Best Online Environmental Science Degree Programs for 2025
Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
As climate change and pollution become bigger concerns across the globe, more incoming college students are seeking career paths that allow them to contribute to promoting sustainability and creating a greener world. An online degree in environmental science is one such path where graduates will be able to work in a profession where they can pursue not only their passion but also jobs that are financially rewarding.
This guide is for those who are considering an environmental science degree and career. I included some of the best online degree programs to prepare you for in-demand roles in the industry, as well as insight into trends and expectations for this interesting and growing profession.
What are the benefits of getting an online Environmental Science degree?
- An online Environmental Science degree can lead to jobs such as environmental consultant, sustainability specialist, conservation scientist, hydrologist, and environmental health and safety (EHS) officer in industries like government, nonprofits, and private corporations.
- According to 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with an Environmental Science degree earn a median salary of almost $79,000 per year, with higher earning potential in specialized roles like environmental engineers and policy analysts.
- Earning this degree online can make education more accessible and affordable since students can balance work, family, and studies, access courses from anywhere, and often reduce costs compared to traditional on-campus programs.
What can I expect from an online Environmental Science degree?
An online Environmental Science degree provides a comprehensive understanding of ecological systems, sustainability, and environmental policy while offering the flexibility to study from anywhere.
- Expect to delve into interdisciplinary studies encompassing biology, chemistry, geology, and ecology.
- Courses are often supplemented by virtual labs and fieldwork in their local communities.
- Students explore topics like ecosystem dynamics, environmental sustainability, and the interactions between living organisms and their surroundings.
- Many programs also incorporate hands-on learning through research projects, case studies, and internships.
- The degree aims to equip you with the knowledge to assess environmental issues, propose solutions, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Where can I work with an online Environmental Science degree?
The versatility of an online Environmental Science degree allows graduates to pursue careers that align with their interests and skills across diverse sectors and industries, including government agencies, private companies, nonprofits, and research institutions.
Many find positions in federal and state environmental agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Park Service, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and Department of Energy (DOE). These roles often focus on environmental protection, policy development, and conservation efforts. Others work for municipal governments and local environmental organizations, managing sustainability initiatives, waste management programs, and urban planning projects.
In the private sector, graduates can work for environmental consulting firms, energy companies, and corporations with sustainability departments. Many industries, including renewable energy, agriculture, and manufacturing, hire environmental scientists to ensure compliance with regulations and improve sustainability practices. Nonprofit organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and The Nature Conservancy offer roles in advocacy, education, and conservation research.
How much can I make with an online Environmental Science degree?
The earning potential for graduates with an online Environmental Science degree varies based on factors like experience, location, industry, and specific job title. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for environmental scientists and specialists was $86,710 as of May 2023. The top 10% of earners in this profession can earn more than $133,000, while the lower 10% can make around $48,000.
Entry-level positions may start at a lower salary, while experienced professionals or those with advanced degrees can earn significantly more. For instance, environmental consultants working for private firms or those in specialized roles like hazardous waste management often command higher salaries. Those working in government agencies might have slightly lower starting salaries but can enjoy benefits like job security and retirement plans.
Specific roles within the environmental science field also influence earnings. Furthermore, specialized certifications and advanced degrees, such as a Master's or Ph.D., can substantially boost earning potential.
Geographic location plays a role as well, with higher salaries typically found in metropolitan areas or regions with a strong demand for environmental professionals, such as those with significant natural resources or active environmental regulations. Using the most current annual mean wage data from BLS, here are the top-paying states for environmental scientists and specialists as of May 2023:
- District of Columbia - $115,910
- Connecticut - $109,710
- Massachusetts - $102,700
- California - $102,350
- Colorado - $102,250
Table of Contents
- List of the Best Online Environmental Science Degree Programs for 2025
- How long does it take to complete an online Environmental Science degree program?
- How does an online Environmental Science degree compare to an on-campus program?
- What is the average cost of an online Environmental Science degree program?
- What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online Environmental Science degree program?
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online Environmental Science degree program?
