What is Environmental Law?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Jul 29, 2025 09:47 IST
Akansha Bisht

Akansha BishtSenior Executive

The Environmental Law course encompasses a specialized legal field dedicated to protecting the environment and regulating human activities that could cause harm. It's primarily offered as a postgraduate program (LLM - Master of Laws) specializing in Environmental Law, though some universities provide diploma courses in this area. 

Environmental Law Course Details: Highlights

Interested candidates can see the following table highlighting key points of the Environmental Law courses:

Particulars Course Details
Environmental Law Course Level PG, PG Diploma, and PhD.
Environmental Law Course Duration PG: 1 - 2 Years, PhD: 3 - 5 Years, PG Diploma: 1 - 2 Years
Environmental Law Admission Criteria Merit and Entrance Exam-based
Environmental Law Eligibility Criteria

PG/PG Diploma: A 3-year LLB or a 5-year integrated LLB.

PhD: LLM from a UGC-approved university.

Environmental Law Entrance Exams CLAT, CUET-PG, ULSAT, etc.
Top Environmental Law Colleges NLSIU Bangalore, NLU Assam, Amity Kolkata, Galgotias University, UPES, Mewar University, TNDALU, etc.
Environmental Law Course Fees LLM: INR 16,000 - INR 5 Lakh
Environmental Law Jobs Environmental lawyer, Legal counsel, Policy advisor, Compliance officer, and Researcher. 
Top Environmental Law Recruiters J Sagar Associates (JSA), Lakshmikumaran & Sridharan, Khaitan & Co, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, Trilegal India, Desai & Diwanji, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), etc.
Environmental Law Salary INR 5 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

Environmental Law Course relevant links: 

How to fill CLAT application form 2026

 

Q:   Who should pursue an Environmental Law course in India?
A:

An Environmental Lawyer may work on different projects relating to sustainability, renewable energy, and climate change. Therefore, candidates who are aware about the environmental laws and policies and possess critical and analytical skills can pursue this course.

Candidates must have the affinity to work with government agencies and NGOs working in the Environmental protection space. Such students are encouraged to pursue Environmental Law.

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Q:   What is the purpose of Environmental Law?
A:

The main purpose of Environmental Law is to help protect the environment as well as human health. These laws help the future generations to save the environment and natural heritage. Since these laws are enforced by the government through Acts and other rules, the government has delegated the power to the concerned authorities to impose fines for violation of law and issue licenses with respect to environmental activities. 

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Table of content
  • Environmental Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process
  • Top Environmental Law Entrance Exams 2025
  • Types of Environmental Law Courses
  • Environmental Law Course Syllabus
  • Best Environmental Law Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Environmental Law Colleges in India
  • Environmental Law Salary, Job Profiles, Career Scope & Top Recruiters
  • Environmental Law Course FAQs
  • Popular Environmental Law UG Courses
  • Popular Environmental Law PG Courses
View More

Environmental Law Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

The Environmental Law courses eligibility criteria differ from one programme to another. The eligibility criteria might also vary from one law school to another. However, given below are the basic course-wise eligibility criteria that are applicable for admission in a majority of law colleges in India:

Course Level Eligibility Criteria
LLM or PG Diploma
  • A 3-year-long degree in LLB or a 5-year-long integrated LLB degree (BA LLB, BSc LLB, BCom LLB, BBA LLB, etc.),
  • With a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a recognized university.
PhD
  • A degree in LLM, preferably an LLM in Environmental Law,
  • With a minimum of 50% aggregate score from a UGC-approved university.

Don't miss these on Environmental Law Courses in India:

CLAT Reservation Criteria 2026 - NLUs Seats Intake, NRI Reservation Policy & Criteria

CLAT Eligibility 2026: Age Limit, Qualification for LLB & LLM, Minimum Marks

Environmental Law Course Admission Process 2025

The admission process for Environmental Law courses differs depending on the course level and type. Environmental Law programs are mainly offered at the PG, Doctorate, and PG Diploma levels; hence, the steps taken in the admission process are different for every course. 

However, for candidates' reference, here's a step-by-step guide for the LLM in Environmental Law admission process:

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

The first is to check the exact eligibility criteria for the desired college or exam and ensure their fulfillment.

APPLICATION

The next step is to register on the exam's official website and use the login credentials to fill out the application form. This also includes uploading documents and paying the application fee.

