Top Colleges in Pune 2025: Symbiosis International University Complete Guide (Last Date, Cutoff, Placements, Ranking, Process, Criteria, Syllabus)

PhD in Environmental Science, also known as Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science, is a three-year doctoral degree that studies the environment from a chemical, biological, and physical perspective. This is also regarded as a more advanced study of energy conservation, pollution, climate change, biodiversity, the plastic menance and global warming because it combines social science and natural science.

In Indian institutions, the annual average fee charged for a three-year course ranges between INR 1,000 and 2 lakh, and the annual average salary graduates can make after completing the course ranges between INR 4 and 10 lakh, which may improve with experience and skill.

PhD in Environmental Science Highlights

What is PhD in Environmental Science all about?
The PhD in Environmental Science is an excellent research program for those seeking to advance their knowledge and experience in areas critical to make a significant difference in our fight against elements causing harm to the earth's environment.

• Candidates can make changes to documentation, policy, teaching, or technology, furthering the area of environmental science through research.
• Environmental science is a broad field, and candidates must choose an area of concentration based on their expertise and interests. A few of them choose topics such as sustainable development, energy conservation, conservation science, forestry management, ecosystems, marine biology, remote sensing, botany, and so on. 
• This PhD program begins with the submission of a research proposal to the individual university. Once authorized and admitted through the selection process, students will attend high-level lectures on issues relevant to their research area.
• The seminars mix teaching with some original research conducted by the candidates. They must create a dissertation based on their study and defend it in front of the dissertation committee via viva-voce.
• The research and teaching focus on current environmental challenges such as air and water pollution, global warming, soil erosion, deforestation, desertification, melting polar caps, and dwindling glacial ice cover.

Why pursue a PhD in Environmental Science?

• Environmental studies prepare students for employment in academia, government, business, and non-profit organizations by teaching them to think critically, creatively, and comprehensively about environmental challenges.
• After completing the doctoral course, students will understand how natural and engineered environmental systems work, as well as what can be done to protect and improve them.
• They might work in educational institutions as instructors and lecturers at schools and universities. To become a permanent lecturer, individuals must obtain a NET pass certificate and follow other UGC rules.
• Candidates who complete their PhD degree can become the most skilled in their field of specialization. Working professionals can choose a part-time program.
• However, a full-time arrangement is advantageous because it allows you to connect with instructors on a regular basis and access campus facilities such as laboratories and libraries.

PhD in Environmental Science Admissions Process
Most colleges that offer PhD in Environmental Science enroll candidates based on their graduate degree level examination scores. However, some institutes administer entrance exams to assess a candidate's talents and skill sets.

The following are the two major channels through which PhD in Environmental Science admissions occur: 

Merit-Based Admission: Most private colleges that offer PhD in Environmental Science courses admit candidates based on their master's or graduate degree grades. Aside from that, these universities may conduct a personal interview or a written test to better understand the candidate's skills.
Entrance Exam Based: Top PhD Colleges such as Symbiosis International University, Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal University, Amity University, and others offer admission to the PhD in Environmental Science program through entrance examinations that typically include MCQ-based questions about environmental topics, allowing the college to screen deserving candidates for admission.

PhD in Environmental Science Eligibility
The common PhD in Environmental Science eligibility criteria for successful admission to a college offering this course are as follows:

1. Master's degree from a recognized university or institution with at least 55% or equivalent grade.
2. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)/Differently Abled and other categories will be granted a 5% relaxation in accordance with the decision of the UGC and the Government of India.
3. However, a candidate who has passed the GATE/CSIR-UGC/JRF/NET/SLET in the relevant topic is excused from taking the Entrance Test.
4. Candidates with M.Phil degrees from UGC-accredited universities are also exempted from entrance exams. 

How Do I Prepare for a PhD in Environmental Science Entrance Exam?
The syllabus for PhD in Environmental Science admission exams will differ by college. However, the majority of exams focus on knowledge and skills relevant to environmental issues.

• Students should be aware of the whole syllabus of the entrance exam they will be taking, as some of these exams are only dependent on environmental knowledge.
• Candidates should consider purchasing study materials or previous year's PhD entrance test question papers and practicing them for PhD in Environmental Science entrance exams to ensure they are well prepared.
• Environmental Science course books are also useful study materials for these tests. 

How can I get into a decent PhD in Environmental Science Symbiosis International University?
To acquire admission to topPhD in Environmental Science college, keep the following points in mind:

• Colleges shortlist students through admission examinations, which are followed by interviews.
• To get into a good PhD college, Symbiosis International University,  the best way is to take the CSIR-NET and UGC-NET tests. GATE is also required for some colleges.
• A few private institutes offer the course, and students are admitted based on their performance in a relevant admission exam, followed by a round of personal interviews. 

PhD in Environmental Science Syllabus
Although the PhD in Environmental Science course curriculum varies every college, it generally comprises of a few common core courses that students can choose based on their interests.

Paper 1 (Compulsory Paper)

Research Methodology

Bio- remediation & Ecological Agriculture

Environmental Microbiology

Microbial Ecology

Microbial Enzymes and Bioremediation

Waste Management and Energy Generation Technologies

Paper 2: One Optional Paper

Energy Generation from Waste

Environmental Impact Assessment and Air Pollution 

Water Resources – Management and Modeling Techniques

Wastewater and Solid Waste Treatment Technologies

Plant Microbe Interaction for Sustainable Agriculture

Paper ESP

Presentation and Review of Literature

Paper ESP

Presentation of Synopsis 

PhD in Environmental Science Future Scope
The PhD in Environmental Science allows students to learn about a variety of approaches to protect the environment through the responsible use of resources.

• It provides several work prospects for environmental scientists, biologists, engineers, modelers, and journalists.
• Fertilizer companies, mines, the textile and dyeing industry, food processing units, and other organizations hire environmental experts.
• Potential environmental scientists have the opportunity to work in the research sector for the government or non-profit organizations.
• students can pursue careers in management, consultancy and scientific research.
• After earning a higher degree in environmental science such as an MSc, M.Tech and PhD, you can work independently or for a consultancy.
• Almost every university and government research institution has an environment department.

FAQs

Que Ques. Is there a demand for PhD in Environmental Science graduates?

Ans. Yes, PhD in Environmental Science graduates are in high demand today and will continue to be so in the future. Our environment is polluted and degraded as a result of human development. It is becoming increasingly vital to maintain correct standards and implement appropriate controls. As a result, environmental science research is in great demand in order to protect our planet.

Que How long does it take to complete a PhD in Environmental Science?
A student should complete all courses, qualifications, and proposals within 3.5 years of enrolling in the program. The Comprehensive Exam and Proposal are different entities.

Que What is the scope of a PhD in Environmental Science?
Environmental Sciences can lead to a successful career as an environmental consultant, environmental education officer, environmental engineer, marine biologist, sustainability consultant, water quality scientist, and a variety of other roles.