- What courses are typically in an online Environmental Science degree program?
- What types of specializations are available in online Environmental Science degree programs?
- How to choose the best online Environmental Science degree program?
- What are the benefits of pursuing an advanced degree in sustainability for career advancement?
- How Can I Verify Accreditation and Program Quality?
- Can an online Environmental Science degree open doors to roles in biotechnology?
- What career paths are available for graduates of online Environmental Science degree programs?
- What is the job market for graduates with an online Environmental Science degree?
- Other Things You Need to Know About Online Environmental Science Degrees
List of the Best Online Environmental Science Degree Programs for 2025
How do we rank schools?
A bachelor's degree provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to begin a career as an environmental scientist. As such, choosing the best baccalaureate program can get you started on the right track to pursue advanced studies and specialization. For this list, my team and I focused on some of the best online environmental science degree options that can adequately prepare graduates to begin rewarding careers. Our research process involves gathering data from credible sources like the College Scorecard database, the IPEDS database, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), and Peterson’s database, including their Distance Learning Licensed Data Set. You can learn more about the Research.com ranking methodology here.
1. Arizona State University BA in Earth and Environmental Sciences
Arizona State University (ASU) is a well-known public research institution and has been recognized for its innovation, sustainability, and global impact. ASU has an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Earth and Environmental Sciences program that is designed for students who want to understand the processes that regulate the Earth’s systems and how to sustain our planet. The degree program offers seven tracks and is also ideal for those who plan to pursue careers in conservation management, environmental science research, and public policy development or advocacy. It is also a good option for those who want to proceed to graduate studies in environmental management, natural and environmental sciences, public policy, or science journalism.
- Program Length: Four years
- Tracks/concentrations:
- Earth and Environmental Sciences General Elective
- Climate and Environmental Change
- Environmental Education
- Environmental Management
- Environmental Policy
- Natural Resources
- Sustainability
- Cost per Credit: $574 per credit for online tuition
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)
2. Virginia Wesleyan University BA in Environmental Studies
Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) is a private institution in Coastal Virginia known for its liberal arts and sciences education programs and close-knit community. The university offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies that emphasizes flexibility and real-world skill development. The program focuses on the interdisciplinary nature of the field and provides a well-rounded education to students who are passionate about issues facing the environment. VWU advertises that 90% of its alumni are working or in graduate school within one year after graduation.
- Program Length: Approximately four years
- Tracks/concentrations: BA in Environmental Studies
- Cost per Credit: $399 per credit hour
- Required Credits to Graduate: 128 credit hours
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
3. Wilmington University BS in Environmental Science and Policy
Wilmington University (WilmU) is a highly ranked private, nonprofit institution recognized for its academic excellence and affordable tuition. The school has an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Environmental Science and Policy (ES&P) degree that focuses on critical thinking, hypothesis testing, using scientific and digital schools in problem solving, and scholarly writing. The BS ES&P degree is an interdisciplinary STEM program with small class sizes. Students receive extensive lab kits for home preparation and close guidance from faculty. WilmU offers rolling admission, and classes start every eight weeks.
- Program Length: Approximately four years
- Tracks/concentrations: BS in Environmental Science and Policy
- Cost per Credit: WilmU provides an estimate of $1,257 per course
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
4. Oregon State University BS in Environmental Science
Oregon State University (OSU) is a public research institution and the largest university in the state. OSU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with four start terms per year. The program curriculum mixes math, science, and policy and includes three credits of experiential learning as a field course, internship, research, or study abroad. Matriculants will choose a specialization with the help of an academic adviser and even have the option to minor in education or enroll in graduate-level courses that will be applied to their bachelor’s degree. Students can also obtain in-demand certificates and microcredentials online.