ENTRANCE EXAMS

Now, the candidates have to prepare and appear for the exams.

AWAIT RESULTS

Once the results are out, candidates can opt for a college based on their rank/score.

PERSONAL INTERVIEW

Many LLM colleges in India conduct a personal interview round for admission.

COUNSELLING SESSION

Counselling sessions are an important part of the admission process, where colleges generally require candidates to showcase their Statement of Purpose or Letters of Recommendation in some colleges.

 

Q:   What is the duration of Environmental Law courses?
A:

The duration of Environmental Law courses depends on the type of programme you pursue. While Environmental Law certificate courses are usually of two-six months, the duration of diploma programmes typically ranges from one-two year. On the other hand, the Environmental Law degree course duration can range from one-five years, depending on the type of degree (UG or PG) you are pursuing.

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Q:   Which documents are required during LLM in Environmental Law application process?
A:

Here are some important documents you must carry during LLM in Environmental Law application process:

  • An LLB degree
  • Migration Certificate.
  • Certificate of Practice (COP)
  • Valid photo ID proof (Adhaar, PAN Card, Passport, etc.)
  • Passport-sized photographs

However, check the official website of the college for accurate documents details.

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Top Environmental Law Entrance Exams 2025

Admission to Environmental Law courses is based on both merit and the entrance exam process. While some colleges accept national-level exam scores, some conduct their university-level exams. Here are some top Law entrance exams conducted for Environmental Law courses in India:

Entrance Exams

Exam Dates

Exam Schedule

CUET PG 2026 March - April 2026 (Tentative) CUET PG Exam Date 2026
CLAT 2026 December 7, 2025 CLAT Exam Date 2026
ULSAT 2025 Will be notified ULSAT Exam Date 2025

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Environmental Law course outline:

CLAT 2026 Official website: Important Information, Check CLAT Consortium Official Site

How to get a good rank in CLAT 2026? Prepare like a topper - Read here

 

11 Sep ' 25 - 27 Sep ' 25

TS PGLCET Phase 2 Counselling

To Be Notified:

Commencement of Classes

29 Sep ' 25 - 28 Oct ' 25

AIBE 20 Registration Date 2025

29 Oct ' 25

AIBE 20 Application Fee Payment 2025

15 Sep ' 25 - 25 Sep ' 25

MH CET Law 2025 Institute Level Round (3-year LLB)

13 Sep ' 25 - 22 Sep ' 25

MH CET Law 2025 Institute Level Round (5-year LLB)

1 Aug ' 25 - 31 Oct ' 25

CLAT 2026 online registrations

To Be Notified:

CLAT 2026 Application Correction Window

Q:   Are there any entrance exams for Environmental Law courses?
A:

Here are some of the common entrance exams for law programs in India:

  • CLAT (Common Law Admission Test): National-level exam for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs at National Law Universities (NLUs) and other participating institutions.
  • LSAT India: National-level exam for admission to law programs at various law schools across India.
  • State-Level Law Entrance Exams: Many states conduct their own law entrance exams for admission to government and private law colleges within the state.

While there may not be a separate entrance exam solely for environmental law, these general law entrance exams will qualify you for admission to law programs where you can then take courses related to environmental law.

Q:   Are there any state-level entrance exams for Environmental Law courses?
A:

Yes, many states conduct their own entrance exams for admission to law programs in general. These exams can also serve as a gateway for pursuing specializations like Environmental Law within those programs.

  • MH CET Law (Maharashtra)

  • AP LAWCET (Andhra Pradesh)

  • TS LAWCET (Telangana)

Types of Environmental Law Courses

Environmental Law courses are mainly offered at the PG, PhD, and PG Diploma levels. The course curriculum, duration, fee structure, career prospects, etc., can differ for every course level. Hence, the following table offers an overview of various Environmental Law course levels, along with course and fee details:

Course Level Top Environmental Law Colleges Environmental Law Course Fees
LLM in Environmental Law NLU Assam INR 55,000
Amity University Kolkata INR 60,000
Galgotias University INR 65,000
School of Law, UPES INR 2.93 Lakh
Mewar University INR 1.06 Lakh
PG Diploma in Environmental Law NLSIU Bangalore INR 24,800
IGNOU INR 7,000
Oriental University INR 23,000
Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University INR 300
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hindi Vishwavidyalaya INR 17,750
PhD in Environmental Law KR Mangalam University INR 3.6 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Suggested links for Environmental Law courses in India:

CLAT UG Vs CLAT PG: Key Differences in Exam Pattern, Syllabus, and Other Important Details

CLAT 2026 Dress Code For Male & Female Candidates

 

Q:   Is a PG Diploma in Environmental Law worth pursuing?
A:

If you're comparing a PG Diploma with an LLM degree, there's a huge difference, but a PG Diploma in Environmental Law is a good option to get specialised knowledge and skills in this area of study. It'll get you industry-ready without having to pursue a full-fledged PG-degree program.

