Within the next 10 years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that careers that center around environmental studies and environmental science will grow 15%, which is faster than average. An Online Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree opens students up to a huge range of environmental fields such as policy, advocacy, land use management, even humanities, and literature.
This is a particularly prudent time and opportunity to earn a degree as an environmentalist and contribute to the ever-growing need for individuals with a solid understanding of the environment, the climate, and green energy.
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Top Online Bachelor of Environmental Science and Studies Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: These Top 10 Online Environmental Studies Programs are meant for students searching for an alternative to a fixed schedule and mandatory class meetings and would rather gain the same education and earn the same degree on their own time and at their own pace.
The criteria for this list was gathered based on the availability of information on each school’s website. Onlineschoolscenter.com has chosen to list them randomly as each has its unique qualities and attributes. The following were listed according to the following points:
- Coursework designed to teach students how to become good stewards of the planet; including management of air, water, and land studies,
- 100% Online or Hybrid Availability,
- Provides training for various entry-level careers in Environmental Science related jobs,
- Focuses on the most innovative technology used today in Environmental Science and Conservation,
- Financial Aid options through Grants, Scholarships and Military Discounts,
- Positive student reviews and retention rates no lower than 50%,
- Ease of Credit Transfers.
To learn more, please see our Methodology page.
SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Program Standouts:
At Southern New Hampshire University, students gain the education and experience needed to pursue their passion for the environment with an online environmental science degree. Environmental Science majors look to repair and prevent damage caused by climate change, overpopulation, loss of biodiversity, and other crises. This unique program offers a strong foundation in natural and physical sciences with a focus on natural resources and conservation.
Campus Location: Manchester, NH
Accreditation:
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition:
- $320 per credit hour/$960 per course—undergraduate courses
- $627 per credit hour/$1,881 per course—graduate courses
Program Options and Concentrations:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (121 credits total)
- Master of Business Administration in Sustainability and Environmental Compliance (39 credits total)
- Master of Business Administration in International Sustainability and Environmental Compliance (39 credits total)
Career Opportunities:
- Renewable energy and sustainability trade associations
- Ecological advocacy organizations
- Municipal and ecological regulatory agencies
- Environmental scientist
- Environmental analyst
- Environmental protection specialist
- Environmental research scientist
- Hazardous substance scientist
Course Flexibility:
The Environmental Science programs at SNHU provide students with the flexibility to shape their degrees around individual career goals, interests, and passions. Curricula are based on solid foundations in the natural and physical sciences, so students gain the broad-based interdisciplinary skill set that companies and organizations look for to solve complex environmental and business problems. Because professors are passionate about environmental issues and bring specific expertise to the program, classes delve deeply into subjects that most interest each student.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SNHU’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
ONLINE B.S. IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Program Standouts:
With a degree from the University of Florida’s online school of environmental science, students can look forward to careers in various fields in the agricultural, environmental, and natural sciences sectors. Courses and core requirements vary in areas such as sustainable food and fiber production, environmental policy and analysis, water resources, energy resources, soil conservation, stewardship of natural resources, pollution management, and international development. Online students at the University of Florida gain a solid foundation in these numerous environmental disciplines and apply such knowledge and skill to even more career paths.
Campus Location: Gainesville, FL
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition:
- $129.18 per credit hour (adjusted to include fees)—in-state residents
- $5.25 one time—Financial Aid fee (in-state and out)
- $5.25 one time—Technology fee (in-state and out)
- $6.76 per credit hour—Capital Improvement fee (in-state and out)
- $552.62 per credit hour (adjusted to include fees)—out-of-state resident
- $35.36 over credit hour—Non-FL Resident Financial Aid fee (out-of-state)
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies in Environmental Management in Agriculture and Natural Resources (120 credits total)
- Master of Science in Soil and Water Science (30 credits total)
- Master of Science/Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering Sciences – Water Resources Planning and Management (30 credits total)
- Master of Science/Master of Engineering in Environmental Engineering Sciences – Water, Wastewater, and Storm Water Engineering (30 credits total)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Horticulture Management (15 credits total)
- Graduate Certificate in Environmental Policy Management (15 credits total)
Career Opportunities:
- Sustainable food and fiber production
- Environmental policy and analysis
- Water resources
- Energy resources
- Soil conservation
- Stewardship of natural resources
- Pollution management
- International development
- Environmental non-profits and advocacy
- Government agencies
Course Flexibility:
With a large number of degrees and certificates offered in the University of Florida’s online environmental science program, students have the opportunity to focus their academic career in an environmental discipline of their choosing, whether an individual is seeking a career in policy, advocacy, or fieldwork. The master’s programs have only one required visit to campus in order to take exams and present seminar projects. The Bachelor of Science online program has no required campus visits, neither do the certificate programs.