- Program Length: Approximately four years
- Tracks/concentrations:
- Alternative Energy
- Applied Ecology
- Aquatic Biology
- Chemistry and the Environment
- Conservation, Resources, and Sustainability
- Earth Systems
- Environmental Agriculture
- Environmental Policy and Economics
- Environmental Water Resources
- Accelerated Master’s Platform
- Minor in Education
- Cost per Credit: $366 per credit
- Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credit hours
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
5. University of West Alabama BA/BS in Environmental Science
The University of West Alabama (UWA) is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Alabama. The school offers a fully online bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science. Aside from a very flexible format, UWA also has a very generous transfer credit policy. Students who are transferring from a two-year college can transfer up to 60 credits, while those coming from a four-year college can transfer up to 90 credits. Courses run for eight or 16 weeks, and the curriculum offers learners expert-level knowledge of environmental law, as well as hands-on experience and preparation for different in-demand fields in environmental science.
- Program Length: Approximately four years
- Tracks/concentrations:
- BA in Environmental Science
- BS in Environmental Science
- Cost per Credit: $325 per credit
- Required Credits to Graduate: 123 credit hours
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
How long does it take to complete an online Environmental Science degree program?
The time it takes to complete an online Environmental Science degree program varies depending on several factors, including the degree level and whether you study full-time or part-time. Here is a general breakdown:
- Associate Degree: Typically takes around two years of full-time study.
- Bachelor's Degree: Generally takes four years of full-time study. Part-time study will extend this timeframe. Some accelerated online programs may allow completion in a shorter period.
- Master's Degree: Usually takes one to two years of full-time study. Again, part-time study will lengthen the duration.
- Doctoral Degree: Can take three to five years or more, depending on the research involved.
- Certificate Programs: Certificates in specialized areas like sustainability or environmental policy can often be completed in six months to one year.
When considering an online program, it is essential to check the specific program's details regarding its duration and requirements. Other key factors that influence completion time are course prerequisites and the students' ability to manage coursework and research. Some of the easiest bachelor degree programs online may also accept transfer credits from enrollees who are transferring with an associate’s or a previous bachelor’s, allowing enrollees to complete their environmental science degree even faster.
Zippia published data in 2025 showing that a bachelor’s is the most common degree among environmental scientists, further supporting the fact that a baccalaureate can already set you on the path to start a career in this discipline. The chart below presents more information on the educational background of environmental scientists.
How does an online Environmental Science degree compare to an on-campus program?
An online Environmental Science degree offers the same foundational coursework and career opportunities as an on-campus program, with added flexibility.
- Online students often use virtual labs, interactive simulations, and fieldwork projects in their local communities.
- Accredited online programs follow the same rigorous curriculum as traditional degrees, ensuring that graduates meet industry standards.
- One key difference is learning format and structure. Online programs provide self-paced or asynchronous classes, allowing students to balance their studies with work or family commitments.
- However, on-campus programs may offer more hands-on lab work, networking opportunities, and in-person collaboration, which are some activities that college students prefer to do in person rather than online.
- Some employers prefer degrees from accredited institutions rather than focusing on whether they were earned online or in person.
Ultimately, both formats prepare students for careers in environmental science, with online programs offering greater accessibility to working professionals and those in remote locations.
According to Data USA, 9,482 universities in the U.S. offer environmental science programs, and many of them have online environmental science degree programs. Thus, take your time and carefully check the pros and cons of each online program and choose the one that best aligns with your educational and professional needs and goals.
What is the average cost of an online Environmental Science degree program?
The cost of an online Environmental Science degree program varies based on factors like institution type, residency status, and program length.
- Based on the programs my team and I reviewed for this guide, the best online environmental science degree programs cost about $300 to $600 per credit in tuition.
- Tuition cost figures from Data USA show that an environmental science degree from an in-state public college is $7,350 on average, while tuition at out-of-state private institutions is $38,644.
- Some universities offer flat-rate tuition for online students, regardless of residency.
- Additional costs may include technology fees, lab materials, and fieldwork expenses, though online students often save money on housing, commuting, and campus fees.
It is important to remember that these figures are only estimates and may not reflect the true cost of an online environmental science program. I strongly advise obtaining a more detailed and updated estimate for the total cost of attendance by directly contacting the college or university offering the program you are interested in.