Admission to the PG Diploma in Environmental Law course is also based on the merit system; hence, the candidates are not required to sit in an entrance exam.

Q:   Am I eligible for a PhD in Environmental Law after a PG Diploma?
A:

A PG Diploma programme would not be enough to pursue a PhD in Environmental Law. The basic eligibility for a PhD programme is to have a PG degree from a UGC-approved university. Though, some universities can accept a PG Diploma if it is recognised by AIU and you meet the minimum marks and other criteria.

Environmental Law Course Syllabus

The syllabus and subjects for Environmental Law courses can vary depending on the course levels and types. However, for candidates' reference, here's the Environmental Law syllabus overview for different course levels.

LLM in Environmental Law Syllabus

An LLM in Environmental Law is a 1 or 2-year-long postgraduate Law degree course. Here's a general overview of the 2-year-long LLM in Environmental Law course syllabus followed in India:

LLM Environmental Law Subjects Semester I
Jurisprudence - I Indian Constitutional Law - I
Human Rights-I Legal Research & Teaching Aptitude
LLM Environmental Law Subjects Semester II
Jurisprudence - II Indian Constitutional Law - II
Human Rights - II Law and Social Transformation
LLM Environmental Law Subjects Semester III
Principles of Environmental Law - I Principles of Environmental Law - II
LLM Environmental Law Subjects Semester IV
Environmental Statute Law - I Environmental Statute Law - II

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

PG Diploma in Environmental Law Syllabus

A PG Diploma program in Environmental Law is pursued after graduation. The duration of this course can be anywhere from 1 year to 2 years. So, here's a general overview of the 1-year-long PG Diploma in Environmental Law course syllabus followed in India:

PG Diploma in Environmental Law Subjects Semester I
Overview of Environment & Law  Introduction to Environmental Law 
Overview of International Environmental Laws Major International Environmental Laws 
Introduction to Environment and IPR Biodiversity Related Conventions
International Environmental Organizations and Dispute Settlement -
PG Diploma in Environmental Law Subjects Semester II
Introduction to National Environmental Laws Law and Policy Frameworks related to Forest and Wildlife 
Tenure And Property Rights Environmental Impact & Policy
Environment Management Judicial Trends & Public Interest Initiatives 
Tribunals & Committees  -

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

 

Q:   Can I apply for a Diploma in environmental law after completing class 12th?
A:

No, you cannot simply apply for a Diploma in Environmental Law right after completing class 12th standard, unless you have completed a bachelor’s degree in law. Since most Diploma programs in Environmental Law are PG level, so this implies that they only accept students who have completed high school education and possess a bachelor’s degree qualification.

Q:   Do I need a background in environmental Science to apply for Environmental Law courses?
A:

No, a background in environmental Science is not mandatory. However, having an interest or prior knowledge in environmental issues can be beneficial.

Q:   Can I pursue Environmental Law through distance or online education?
A:

Yes, you can pursue an Environmental Law course in part-time mode or through distance education or in online mode. Many reputed open universities such as IGNOU offers Diploma and post graduate Diploma courses in the field of Environmental Law. Some other courses are offered by:

  • Coursera
  • Udemy
  • EdX
  • Alison

Best Environmental Law Colleges in India

There are around 27 Environmental Law colleges in India, offering Environmental Law courses at various levels, including PG, Diploma, and PhD. These colleges include both government and private entities. Interested candidates can see the following tables for some top government and private Environmental Law college options in India.