LEARN MORE ABOUT UF’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAM
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Program Standouts:
Liberty University Online’s environmental science program helps students master the skills necessary to succeed in today’s business environment with a special emphasis on understanding the ever-changing world of environmental sustainability. While it is a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, students will improve their knowledge and understanding of management principles and environmental resources and will possess impressive environmental business acumen upon entering a career field.
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Tuition:
- $360 per credit hour
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Green and Sustainable Management (120 credits total)
Career Opportunities:
- Construction project manager
- Parks and recreation management
- Professional consultant
- Sustainability analyst
- Environmental advocacy
- Government agencies
- Environmental non-profits and private industries
Course Flexibility:
As a Christian college, Liberty University’s online programs have a foundational faith in the mores and teachings of Christ. Coursework will prepare students to serve effectively as experts in both small business environments or in the global market, integrating faith with environmentally driven practices in a professional atmosphere. All coursework is available online and students have the freedom to complete classes and assignments at their own speed.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LU’S ONLINE ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX
ONLINE B.S. IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Program Standouts:
A degree from the University of Phoenix prepares students to meet new environmental challenges head-on. In the ever-changing world of government regulations and environmental issues, there is a strong need for professionals with an interdisciplinary education, in addition to coursework specific to environmental sciences. Whether the goal is to utilize scientific research to help governments and businesses or prepare to transition into teaching after earning a degree, this degree program can be a great step.
Campus Location: Tempe, AZ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Tuition:
- $410 per credit hour—100/200-level courses
- $435 per credit hour—300/400-level courses
- $135 per course—Electronic Materials fee
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (120 credits total)
Career Opportunities:
- Government agencies
- Environmental advocacy
- Non-profits and private industries
- Education
- Environmental scientist
- Environmental analyst
- Environmental consultant
- Engineering services
Course Flexibility:
The University of Phoenix’s online Environmental Science degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between scientific principles and the environment. Topics will include biological and ecological fundamentals, the environment and society, environmental management and law, global health, risk assessment, ethics, and technology. The program also thoroughly educates students in exercising critical thinking and decision-making skills.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PU’S ONLINE B.S. IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE PROGRAM
OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY
ECAMPUS-ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Program Standouts:
Today, scientists must be trained to assess problems and provide potential solutions from scientific perspectives when faced with environmental issues, as well as to predict environmental change and participate in responsible management of the environment. To help reach these objectives, Oregon State University’s online Environmental Science degree offers an interdisciplinary approach to environmental problem solving, interweaving many fields of environmental studies.
Campus Location: Corvallis, OR
Accreditation:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition:
- $271 per credit hour
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences (180 credits total)
This degree program offers a diverse selection of specialization areas to focus your study toward your career goals. Focus areas can be completed through an approved option, certificate or minor. Students work with an academic advisor to determine the best specialization area based on career goals. Current specialization area topics available to Ecampus students include:
- Applied ecology and resource management (option)
- Business and Entrepreneurship (minor)
- Environmental conservation and sustainability (option)
- Environmental policy (option)
- Fisheries and wildlife (minor)
- Geography (minor)
- Horticulture (minor)
- Resource economics (minor)
- Water science and resources (option)
Career Opportunities:
- Environmental consulting firms
- Government agencies
- Health and safety field (HAZMAT)
- Research labs
- Teaching in outdoor or nature centers
- Nonprofit agencies (Institute for Applied Ecology, etc.)
Course Flexibility:
With the wide variety of specialization areas in Oregon State University’s online Environmental Science program, students are free to explore and decide which sector of Environmental Science best suits their individual interests. Students work closely with academic advisors and faculty to focus their education in a very specific manner.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OSU’S ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE PROGRAM-E-Campus
AMERICAN PUBLIC UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Program Standouts:
American Public University’s online degree is for students interested in environmental policy and analysis as well as environmental management including stewardship of natural resources, pollution management, fish and wildlife management, and hazardous materials. The program requires course work in both the natural and social sciences with a particular focus on the complex relationship among science, management, and policy.
Campus Location: Charles Town, WV
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Tuition:
- $250 per credit hour
- $30,500 full tuition
Program Options and Concentrations:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (122 credit hours total)
There are 5 concentration paths through which students may earn a degree in Environmental Science, focusing their coursework in a direction that most strongly suits their career goals and interests:
- General (a well-rounded degree involving many aspects of Environmental Science)
- Sustainability
- Environmental Technology and Management
- Fish and Wildlife Management
- Regional and Community Environmental Planning
Career Options:
- Environmental technician
- Environmental economist
- Sustainability specialist
- Environmental education
- Environmental advocacy
- Non-profits and private industries
- Government agencies
- Fish and game warden
- Climate change analyst
Course Flexibility:
Whether students are interested in a general education in Environmental Science that focuses on many diverse fields of the subject, or they are interested in focusing their curriculum toward a specific topic, interest, or career path, American Public University’s online Bachelor of Environmental Science Program has an area for every environmental scientist. Although, every student will be able to exercise strong capabilities in all aspects of Environmental Studies, including history, policy, advocacy, sciences, legal, economic, and social dynamics associated with the environment and management of the environment.