What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online Environmental Science degree program
Students pursuing an online Environmental Science degree have access to various financial aid options to help reduce tuition costs. One of the primary sources is federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and student loans, which can be accessed by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many states also offer grants and scholarships for students enrolled in accredited online programs.
Military service members and veterans may qualify for education benefits through the GI Bill and other military aid programs. If you are interested in this source of funding, check military friendly colleges online that also offer environmental science degrees.
Additionally, students can apply for private scholarships from environmental organizations, nonprofits, and industry associations. Some examples of organizations that may provide scholarships are:
- The Air and Waste Management Association
- Environmental Research and Education Foundation (EREF)
- National Wildlife Federation
- The National Environmental Health Association
- World Wildlife Fund
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
- American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Some universities provide institutional scholarships specifically for online learners. Employer tuition assistance programs are another valuable resource, as some companies offer tuition reimbursement for employees studying environmental science or sustainability-related fields.
Understandably, cost is one of the biggest factors when deciding on an online environmental science degree program. With the rising prices of tuition, even cheap accredited online bachelor degree programs can be too much to shoulder for many individuals who want to pursue environmental science careers but do not have sufficient funds to support their academic and professional aspirations.
Luckily, there are several financial aid options for those who wish to work in the field of environmental science and its related disciplines. Apply to as many scholarships, grants, fellowships, and tuition assistance programs as you can so you can maximize all forms of financial support you may be eligible for.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online Environmental Science degree program?
The prerequisites for an online Environmental Science degree vary based on the level of study and the institution's requirements. For a bachelor’s degree, most programs require a high school diploma or GED, along with transcripts showing coursework in science (biology, chemistry, or earth science) and math (algebra or statistics). Some universities may also ask for SAT or ACT scores, though many online programs have waived standardized test requirements.
For a master’s degree, applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or a related field, with a minimum GPA requirement (usually 2.5–3.0). Some programs may require letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and relevant work or research experience. Additional prerequisites may include foundational coursework in ecology, statistics, or environmental policy. Many online programs offer bridge courses for students with unrelated undergraduate degrees to help them meet entry requirements.
What courses are typically in an online Environmental Science degree program?
An online Environmental Science degree program typically encompasses a broad range of scientific disciplines, as environmental science is inherently interdisciplinary. Here is a general overview of the courses you can expect:
- Biology: Focuses on ecological principles, biodiversity, and the interactions between living organisms and their environment.
- Chemistry: Covers fundamental chemical principles, including environmental chemistry, pollution, and biogeochemical cycles.
- Geology: Explores Earth's systems, including rocks, minerals, soil, and geological processes.
- Ecology: Delves into the study of ecosystems, population dynamics, and environmental interactions.
- Climate Change and Sustainability: Examines the causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies for climate change.
- Environmental Policy and Law: Explores U.S. and international environmental regulations, such as the Clean Air Act.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Teaches mapping and spatial analysis techniques for environmental research.
- Toxicology and Environmental Health: Focuses on pollutants, hazardous materials, and their effects on human and ecological health.
- Statistics and Data Analysis: Focuses on analyzing environmental data and conducting research.
Many programs also include fieldwork, research projects, or internships, allowing students to gain practical, hands-on experience even in an online setting.
It is important to note that the specific courses offered may vary depending on the institution and the specialization within the environmental science program.
What types of specializations are available in online Environmental Science degree programs?
Online Environmental Science degree programs offer various specializations, allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest within the field. While the availability of specializations can vary between institutions, here are some common ones:
- Conservation and Biodiversity: Focuses on protecting and managing natural ecosystems, wildlife, and biodiversity. Covers topics like conservation biology, wildlife management, and ecosystem restoration. This can be a good specialization if you plan to pursue an online masters in biotechnology.
- Environmental Policy and Management: Emphasizes the development and implementation of environmental policies and regulations. Includes coursework in environmental law, policy analysis, and sustainability planning.
- Sustainability: Focuses on the principles and practices of sustainable development. Covers topics like renewable energy, resource management, and environmental ethics.