Best Government Environmental Law Colleges

Around 10 government Law colleges in India offer Environmental Law courses at various levels. Candidates can see the following table for more top options:

Best Government Colleges Tuition Fee
Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati University INR 300
IGNOU - Indira Gandhi National Open University INR 7,000
Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University INR 16,000
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hindi Vishwavidyalaya INR 17,750
NLSIU Bangalore INR 24,800
Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University [TNDALU] INR 40,000
NLU Assam INR 55,000
Tamil Nadu National Law University INR 55,000

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Environmental Law course suggested links:

Law Colleges in India 2025: Courses, Fees, Admissions, Cutoff, Placements

Best LLM Colleges in India 2025

Best Private Environmental Law Colleges

Around 15 private Law colleges in India offer Environmental Law courses at various levels. Candidates can see the following table for more top options:

Best Private Colleges Tuition Fee
Amity University, Kolkata INR 60,000
Galgotias University INR 65,000
Mewar University INR 1.06 Lakh
Amity University, Noida INR 1.3 Lakh
School of Law, UPES INR 2.93 Lakh - 22.2 Lakh
Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University INR 3.5 Lakh

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

 

24.8 K

#1 NIRF

65 K

#36 NIRF

60 K

#39 NIRF

1.3 L

Environmental Law Applications open. Apply Now

1.06 L

#57 India Today

2.93 L - 22.25 L
4.5 LPA

#16 The Week

Q:   Which Environmental Law college in India offers the best placement options?
A:

Here are some top Environmental Law college options in India offering great placement opportunities:

Environmental Law collegesAverage Package Offered
Gujarat UniversityINR 8.75 LPA
Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University [TNDALU]INR 7.1 LPA
School of Law, UPESINR 4.5 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Q:   How many Environmental Law colleges are there in India?
A:

Hi, there are 25+ best Environmental Law colleges in India of which 10+ colleges are owned privately and 10 colleges are owned by the governmentCLAT, CUET PG, ULSAT and CUET are the top entrance exams for admission to best colleges for Environmental Law in India. Students can pursue LLM, LLB, BA LLB (Hons), MBA, etc., in Environmental Law courses in India. NLSIU Bangalore, NLU Assam, Amity University Kolkata, Amity University Noida, K.R. Mangalam University, School of Law UPES and Jindal Global Law School are the top Law colleges in India offering Environmental Law courses.

Q:   What are the top Environmental Law colleges in India?
A:

Hi, please refer to the table below for the top ranked Environmental Law colleges in India according to NIRF ranking 2024 under the Law category with their previous years' rankings:

College Name

NIRF 2022

NIRF 2023

NIRF 2024

NLSIU Bangalore Ranking

1

1

School of Law UPES Ranking

21

NA

21

NLU Assam Ranking

24

28

27

Amity University Kolkata Ranking

NA

39

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official website of the ranking body listed and may vary.

Popular Private Environmental Law Colleges in India

1.07 L
3.6 L

#18 The Week

65 K

#36 NIRF

24.8 K

#1 NIRF

60 K

#39 NIRF

1.3 L

Environmental Law Applications open. Apply Now

Environmental Law Salary, Job Profiles, Career Scope & Top Recruiters

Environmental Law is increasingly becoming an important law specialisation as saving and preserving the environment is becoming the need of the hour.  Some of the popular job profiles for Environmental Law candidates include:

Job Profiles Average Salary
Environmental Lawyers INR 5 LPA
Environmental Policy Analysts INR 5.7 LPA
Environmental Compliance Officers INR 16 LPA
Sustainability Consultants INR 12.6 LPA
Environmental Journalists INR 5.7 LPA
Environmental NGO Lawyers INR 4 LPA
Corporate Environmental Managers INR 14.8 LPA
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Consultants INR 8.5 LPA

Note: The above salary has been taken from external sources and hence may vary.

Top picks on Environmental Law degree:

Career after LLB - Scope, Job Opportunities, Salary Packages, Legal Firms

Types of Job Profiles in Law, Govt. Sector Legal Jobs, Salary

Environmental Law Top Recruiters

Candidates with an Environmental Law degree or diploma can work in both the public and private sectors. Those interested can also practice on their own or pursue a PhD in Environmental Law. Law graduates must qualify AIBE exam to practice in a court of law in India. The candidates can work at places such as:

Environmental Law Recruiters

Ministry of Environment

State/Central Pollution Control Boards

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

J Sagar Associates

Corporates

NGOs Universities and Colleges

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary.

