The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is a nationally recognized and award-winning agency with the mission to enhance the quality of life in our community by protecting and improving Montgomery Countys air, water, and land in a sustainable, innovative, inclusive, and industry-leading way while fostering smart growth, a thriving more sustainable economy and healthy communities. Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelors degree in an appropriate planning specialization or related field such as environmental studies, environmental science, environmental policy, planning, engineering, public administration, public policy, economics, political science, or related field.