- Geospatial Technologies: Focuses on the use of geographic information systems and remote sensing for environmental analysis and mapping. Covers topics like spatial analysis, cartography, and data visualization.
- Water Resources: Focuses on the management and protection of water resources. Covers topics like hydrology, water quality, and watershed management.
- Environmental Health: Focuses on the relationship between the environment and human health. Covers topics like toxicology, pollution control, and public health.
- Climate Change: Focuses on the study of climate change, its effects, and potential mitigation strategies. Covers topics like atmospheric sciences and climate modeling.
- Environmental Education: Focuses on teaching others about the environment. Covers topics like curriculum development and public outreach.
The availability of specializations may depend on the institution's resources and faculty expertise. Some programs may offer interdisciplinary specializations that combine elements of multiple fields. I suggest researching specific programs to determine their specialization offerings.
Ultimately, you want to find an online environmental science degree program and specialization that will equip you with the knowledge, training, and green skills to begin your career and work your way toward your professional goals. The 2024 Online College Students Report from EducationDynamics reveals that 69% of respondents agree that their online degree or certificate helped them get started in their careers.
How to choose the best online Environmental Science degree program?
Choosing the best online Environmental Science degree program requires careful consideration of several key factors to ensure a high-quality education and strong career prospects. Aside from cost and financial aid, here is what to look for:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized agency, such as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or a regional accrediting body. Accreditation ensures academic credibility and eligibility for financial aid.
- Curriculum and Specializations: Look for a program that offers comprehensive coursework and specializations aligned with your career interests. Many schools now also offer flexible and alternative pathways to acquire in-demand skills and credentials, such as allowing students to enroll in advanced courses or affordable graduate certificate programs while they complete their undergraduate degrees.
- Flexibility and Format: Consider whether the program offers asynchronous courses (self-paced) or synchronous classes (live sessions) to make sure it meets your scheduling needs and your preferred pace. Make sure to also check how you can access coursework and materials.
- Internship and Research Opportunities: Hands-on experience through internships, research projects, or fieldwork can enhance job prospects. Thus, it is beneficial to enroll in an online environmental science degree program with good internship and research opportunities.
- Career Support and Alumni Network: Programs with strong career services, job placement support, and networking opportunities can help with employment after graduation.
Other factors to consider include the quality of instructors, program outcomes, and student reviews.
What are the benefits of pursuing an advanced degree in sustainability for career advancement?
Obtaining an advanced degree can set you apart in a competitive field by deepening your technical expertise and leadership capabilities. A specialized graduate program not only expands your understanding of emerging sustainability practices but also equips you with strategic management and research skills that are increasingly valued by employers. This level of study often provides opportunities for enhanced networking with industry experts and access to innovative projects, ultimately paving the way to senior-level roles. Explore an affordable online masters degree in sustainability to assess how further education can complement and accelerate your career trajectory.
How Can I Verify Accreditation and Program Quality?
Prospective students should confirm that their chosen online Environmental Science degree program holds recognized accreditation from regional or national accrediting bodies, which validates the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and institutional reliability. Evaluating independent reviews, program outcomes, and feedback from employers can further guide your decision-making. Additionally, exploring insights on program affordability and access—such as data on the cheapest online environmental science degrees—can ensure you invest in quality education while considering financial factors.
Can an online Environmental Science degree open doors to roles in biotechnology?
Leveraging rigorous scientific coursework and practical lab experience, online Environmental Science programs equip graduates with transferable skills that extend into innovative sectors such as biotechnology. These programs emphasize data analysis, problem-solving, and sustainability practices that can be directly applicable to research and development roles or environmental management positions within biotech firms. Interested professionals may explore opportunities along the biotech career path where interdisciplinary knowledge and technical competence are highly valued.
What career paths are available for graduates of online Environmental Science degree programs?
Graduates of online Environmental Science degree programs have a wide array of career paths available to them, spanning various sectors. Here is a breakdown of some prominent options:
- Environmental Scientist: Conducts research on environmental issues, develops solutions for pollution control, and ensures compliance with environmental regulations.
