How to Become an Environmental Psychologist

What is Environmental Psychology

Environmental Psychologists examine how humans interact with the natural and built environment. It is a field that focuses on the interplay between human behavior and the environment. The goal of environmental psychology is to better understand the relationship between people and their environment, and to use this knowledge to create more sustainable and livable spaces. If you are interested in pursuing a career in environmental psychology, there are several steps you can take to get started.

Environmental psychologists investigate a wide range of topics, including the design of built environments, the impact of natural environments on health and well-being, the effects of noise and pollution on cognitive functioning and stress levels, the dynamics of social interactions in public spaces, and the psychological factors that influence pro-environmental behaviors.

Some of the key concepts and principles that guide research in environmental psychology include:

• Perception and cognition: How people perceive and interpret their surroundings, how their attention and memory are influenced by the environment, and how cognitive processes affect behavior in different environments.
• Aesthetics and design: The psychological impact of different design features, such as color, lighting, spatial layout, and materials, on people’s emotional responses, mood, and behavior.
• Social and cultural influences: How social norms, cultural values, and group dynamics shape people’s environmental attitudes and behaviors, as well as how environmental design affects social interactions and communication.
• Stress and well-being: The effects of environmental stressors, such as noise, crowding, and pollution, on mental and physical health, as well as the restorative and therapeutic benefits of natural environments and green spaces.

Environmental psychology has practical applications in various fields, such as urban planning, architecture, interior design, environmental policy, and public health. By understanding the psychological processes that underlie human-environment interactions, environmental psychologists can help create more functional, sustainable, and enjoyable environments that promote well-being and enhance the quality of life.

Why Choose an Environmental Psychology Degree?

Overall, choosing an environmental psychology degree can offer a range of benefits for individuals who are interested in the intersection of human behavior and the environment. With its interdisciplinary approach, potential for meaningful work, and opportunities for innovation and personal growth, environmental psychology can be a valuable investment in one’s education and career. Here are some potential benefits of pursuing this field of study:

1. Meaningful and Rewarding Work: Environmental psychology provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives by improving their interactions with their surroundings. This field can be particularly satisfying for individuals who are passionate about promoting sustainable and healthy living environments, reducing environmental harm, and enhancing well-being.
2. Interdisciplinary Approach: Environmental psychology is an interdisciplinary field that draws on various disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, ecology, and design. Pursuing a degree in environmental psychology can provide a unique opportunity to integrate knowledge and methods from diverse fields and develop a holistic understanding of human-environment interactions.
3. Career Opportunities: An environmental psychology degree can prepare students for a wide range of career paths, such as environmental consultant, sustainability coordinator, urban planner, public health specialist, market researcher, or design consultant. Additionally, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications in related fields, such as environmental policy or public health, can expand career options and increase earning potential.
4. Research and Innovation: Environmental psychology is a relatively young field that is constantly evolving and advancing. Pursuing a degree in environmental psychology can offer opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to the development of new theories, methods, and practices in the field.
5. Personal Growth and Development: Pursuing a degree in environmental psychology can also be a journey of personal growth and development. This field often involves self-reflection, critical thinking, and problem-solving, as well as opportunities to engage with diverse perspectives and communities. Additionally, environmental psychology can offer opportunities for fieldwork, travel, and community engagement, which can broaden horizons and enhance personal skills and competencies.

What Does an Environmental Psychologist Do?

Environmental psychologists study the relationship between people and their physical and social environments. They investigate how people perceive, experience, and interact with their surroundings, as well as how the environment affects people’s behavior, attitudes, and well-being. Here are some specific tasks and responsibilities of environmental psychologists:

