Most Affordable Online Geosciences Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Professional roles in the field of geosciences can provide you with abundant career opportunities and decent income potential. For instance, employment for geoscientists in the United States (US) has been projected to increase by 5% from 2023 to 2033, which is equivalent to an average of around 2,200 job openings per year over the decade [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2025].

Moreover, geoscientists had a median annual wage of $99,240 in May 2024, which is significantly higher than the $49,500 median annual wage of all US occupations in the same period (US BLS, 2025).

To help aspiring professionals venture into the field, I created this comprehensive guide to online geosciences degree programs. With this, you can explore program curricula, admission requirements, tuition rates, income potential, and job outlook for this profession.

What are the benefits of getting an online geosciences degree program?

• An online geosciences degree can help individuals land jobs as geoscientists, environmental scientists, hydrologists, geological engineers, and petroleum engineers.
• In May 2024, geoscientists in the US had a median annual wage of $99,240 (US BLS, 2025).
• Earning a geosciences degree online offers flexible learning. It enables students to balance studies with work or family while gaining in-demand skills for careers in environmental science and geology.

What can I expect from online geosciences degree programs?

Online geosciences degree programs offer a comprehensive blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in essential areas, such as geology, environmental science, and geographic information systems (GIS). Students can expect to take courses in earth systems, mineralogy, hydrology, and geophysics. These courses may also involve interactive labs or simulations.

Many programs also incorporate fieldwork requirements that can be completed locally or during brief on-campus residencies. Online platforms usually provide access to video lectures, discussion forums, and digital tools for data analysis and mapping.

These programs are designed to be adjustable, enabling students to complete coursework on their own schedules while still engaging with faculty and peers. Graduates are prepared for careers in environmental consulting, natural resource management, or further academic study, among other potential jobs.

Where can I work with an online geosciences degree?

In the US, around 26,000 geoscientists were employed in 2023. The following are the largest employers of these professionals during that year (US BLS, 2025):

• Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services: 33%
• Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services: 15%
• Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction: 15%
• Federal Government, Excluding Postal Service: 9%
• State Government, Excluding Education and Hospitals: 9%

How much can I make with an online geosciences degree?

Having an online geosciences degree can be a stepping stone to a profitable and fulfilling career. In May 2024, geoscientists in the US had a median annual wage of $99,240. The figure is significantly higher than the $49,500 median annual wage of all US occupations in the same period (US BLS, 2025).

Moreover, the following related roles also had a median annual wage that was much higher than that of all US occupations in May 2024 (US BLS, 2025):

• Environmental Scientists and Specialists: $80,060
• Hydrologists: $92,060
• Mining and Geological Engineers: $101,020
• Petroleum Engineers: $141,280
• Natural Sciences Managers: $161,180

Table of Contents

1. List of Online Geosciences Degree Programs for 2025
2. How long does it take to complete an online geosciences degree program?
3. How does an online geosciences degree program compare to an on-campus program?
4. What is the average cost of an online geosciences degree program?
5. What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online geosciences degree program?
6. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online geosciences degree program?
7. What courses are typically in an online geosciences degree program?
8. What types of specializations are available in online geosciences degree programs?
9. How do you choose the best online geosciences degree program?
10. How can I verify the accreditation and quality standards of an online geosciences program?
11. How do online geosciences degree programs compare to online biochemistry degree programs?
12. Can complementary management skills boost career advancement?
13. What career paths are available to graduates of online geosciences degree programs?
14. What is the job market like for graduates of online geosciences degree programs?
15. Other Things You Need to Know about Online Geosciences Degree Programs

List of Online Geosciences Degree Programs for 2025

To help you advance your geosciences career, I created a list of reputable online geosciences degree programs offered by accredited academic institutions across the US.

The list is based on the research methodology that my team and I established. We collected and analyzed recent data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online bachelor of science (BS) degree program in geosciences. The program curriculum includes courses in the fundamentals of chemistry, earth system science, as well as geostatistics and data analysis.

Students will learn key principles and practices that can help them address and solve environmental issues. Moreover, not only will students be taught technical skills, but they will also develop relevant interpersonal skills that are important when navigating the workplace.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Areas of Concentration: Data Analytics in Science; Natural Resources & Conservation
• Cost per Credit: $330
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

2. Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University offers an online BS degree program in geosciences with a concentration in broadcast and operational meteorology. The program is aimed at aspiring broadcast meteorologists, but individuals seeking related professions, such as journalist, educator, and military personnel, may find the degree useful in these roles.

The program curriculum includes physical geography, weather and climate, natural hazards and processes, water resources, and synoptic meteorology.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Area of Concentration: Broadcast and Operational Meteorology
• Cost per Credit: $419
• Required Credits to Graduate: 124 credits
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a BS degree program in geology that students can take either on campus or online. The program curriculum includes courses in geomorphology, mineralogy, structural geology, petrology, as well as sedimentology and stratigraphy.