- Environmental Consultant: Sometimes called sustainability specialists, these professionals advise businesses, governments, and organizations on environmental impact assessments and sustainability strategies. They assess environmental risks, develop environmental management plans, and conduct environmental impact assessments.
- Conservation Scientist/Natural Resource Manager: These professionals work to protect and manage natural resources, such as forests, parks, and wildlife habitats. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private land management companies.
- Environmental Policy Analyst: Policy analysts research and analyze environmental policies and regulations. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups. Some of these professionals can also have a background in public health and combine it with their environmental science education. You can check out some of the cheapest online public health degree programs to learn more about this path.
- Geographic Information Systems Analyst: Uses mapping technology to analyze and map environmental data for urban planning, conservation, and disaster management.
- Environmental Educator: Educators work to raise public awareness about environmental issues. They may work for schools, museums, parks, or non-profit organizations.
- Environmental Engineer: Environmental engineers apply engineering principles to solve environmental problems, such as pollution control and waste management. This career path often requires further engineering-specific education, but an environmental science degree can be a great starting point.
It is important to note that the specific career paths available to you may depend on your specialization within environmental science.
While a bachelor's degree can get you started, some advanced positions or research-focused roles may require a master's or doctoral degree. However, there are some cases where you can advance in your career even with just a bachelor's if you have the right experience.
If you are still pondering which environmental science career is best, comparing the earning potential of each career path can help you decide better. Using the most current data from O*NET OnLine, the chart below shows the median annual wages of certain environmental science roles.
What is the job market for graduates with an online Environmental Science degree?
The job market for Environmental Science graduates is strong and growing, driven by increasing concerns about climate change, sustainability, and environmental regulations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033.
Factors Contributing to Positive Trends in Environmental Science Careers
- Growing Environmental Awareness: Increased public and governmental awareness of climate change, pollution, and resource depletion is driving demand for environmental professionals.
- Regulatory Compliance: Stricter environmental regulations at local, state, and federal levels require businesses and organizations to hire environmental specialists for compliance.
- Sustainability Initiatives: The growing emphasis on sustainability in businesses and government agencies creates opportunities for graduates to work on sustainable practices and initiatives.
- Renewable Energy Sector: The expanding renewable energy sector, including solar and wind power, creates job opportunities for environmental scientists and consultants.
- Environmental Consulting: Environmental consulting firms are in demand to provide expertise on environmental assessments, remediation, and compliance.
Factors Affecting the Job Market
- Government funding for environmental programs can impact job availability in public sector roles.
- Economic downturns can affect hiring in some sectors, particularly in private consulting.
- Demand for environmental professionals can vary by region, depending on local environmental issues and industries.
- While the job market is generally positive, competition for certain positions can be strong, especially in highly desirable locations or specializations.
In doing research for this guide, I have found that specializing in high-demand areas, such as GIS, sustainability, or environmental consulting, can increase job prospects. Moreover, networking and gaining relevant experience can also improve employment opportunities.
Overall, graduates with an online Environmental Science degree can expect to find a variety of job opportunities in a growing field. Here are the latest employment predictions from O*NET OnLine for certain professions in environmental science for 2023-2033.
Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Environmental Science Degree
- “Earning my Environmental Science degree online allowed me to balance my job and studies without sacrificing either. The flexible schedule meant I could complete coursework at my own pace while gaining real-world experience in conservation. Now, I’ve landed a role as an environmental consultant, and I couldn't be happier with my decision.” — Sil
- “I was worried that an online Environmental Science degree wouldn’t offer enough hands-on experience, but I was wrong. Virtual labs, interactive case studies, and field assignments in my own community gave me the skills I needed. Now, I apply what I’ve learned every day as a sustainability coordinator.” — Paulie
- “Studying Environmental Science online was not only more affordable than traditional programs but also gave me access to expert professors from across the country. I loved being able to connect with classmates from different backgrounds, all passionate about making a difference. This degree opened doors I never thought possible!” — Adriana
Key Findings
- An online degree in Environmental Science can be highly worthwhile, especially for individuals passionate about protecting the environment and contributing to a sustainable future.