1. Research and Analysis: Environmental psychologists design and conduct research studies to investigate various topics related to human-environment interactions. They use a variety of research methods, such as surveys, experiments, observations, and interviews, to collect data and analyze it using statistical and qualitative techniques.
2. Consultation and Design: Environmental psychologists may work as consultants for architects, urban planners, or developers to help design buildings, neighborhoods, or public spaces that are functional, sustainable, and user-friendly. They may offer recommendations on design features such as lighting, colors, spatial layout, and signage, that can enhance people’s experiences and well-being.
3. Policy and Advocacy: Environmental psychologists may work in the public sector or nonprofit organizations to promote policies and programs that promote sustainability, reduce environmental harm, and enhance well-being. They may conduct research to inform policy decisions, design and implement public education campaigns, and advocate for environmental justice and equity.
4. Education and Training: Environmental psychologists may teach courses or lead workshops on various topics related to environmental psychology, such as environmental cognition, design psychology, and environmental behavior. They may also supervise students, interns, or research assistants and mentor them in research methods and professional development.
5. Evaluation and Assessment: Environmental psychologists may evaluate the effectiveness of environmental interventions, such as green space development, energy conservation programs, or waste reduction initiatives. They may use a variety of evaluation methods, such as surveys, focus groups, and program data analysis, to assess the impact of these interventions on the environment and people’s well-being.

Overall, environmental psychologists have a diverse range of roles and responsibilities, depending on their area of specialization, employment setting, and personal interests. However, they all share a common goal of understanding and improving the relationship between people and their environment.

Skills Needed to Become an Environmental Psychologist

To be a successful environmental psychologist, you will need a variety of skills. These include:

1. Critical thinking and problem-solving: Environmental psychologists need to be able to analyze complex data and come up with effective solutions to environmental problems.
2. Communication: Effective communication is essential in environmental psychology. You will need to be able to communicate your findings to policymakers, architects, urban planners, and other stakeholders.
3. Attention to detail: Environmental psychologists need to be detail-oriented to ensure that their research is accurate and their recommendations are precise.
4. Empathy: Environmental psychologists need to understand the needs and concerns of different groups of people to create more sustainable and livable spaces for everyone.
5. Creativity: Environmental psychologists need to be creative in their approach to solving environmental problems. They need to be able to think outside the box to come up with innovative solutions.

Career Opportunities for Environmental Psychologists

There are a variety of career opportunities available in environmental psychology. Some of the most common positions include:

1. Researcher: Environmental psychologists conduct research on the relationship between people and their environment. They analyze data and develop recommendations for policymakers, architects, urban planners, and other stakeholders.
2. Consultant: Environmental psychologists can work as consultants, providing advice to businesses and organizations on how to create more sustainable and livable spaces.
3. Educator: Environmental psychologists can teach courses on environmental psychology and related topics at colleges and universities.
4. Government: Environmental psychologists can work for government agencies at the local, state, or federal level. They can work in areas such as environmental policy, urban planning, and community development.
5. Non-profit: Environmental psychologists can work for non-profit organizations that focus on environmental issues. They can work in areas such as conservation, sustainability, and environmental justice.

What is the Salary Range for an Environmental Psychologist?

The salary range for an environmental psychologist can vary depending on several factors, such as their level of education, years of experience, area of specialization, and employment setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for psychologists, including environmental psychologists, was $80,370 as of May 2020. However, the BLS notes that the lowest 10 percent of psychologists earned less than $45,380, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $137,590.

Here are some additional factors that can influence an environmental psychologist’s salary:

1. Education: Environmental psychologists with advanced degrees, such as a Ph.D. or Psy.D., may be able to command higher salaries than those with only a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Additionally, environmental psychologists who have completed specialized training or certification in areas such as sustainability or urban planning may also be in higher demand and receive higher compensation.
2. Experience: Environmental psychologists with several years of experience in the field may be able to negotiate higher salaries, particularly if they have a track record of successful research projects or consulting engagements. Additionally, environmental psychologists who work in managerial or supervisory roles may earn higher salaries than those in entry-level positions.
3. Area of Specialization: Environmental psychologists who specialize in a particular area, such as sustainable design or environmental justice, may be in higher demand and command higher salaries than those with more general expertise. Additionally, environmental psychologists who work in certain sectors, such as government or consulting, may receive higher salaries than those in academia or nonprofit organizations.
4. Geographic Location: Environmental psychologists who work in metropolitan areas or regions with high demand for their services may receive higher salaries than those in less populated or rural areas. Additionally, cost of living differences can affect salaries, with higher salaries often found in areas with higher costs of living.

Overall, the salary range for an environmental psychologist can vary widely depending on several factors, but many environmental psychologists can expect to earn a competitive salary in a fulfilling and meaningful career.