 

Q:   How much does an Environmental Lawyer earn in India?
A:

The average annual salary of an Environmental Lawyer in India is INR 11.85 lakh. In addition, most Environmental Lawyers also earn an average bonus of INR 64,000 per year. However, varies with experience and work. The mid-level salary ranges from INR 8-11 LPA whereas the senior-level salary ranges from INR 12-15 LPA. Major factor governing salary structure is location of the company as well as work experience of the candidate.

Q:   What are the career options after Environmental Law?
A:

After getting an environmental law degree, you'll have a diverse range of career options to explore. Here are some of the career paths you can choose to pursue a career ahead:

Career PathSalary Range (LPA)
Litigation Attorney (Environmental Law Firm)INR 5 - 20+
Government AttorneyINR 8 - 18
Policy Analyst (NGO)INR 4 - 12
Environmental ConsultantINR 5 - 15
In-House Counsel (Corporation)INR 7 - 20+
Law Professor (Environmental Law)INR 8 - 20+
Environmental Law ResearcherINR 5 - 12

Environmental Law Course FAQs

Refer to this section for the Environmental Law Course FAQs.

Q:   Can I not pursue an Environmental course at the LLB level?
A:

No, LLB programs are base level UG courses in the field of Law. You'll get the foundational knowledge of every Law specialisation at the LLB level but you cannot pursue LLB with a specific specialization. However, you can choose a specialisation at the PG level, i.e., LLM.

Q:   Which is the best course to learn about the Environmental Law?
A:

In my opinion, LLM in Environmental Law and a PG Diploma in Environmental Law are the best options if you really want to learn about Environmental Law. They will offer you with the in-depth knowledge around the Indian and foreign Environmental Laws.

Q:   Do short-term certificate courses in Environmental Law actually add value?
A:

I think short-term certification courses are not available in India, and a few institutes offer some programs that have minimal relevance in the industry. However, if you really want to pursue a short-term course in Environmental Law, you can either opt for a PG Diploma or a 1-year LLM course in Environmental Law.

Popular Environmental Law UG Courses

Following are the most popular Environmental Law UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Environmental Law PG Courses

Following are the most popular Environmental Law PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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Answered 2 months ago

I think short-term certification courses are not available in India, and a few institutes offer some programs that have minimal relevance in the industry. However, if you really want to pursue a short-term course in Environmental Law, you can either opt for a PG Diploma or a 1-year LLM course in Env

...Read more

R

Rashmi Srivastava

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 months ago

In my opinion, LLM in Environmental Law and a PG Diploma in Environmental Law are the best options if you really want to learn about Environmental Law. They will offer you with the in-depth knowledge around the Indian and foreign Environmental Laws.

A

Akansha Bisht

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

No, LLB programs are base level UG courses in the field of Law. You'll get the foundational knowledge of every Law specialisation at the LLB level but you cannot pursue LLB with a specific specialization. However, you can choose a specialisation at the PG level, i.e., LLM.

L

Lalit Rastogi

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

A PG Diploma programme would not be enough to pursue a PhD in Environmental Law. The basic eligibility for a PhD programme is to have a PG degree from a UGC-approved university. Though, some universities can accept a PG Diploma if it is recognised by AIU and you meet the minimum marks and other crit

...Read more

G

Gunjan Dhawan

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

If you're comparing a PG Diploma with an LLM degree, there's a huge difference, but a PG Diploma in Environmental Law is a good option to get specialised knowledge and skills in this area of study. It'll get you industry-ready without having to pursue a full-fledged PG-degree program.

Admission to th

...Read more

M

Mohit Datta

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Here are some important documents you must carry during LLM in Environmental Law application process:

  • An LLB degree
  • Migration Certificate.
  • Certificate of Practice (COP)
  • Valid photo ID proof (Adhaar, PAN Card, Passport, etc.)
  • Passport-sized photographs

However, check the official website of the college for

...Read more

S

Sreetama Shrivastava

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Here are some top Environmental Law college options in India offering great placement opportunities:

Environmental Law collegesAverage Package Offered
Gujarat UniversityINR 8.75 LPA
Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University [TNDALU]INR 7.1 LPA
School of Law, UPESINR 4.5 LPA

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

S

Shikha Arora

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

An Environmental Lawyer may work on different projects relating to sustainability, renewable energy, and climate change. Therefore, candidates who are aware about the environmental laws and policies and possess critical and analytical skills can pursue this course.

Candidates must have the affinity t

...Read more

N

Nikita Chauhan

Contributor-Level 9