- Tuition cost figures from Data USA show that an environmental science degree from an in-state public college is $7,350 on average, while tuition at out-of-state private institutions is $38,644.
- Online Environmental Science degree programs offer various specializations, allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest within the field and pursue diverse career paths in government, consulting, research, and private industries, addressing critical global challenges like climate change, pollution, and resource management.
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033.
- Graduates with environmental science degrees are in demand, and many private organizations, state agencies, schools, and even employers offer scholarships, grants, fellowships, and other forms of financial assistance to help environmental science majors cover their educational costs.
Other Things You Need to Know About Online Environmental Science Degrees
Which is better, environmental science or environmental studies?
The choice between Environmental Science and Environmental Studies depends on career goals and academic interests. Environmental Science is more STEM-focused, emphasizing biology, chemistry, physics, and data analysis to study environmental systems and solve ecological problems. It is ideal for students interested in scientific research, environmental engineering, conservation, or sustainability management.
In contrast, Environmental Studies takes a more interdisciplinary approach, incorporating policy, law, ethics, and social sciences to examine human-environment interactions. This path is suited for careers in environmental advocacy, policy analysis, education, or corporate sustainability.
While Environmental Science often leads to technical and research-based careers, Environmental Studies is better for those wanting to influence policy, law, or community outreach. Ultimately, both fields offer valuable career opportunities, but the best choice depends on whether a student prefers scientific problem-solving or policy and social change.
What is the difference between BA and BS in environmental science?
The primary difference between a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science lies in the program's focus and the types of courses emphasized. A BS degree typically prioritizes a rigorous scientific foundation, with a heavier concentration on core science courses like biology, chemistry, physics, and geology. It emphasizes quantitative skills, data analysis, and laboratory work, preparing students for technical and research-oriented careers. A BA, on the other hand, often provides a broader, more interdisciplinary approach. While it still includes science courses, it also incorporates social sciences, humanities, and policy studies. This makes it suitable for careers that involve policy analysis, environmental law, education, or communication. Essentially, the BS emphasizes the "science" aspect, while the BA emphasizes the "environmental" aspect, with a wider lens on social and policy implications.
Is environmental science difficult?
An environmental science degree can be challenging due to its interdisciplinary nature, combining biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and social sciences. Students must grasp complex systems and their interactions, often requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The coursework typically includes technical components like data analysis, GIS mapping, and statistics, which can be demanding for those less familiar with quantitative methods. Additionally, fieldwork is a significant aspect of the degree, involving hands-on research in diverse and sometimes physically demanding environments. The emotional weight of studying pressing global issues, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, can also add to the difficulty. However, for students passionate about the environment and sustainability, the challenges are often balanced by the degree's practical applications and the broad career opportunities it provides.
Is environmental science harder than biology?
Whether Environmental Science is "harder" than biology is subjective and depends on individual strengths and interests. Biology often delves deeply into cellular and molecular processes, requiring a strong grasp of intricate details and memorization. Environmental Science, while incorporating biological principles, is inherently interdisciplinary. It draws from chemistry, geology, physics, and social sciences, demanding a broader understanding of interconnected systems. This breadth can be challenging as it requires integrating knowledge from diverse fields to analyze complex environmental issues. Environmental Science often emphasizes problem-solving and critical thinking in real-world contexts, which can be more demanding for some than the focused study of biological mechanisms. Ultimately, the perceived difficulty varies based on individual learning styles and the specific program's rigor.
References:
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- Data USA (n.d.). Environmental Science. https://datausa.io/profile/cip/environmental-science
- O*NET OnLine (n.d.). O*NET OnLine Help. https://www.onetonline.org/help/online/find_occ Data Retrieved on February 2025
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (April 2024). Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, 19-2041 Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health. https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes192041.htm
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (September 2024). Environmental Scientists and Specialists. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm
- Zippia (January 2025). Environmental Scientist Education Requirements. https://www.zippia.com/environmental-scientist-jobs/education