LEARN MORE ABOUT APU’S ONLINE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE DEGREE PROGRAM
EVERGLADES UNIVERSITY ONLINE
ONLINE BA/BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Program Standouts:
Online environmental studies degree programs at Everglades University strongly educate students in the effectiveness of reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the lens of three specialized programs. Each includes within its curriculum a solid foundation in a wide variety of environmental fields while focusing most specifically on an individual student’s interests from renewable energy to land management to policy.
Campus Location: Boca Rotan, FL
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition:
- $50 one time—Application Fee
- $145 one time—Registration
- $800 per semester—Education Fee for Online Students
- $41,176 full tuition
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Policy and Management (123 credit hours total)
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Land and Energy Management (123 credit hours total)
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Alternative and Renewable Energy Management (123 credit hours total)
Career Opportunities:
- Environmental consultant
- Environmental policy and law
- Energy management
- Land use management
- Government agencies
- Environmental advocacy
- Non-profits and private industries
Course Flexibility:
Receiving an online degree in Environmental Studies from Everglades University prepares students to address a wide variety of climate, land use, energy, and policy issues and needs. Upon graduation, every Everglades student will have a solid foundation in many aspects of environmental studies, while also having a specialization area within which they most thrive. An online degree allows students to apply what they are learning to a current position or life path.
LEARN MORE ABOUT EU’S ONLINE ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAMS
COLUMBIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY
ONLINE BS IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Program Standouts:
The online environmental studies degrees from Columbia Southern University will provide students with a flexible, relevant, and current curriculum that will include opportunities for students who demonstrate a depth and breadth of knowledge in environmental theory and technology necessary to function at the environmental professional level in the industry. Students receive a solid foundation in environmental strategies, environmental technology, waste management, pollution prevention, and many other fields that are highly relevant to environmental management.
Campus Location: Orange Beach, AL
Accreditation:
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission
- Council for Higher Education
Tuition:
- $210 per credit hour—undergraduate courses
- $275 per credit hour—graduate courses
- $35 one time—CSU Online Library fee
Program Options:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management (120 credit hours total)
- Master of Science in Occupational Safety & Health – Environmental Management (36 credit hours total)
- Undergraduate Certificate in Environmental Management (12 credit hours total)
- Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management (12 credit hours total)
Career Opportunities:
- Environmental consultant
- Environmental safety officer
- Land use management
- Pollution prevention
- Environmental analyst
- Government agencies
- Environmental advocacy
- Non-profits and private industries
Course Flexibility:
Offering several pathways into environmental management, students have the option to climb the ladder of environmental degrees at one of the lowest-priced online academic programs in the country. These degrees give students an in-depth understanding of environmental policy, theory, safety, and techniques. Online educations allow students to exercise what they gather from their education within a current profession while continuing both a career and an education uninterrupted.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CSU’S ONLINE B.S. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DEGREE PROGRAMS
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I earn an online Bachelor of Environmental Science and Studies degree? What career choices benefit from this degree?
You can use an online bachelor’s degree in the field of environmental science in many ways. You could enter a career in marine biology, as a specialist with the Environmental Protection Agency, or as a geologist, biologist, or meteorologist. Other career choices include an anthropologist, wildlife biologist, oceanographer, paleontologist, archaeologist, or perhaps, a zoologist, among many other options.
How do I earn an online Environmental Science and Studies degree?
100% online degree programs in this field can be difficult to locate; however, hybrid programs allow students to do classwork online but required lab-based courses conducted on-campus. In fact, some online schools will allow you to complete your lab work at a community college in your area.
You’ll learn about conservation, biology, chemistry, as well as, physics, nuclear waste, acid rain, and sustainability. You will focus on ways to protect the environment, along with, how culture and politics contribute to today’s environmental issues. Concentrations may include studies focused on the ecosystem, fisheries and wildlife, the atmosphere or business, and environmental policy. You should choose an interest that you are passionate about!
How do I become an Environmental Engineer?
Environmental engineers, simply put, solve environmental issues. They strive to remedy problems related to soil and water, air pollution, climate change, waste disposal, and recycling. Environmental engineers work to provide safe and healthy conditions for the public by controlling environmental hazards.
The preferred degree for a position as an environmental engineer begins with earning your online Bachelor of Environmental Science and Studies degree. You may focus on engineering or a related degree; however, you will learn to combine your love for science and your problem-solving abilities to solve the environmental issues plaguing today’s society.
As of May 2019, the BLS states the median income for a position as an environmental engineer to be approximately $88, 860 per year. Depending on the task at hand, you may be confined to an office workspace or a construction site. The projected growth rate in this field is positive at a 3% increase between 2019 and 2029.
“The Earth is what we all have in common.”
—Wendell Berry, Novelist & Environmental Activist