Course delivery is asynchronous, including lesson modules, video content, and virtual libraries.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Areas of Concentration: Earth Science; Paleontology; Petroleum Geology; Water Resources
• Cost per Credit: $611.75
• Required Credits to Graduate: 125 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University offers an online BS degree program in environmental and geographic sciences. The program was created to develop students’ “power” skills and technical skills, such as communication, critical thinking, and field skills.

Moreover, the program curriculum includes courses in world regional geography, geographic information systems, political geography, principles of remote sensing, and conservation of natural resources.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Area of Concentration: Geoscience
• Cost per Credit: $185 (Resident); $727.67 (Non-resident)
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers an online BS degree program in geographic information systems technology. The program curriculum includes courses in remote sensing, spatial analysis and modeling, as well as cartographic design and production.

With this program, students can equip themselves with skills in python programming, data science, and geoprocessing.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Area of Concentration: Geographic Information Systems
• Cost per Credit: $525
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

How long does it take to complete an online geosciences degree program?

The program length of online geosciences degree programs usually ranges from 3 to 4 years for full-time students at the bachelor’s degree level. Most programs require around 120 credit hours for graduation, which includes general education courses, core geosciences classes, and electives.

For those wondering how to become an environmental scientist, completing a geosciences degree can be a crucial first step, as it provides foundational knowledge in Earth systems and environmental analysis.

Part-time students may take longer to complete their degrees, depending on their course load and scheduling flexibility. Some schools offer accelerated options or accept transfer credits, which can significantly shorten the time to graduation.

Online programs often follow a traditional semester schedule, but others may use shorter, more intensive terms to allow faster progress. Students should also consider any fieldwork or lab components, which may require in-person participation or local arrangements.

Overall, online geosciences degree programs provide the flexibility to fit a range of schedules while maintaining academic rigor and professional preparation.

How does an online geosciences degree program compare to an on-campus program?

On-campus and online geosciences degree programs offer similar academic content but differ in structure, delivery, and student experience. The following are three key differences:

• Learning Format: Online degree programs deliver lectures and coursework through digital platforms, enabling students to study at their own pace. On-campus degree programs follow a set class schedule with in-person instruction.
• Fieldwork and Labs: On-campus programs often include hands-on lab sessions and field trips as part of the curriculum. Meanwhile, online programs may use virtual labs or require students to complete fieldwork locally or during short campus visits.
• Interaction and Networking: On-campus students usually benefit from face-to-face engagement with peers and faculty, fostering real-time discussions and networking opportunities. On the other hand, online students interact through forums, video calls, and emails, which can be more flexible but less immersive.

What is the average cost of an online geosciences degree program?

Online geosciences programs tend to be affordable, often on par with the cheapest online geography degree programs. Public institutions or in-state tuition rates can significantly lower overall costs, making this a smart option for students pursuing careers in earth sciences or environmental research. These may require different tuition rates, depending on the academic institution:

• Southern New Hampshire University offers one of the most affordable options at just $330 per credit.
• Mississippi State University charges $419, while the University of Arizona’s rate is $525 per credit.
• The University of North Dakota tuition sits slightly higher at $611.75 per credit.
• North Carolina Central University requires resident students to pay just $185 per credit, whereas non-residents pay $727.67 per credit.

When determining what school offers the best online geoscience and geology degree programs, tuition differences can significantly impact total cost. It is essential for prospective students to consider residency status, credit requirements, and potential fee structures when selecting an online geosciences degree program.

The chart below provides a visualization of the cost per credit of online geosciences degree programs, according to current tuition data from the featured academic institutions.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online geosciences degree program?

College is a huge financial commitment, which is why financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and employee tuition assistance programs, are essential. The following programs can help eligible students lift the financial burden of higher education.

American Geosciences Institute (AGI) Scholarships:

Students can apply for scholarships offered by the AGI Federation of societies and associated organizations. These include Next Horizons First-Generation Student Geoscience Scholarship program, which provides a one-time, merit-based financial award of $5,000 to qualified US geoscience students who are the first-generation in their families to go to college.  

Association for Women Geoscientists (AWG) Chapter Awards & Scholarships

AWG chapters provide scholarships matched by the AWG Foundation. These scholarship and awards programs include:

• The San Francisco Bay Outstanding Student Award
• The San Francisco Bay Science Fair Awards
• The Osage Chapter Undergraduate Research Scholarship

Scholarships Offered by Specific Academic Institutions

Students can explore scholarship programs that may be offered by their preferred academic institutions. For instance, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers scholarship programs for online and on-campus students. Some examples include:

• The Finlay Family Scholarship
• The Hassa Jadvani Memorial Scholarship
• The John and Nancy Burk Endowed Scholarship

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online geosciences degree program?