What is the Career Outlook for Environmental Psychologists?

The career outlook for environmental psychologists is positive, with demand for their expertise expected to grow in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of psychologists overall is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. However, environmental psychologists are expected to be in greater demand due to increasing awareness of the impact of the built and natural environment on human behavior, health, and well-being.

Here are some factors that are expected to drive demand for environmental psychologists in the coming years:

1. Sustainable Design: As more individuals, businesses, and governments seek to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices, there is growing demand for environmental psychologists to help design buildings, communities, and public spaces that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and user-friendly.
2. Urbanization: With more people living in cities than ever before, there is growing interest in how the built environment affects human behavior, mental health, and social well-being. Environmental psychologists are well-suited to study these issues and offer recommendations for designing cities that promote well-being and social cohesion.
3. Environmental Justice: There is increasing recognition of the unequal distribution of environmental harms and benefits among different communities, particularly those that are historically marginalized or low-income. Environmental psychologists can contribute to this important area by studying the impact of environmental inequality on mental and physical health, and advocating for policies and practices that promote equity and justice.
4. Public Health: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of the built environment on public health, particularly in terms of access to green space, outdoor recreation, and active transportation. Environmental psychologists can play a key role in promoting public health and well-being through their expertise in environmental design, behavior change, and community engagement.

The career outlook for environmental psychologists is positive, with increasing demand for their expertise in a wide range of sectors, including government, consulting, academia, and nonprofit organizations. As more individuals and communities seek to promote sustainable, healthy, and equitable environments, environmental psychologists can help lead the way in creating positive change.

What Credentials Are Needed To Practice Environmental Psychology?

In addition to becoming a licensed psychologist, environmental psychologists may benefit from additional credentials or training in areas such as sustainability, urban planning, public health, or environmental policy. For example, individuals may choose to pursue a graduate certificate in sustainability or a master’s degree in urban planning to gain specialized knowledge and skills in these areas.

Overall, the specific credentials needed to practice environmental psychology will depend on the individual’s career goals, area of specialization, and jurisdiction of practice. However, a solid educational foundation in psychology and related fields, as well as additional training and credentials, can help individuals succeed in this dynamic and important field.

Typical Environmental Psychology Courses

Environmental psychology is an interdisciplinary field that draws from multiple areas of study, including psychology, sociology, architecture, and urban planning. As such, typical courses in environmental psychology can vary depending on the program and institution. However, here are some courses that are commonly offered in environmental psychology programs:

1. Environmental Psychology: This course provides an overview of the principles and theories of environmental psychology, with a focus on how the physical environment affects human behavior, health, and well-being. Students may study topics such as environmental stress, environmental perception, and the psychological impact of climate change.
2. Sustainable Design: This course focuses on the principles and practices of sustainable design, including energy-efficient buildings, green transportation, and eco-friendly materials. Students may explore case studies of sustainable design in action and work on projects to apply these principles in real-world settings.
3. Urban Psychology: This course examines the psychological and social factors that shape urban life, including social networks, urban sprawl, and the impact of urban design on mental health. Students may also explore topics such as urban renewal, gentrification, and community development.
4. Environmental Health: This course explores the relationship between the built and natural environment and human health. Students may study topics such as air and water quality, toxicology, and environmental epidemiology.
5. Human-Environment Interaction: This course examines the complex relationship between humans and the natural environment, with a focus on understanding the factors that influence environmental attitudes and behavior. Students may explore topics such as environmental activism, environmental ethics, and the role of culture in shaping environmental attitudes.
6. Research Methods in Environmental Psychology: This course provides an introduction to the research methods used in environmental psychology, including survey research, experimental design, and observational studies. Students may learn how to design and conduct their own research studies and analyze data using statistical methods.

Courses in environmental psychology are designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the ways in which the physical environment shapes human behavior, health, and well-being. By combining insights from psychology, sociology, and other related fields, environmental psychology courses provide a unique and valuable perspective on some of the most pressing issues facing our planet today.

What Can I Do with an Environmental Psychology Degree?

