Search for schools that offer a four-year bachelor's degree program in environmental management. Note that some colleges offer this degree program online, which can help you balance your schoolwork with other personal commitments as long as you have access to a computer with high-speed Internet.
Apply to the environmental management degree program of your choice. Submit a copy of your high school diploma or GED and transcripts, as well as transcripts of any college courses you have taken. In addition, submit scores from standardized tests such as the American College Test or the Scholastic Aptitude Test.
Take classes from a wide range of disciplines, including accounting, government budget planning and introduction to air quality. Also, complete courses in theories of water management, land use, ecology, statistics, environmental management global issues, environmental health and environmental chemistry. Study concepts such as resource utilization and sustainability, as well as the process of crafting environmental laws and policies. In addition, learn about the standards of the international environmental management system, as well as ecosystems management at schools such as the University of Maryland University College.
Complete an internship, which will give you hands-on experience in the environmental management field. Get practice with carrying out environmental audits, promoting environmental awareness at an organization, developing environmental action plans, writing environmental reports and participating in environmental research. Also, master digital mapping computer applications as well as the use of geographic information and positioning systems.
Consider completing a two-year master's degree in environmental management at schools such as the University of Denver. This will allow you to focus on a specialty area in the field, including quality management or sustainability development, and make you more marketable to employers. Be prepared to complete a research thesis or project on a specific aspect of environmental management as part of your graduate degree program.