Before enrolling in an online geosciences degree program, students typically need to meet several academic and application requirements. The following are three common prerequisites:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. Most programs also expect a minimum GPA to demonstrate academic readiness.
• Math and Science Background: A solid foundation in key subjects, such as algebra, geometry, chemistry, and earth science, is often recommended. These courses prepare students for the technical aspects of geosciences coursework.
• Official Transcripts and Application Materials: Students must submit official transcripts from all previous schools attended. Additional materials, such as a personal statement or letters of recommendation, may also be required depending on the program.

Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent, with a solid background in science and math. This mirrors the entry requirements of accredited SLP graduate programs, which also emphasize academic readiness in foundational subjects before advancing to field-specific studies.

What courses are typically in an online geosciences degree program?

Online geosciences degree programs offer a diverse curriculum that blends foundational science with applied skills to prepare students for careers in earth and environmental sciences. The following are five common courses students can expect:

• Physical Geology: This course introduces the structure and processes of the Earth. The course covers key topics, such as plate tectonics, rock formation, and erosion. It provides the scientific foundation for more advanced studies.
• Mineralogy: Students explore the chemical and physical properties of minerals, learning how to identify and classify them through hands-on virtual labs or sample analysis.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): This course teaches students how to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data. GIS is a key tool in environmental analysis, urban planning, and resource management. It is also a core component in some of the best GIS degree programs available online.
• Hydrology: This course teaches students about the movement, distribution, and quality of water on Earth. Topics covered include the water cycle, groundwater flow, and human impacts on water systems.
• Environmental Geoscience: This course examines the interactions between human activities and the Earth's systems. It focuses on important issues, including pollution, climate change, and sustainable resource use.

What types of specializations are available in online geosciences degree programs?

Online geosciences degree programs often offer a variety of concentrations, allowing students to align their studies with specific career interests or scientific fields. The following are some common concentration options:

• Natural Resources and Conservation: This focus emphasizes sustainable resource management, environmental protection, and conservation strategies. It prepares students for careers in environmental policy or ecological consulting.
• Broadcast and Operational Meteorology: Students learn about weather systems, forecasting, and communication. This concentration is ideal for those interested in becoming meteorologists or weather broadcasters.
• Earth Science: A broad concentration covering geology, oceanography, and atmospheric science, this concentration provides a solid foundation for teaching or general science careers.
• Paleontology: This concentration explores the history of life through fossil records, combining geology and biology for careers in research, museums, or academia.
• Petroleum Geology: Focused on the exploration and extraction of oil and gas resources, this path prepares students for work in the energy industry.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS): Students learn to analyze spatial data and create maps, which are critical skills in urban planning, environmental science, and disaster management.

How do you choose the best online geosciences degree program?

When selecting a program, consider curriculum depth, faculty experience, and hands-on components—similar to how students evaluate an affordable environmental engineering degree online. Students should consider several key factors to ensure that the program aligns with their academic goals and career aspirations. The following are three important criteria:

• Accreditation and Reputation: Students should choose programs that are regionally accredited and offered by reputable academic institutions. Accreditation ensures academic quality and can affect credit transfer and job opportunities.
• Concentration Options and Curriculum: Programs that offer concentrations aligned with a student's interests, such as geographic information systems (GIS), meteorology, or paleontology, can provide more specialized training and better career preparation. For those researching what degree do you need to be a science teacher, choosing a program with a strong earth science focus can also be beneficial.
• Flexibility and Support Services: Look for programs that offer flexible scheduling, particularly for working professionals. Access to online tutoring, academic advising, and career services can also enhance the learning experience.

How can I verify the accreditation and quality standards of an online geosciences program?

Prospective students should examine official accreditation from recognized bodies and review program-specific certifications that align with industry benchmarks. Evaluate the institution’s academic rigor by verifying faculty credentials, resource availability, and partnerships with professional organizations. Additionally, scrutinize metrics such as graduation rates, graduate employment statistics, and student support services to ensure the program meets established quality standards. In parallel, exploring comparisons with programs like the online video game development degree can provide useful insights into curriculum innovation and delivery methods.

How do online geosciences degree programs compare to online biochemistry degree programs?

Online geosciences degree programs and online biochemistry degree programs differ in academic focus, skill development, and career trajectories. Geosciences emphasize Earth system processes, spatial data analysis, and field-based experiences supported by digital mapping technologies. In contrast, biochemistry degrees concentrate on chemical processes within biological systems, laboratory research, and analytical techniques. Understanding these distinctions can help prospective students align their educational choices with their career objectives and preferred work environments. For further comparison with related disciplines, review the details available on our article about online biochemistry degree programs.