An environmental psychology degree can prepare graduates for a wide range of careers that focus on understanding the relationship between humans and the built and natural environment. Here are some examples of career paths that an individual with an environmental psychology degree might pursue:

1. Environmental Consultant: Environmental consultants work with businesses and organizations to assess and mitigate the impact of their activities on the environment. An environmental psychology degree can be particularly useful in helping consultants understand the psychological and social factors that influence environmental attitudes and behavior.
2. Sustainability Specialist: Sustainability specialists work to promote sustainable practices in a variety of settings, including businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. An environmental psychology degree can provide a strong foundation in understanding the social and psychological factors that shape sustainability practices.
3. Urban Planner: Urban planners work to design and develop communities that are functional, attractive, and sustainable. An environmental psychology degree can be particularly useful in helping urban planners understand the social and psychological factors that influence how people interact with their built environment.
4. Environmental Psychologist: Environmental psychologists work to understand how the physical environment affects human behavior, health, and well-being. They may work in research, government, or non-profit settings, conducting studies and developing interventions aimed at improving the relationship between humans and their environment.
5. Policy Analyst: Policy analysts work to develop and evaluate policies related to environmental issues, such as climate change, air and water quality, and land use. An environmental psychology degree can provide a unique perspective on how policies can be designed to take into account the psychological and social factors that influence environmental attitudes and behavior.

An environmental psychology degree can provide graduates with a diverse set of skills and knowledge that can be applied in a variety of settings. Whether working in business, government, or non-profit organizations, individuals with an environmental psychology degree can make a significant contribution to promoting sustainable practices and improving the relationship between humans and their environment.

What is the Job Outlook for Environmental Psychologist?

The job outlook for environmental psychologists is positive, as there is growing awareness of the impact of the built and natural environment on human behavior, health, and well-being. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for psychologists in general is expected to grow by 3% from 2020 to 2030, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Environmental psychologists can find employment in a variety of settings, including academia, government, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms. In academia, environmental psychologists may teach and conduct research on topics related to the impact of the built and natural environment on human behavior and well-being. In government and non-profit organizations, environmental psychologists may work on policy development, program evaluation, and advocacy related to environmental issues. In consulting firms, environmental psychologists may work with businesses and organizations to develop sustainable practices and promote environmentally responsible behavior.

As the importance of sustainable practices and environmental awareness continues to grow, there will likely be an increasing demand for professionals with expertise in environmental psychology. However, competition for jobs in this field may be strong, and individuals with advanced degrees and specialized skills may have an advantage in the job market. It is also worth noting that salaries in this field can vary widely depending on the specific job and geographic location.

Organizations and Societies for Environmental Psychologists

Here are some organizations and societies that are related to environmental psychology:

1. Environmental Psychology Division (Division 34) of the American Psychological Association (APA) – This is a division of the APA that is dedicated to advancing research and practice in environmental psychology.
2. International Association for People-Environment Studies (IAPS) – This is an interdisciplinary organization that brings together researchers and practitioners from different fields to study the relationship between people and their environment.
3. Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA) – This is an interdisciplinary organization that focuses on promoting research, education, and practice in environmental design.
4. Society for Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD) – This is a global community of designers, architects, and environmental graphic design professionals who are committed to creating meaningful experiences through environmental design.
5. Association for Psychological Science (APS) – This is an international organization that promotes the advancement of psychological science in research, teaching, and application.
6. The Society for Human Ecology (SHE) – This is an interdisciplinary professional organization that promotes the study of human ecology, which encompasses the relationships between humans and their natural, social, and built environments.
7. The Center for Health Design – This organization is dedicated to promoting research and education in the design of healthcare environments, including the impact of the physical environment on patient outcomes.
8. The Human-Environment Research Laboratory (HERL) – This is a research center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign that conducts research on the relationship between people and their environment, with a particular focus on the design of indoor and outdoor environments.
9. The Environmental Psychology Research Group (EPRG) – This is a research group at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands that focuses on the study of environmental psychology, including the impact of the physical environment on human behavior and well-being.
10. The International Society of Biourbanism (ISB) – This interdisciplinary organization is dedicated to promoting research and education on the relationship between urban design, architecture, and human health and well-being.

Find additional psychology organizations and societies.