisation in hazardous waste management and natural resource management have higher employability as the segment is in dire need of trained professionals. Similarly, professionals exposed to risk assessment of various mega projects can get attractive jobs in various panels aimed to study environmental impact of the concerned project. 
Most of the demand in environmental engineering is coming owing to population growth, diminishing resources and risky exploitation of natural resources. Various state governments, mineral extracting companies and NGOs are looking to hire more environmental engineers so that public health problems can be solved. Moreover, more number of environmental engineers will be required to have sustainable development, environmental regulations, etc.

Positives/Negatives

Whereas environmental engineering is a promising career, there are also certain things that one has to keep in mind. Jobs in government sector are filled with the due process established by the concerned authority. Similarly, the job requires lots of analysis and study of various facets and factors before reaching onto any conclusion. 
There are also many advantages and one of them is that it is a promising career and still at a nascent stage.A lot of growth is expected in coming decades and early starters will have a certain advantage. Moreover, the job provides an opportunity to candidates to experience materialisation of conceived ideas towards green development. Environmental engineers help fellow humans by making the earth a better place.

Different Roles, Different Names

As environmental engineering is a diverse segment various segments of engineering come up with important role in it. Engineers from various disciplines have varied range of roles in environmental engineering; some of them are as follows:
•    Agricultural engineers
•    Biologists
•    Chemical engineers
•    Chemists
•    Civil engineers 
•    Ecologists 
•    Geography experts
•    Geologists
•    Hydro-geologists
•    Public health experts
•    Solid waste management professionals
•    Hazardous waste management professionals
•    Water treatment technicians
•    Wastewater treatment technicians

Top Companies

Besides various state pollution control boards formed by the governments of concerned state, Central Pollution Control Board too hires environmental engineers for various posts through exams conducted by UPSC. However, some private corporate firms hire environmental engineers for various requirements. Some of the leading recruiters in India are as follows:
•    AECOM
•    Privi Organics Limited
•    MACTEC 
•    UEM GROUP 
•    Kalpan Hydro Company
•    Goodrich Corporation
•    SPML Infra Limited
•    Brunel India Pvt Ltd
•    The Indure Private LImited
•    Sima Labs Pvt Ltd.
•    IDS Group
•    Dresser-Rand India Pvt Ltd

Top Institutes

B.Sc. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    South Gujarat University, Surat
•    University of Delhi
•    Berhampur University
•    Bharathiar University, Coimbatore
•    University of Mysore
•    University of Pune 
B.E. in Environment Science can be pursued from:
•    P.E.S. College of Engineering, Mandya 
•    Delhi College of Engineering, New Delhi
•    Gujarat University, L.D. College of Engineering, Ahmedabad
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur
ME and MTech are offered in:
•    Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya , Indore (MP)
•    UP Technical University (Instt of Engg & Tech) Lucknow
•    Visveswariah Technological University, AIT, Chikmagalur-577102
•    Thapar Instt of Engg & Technology, Patiala
•    IIT, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur and Madras
•    Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi