Environmental engineering is an academic area of study that trains students to mitigate or remove the waste and pollution produced by manufacturing and other harmful business industries. Individuals who study environmental engineering often go on to careers in government or work for private companies, tackling issues such as recycling systems, water sanitation and waste disposal solutions.

Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.

Online or distance learning refers to the use of electronic media and information and communication technologies (ICT) in education. With online learning, one can access education at any time and from any location with an available internet connection.