Can complementary management skills boost career advancement?

Online geosciences degree programs equip students with strong technical foundations; however, integrating leadership and strategic management capabilities can further enhance career opportunities. Graduates who develop skills in project management, effective communication, and business strategy are well-positioned to navigate roles that require both scientific expertise and operational oversight. This interdisciplinary approach can be especially advantageous when seeking managerial or leadership positions within technical organizations. For those looking to augment their qualifications, exploring the most affordable engineering management online masters may provide a valuable competitive edge.

What career paths are available to graduates of online geosciences degree programs?

Graduates often work in environmental consulting, energy, or natural resource management. Others, like those completing affordable dog obedience training online, enter niche fields where specialized knowledge and certification open up targeted career opportunities in high-demand industries.

Several career paths are available to graduates of online geosciences degree programs. Explore the following and their median annual wages (US BLS, 2025) to understand which one you want to pursue:

• Environmental Scientists and Specialists ($80,060): Environmental scientists and specialists study environmental issues, conduct site assessments, and develop strategies to protect ecosystems and public health. For those researching the environmental scientist salary, this role offers a competitive median wage and opportunities across both public and private sectors.
• Hydrologists ($92,060): Hydrologists investigate water cycles, monitor water quality, and develop sustainable water management solutions.
• Atmospheric Scientists (including Meteorologists) ($97,450): This role involves analyzing weather patterns, climate data, and advising on forecasts for public safety and planning.
• Geoscientists ($99,240): Geoscientists study Earth's composition, conduct field investigations, and work in related sectors, such as mining, oil and gas, or environmental consulting.
• Mining and Geological Engineers ($101,020): These engineers design and oversee safe, efficient extraction of minerals, integrating geology with engineering principles.
• Petroleum Engineers ($141,280): These are specialists in designing and managing extraction of oil and gas, using advanced techniques to optimize reservoir production.
• Natural Sciences Managers ($161,180): Natural science managers oversee scientific teams, manage research projects, and align programs with organizational goals.

The chart below provides a visualization of the median annual wages of professionals in the geosciences in the US in May 2024, according to 2025 data from the UB BLS.

What is the job market like for graduates of online geosciences degree programs?

Between 2023 and 2033, employment for geoscientists across the US is set to increase by 5%, which is as fast as the average job growth rate for all occupations in the country. This is equivalent to an average of around 2,200 job openings for the role yearly over the decade (US BLS, 2025).

Employment for environmental scientists and specialists has been projected to grow by 7% over the same decade, which is faster than the average job growth rate for all US occupations. This translates to an average of about 8,500 job openings for these professionals every year over the decade (US BLS, 2025).

Notably, some roles in the field of the geosciences are also expected to have a slow job growth rate from 2023 to 2033.

For instance, mining and geological engineers have a rate of 2%, which is slower than average and is equivalent to about 400 job openings annually over the decade. Petroleum engineers also have a job growth rate of 2%, which translates to an average of around 1,200 job openings yearly from 2023 and 2033 (US BLS, 2025).

For professionals considering advanced roles, exploring affordable master's in science online programs may offer a competitive edge in the job market.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say about Their Online Geosciences Degree Programs

• “Earning my online geosciences degree allowed me to transition from teaching to working as an environmental consultant—all while raising two kids. The flexibility of the program let me learn at my own pace, and the hands-on virtual labs were surprisingly immersive.” —Charlie
• “The online geosciences program gave me the technical GIS skills I needed to land a job with a state geological survey. I never imagined remote learning could feel this engaging—I felt supported every step of the way by professors who truly cared.” —Nat
• “As someone already working in the oil and gas sector, the online degree helped me specialize in hydrogeology without taking time off. It was empowering to immediately apply new knowledge on-site and grow into a leadership role in my company.” —Francis

Key Findings

• Online geosciences degree programs in the US may require different tuition rates, depending on the academic institution. For example, Southern New Hampshire University charges $330 per credit while the Mississippi State University charges $419 per credit.
• Students can apply for scholarships offered by the AGI Federation of societies and associated organizations. One example is the Next Horizons First-Generation Student Geoscience Scholarship program, which awards up to $5,000 to qualified students.
• In the academic year 2023–2024, the average amount of financial aid awarded per full-time equivalent (FTE) undergraduate student in the US was $16,360 (Ma, Pender, & Oster, 2024).
• In May 2024, geoscientists in the US had a median annual wage of $99,240.
• Between 2023 and 2033, employment for geoscientists across the US is set to increase by 5%, which is as fast as the average job growth rate for all occupations in the country (US BLS, 2025).

Other Things You Need to Know about Online Geosciences Degree Programs

What is the study of geoscience?

Geoscience is the study of Earth’s structure, processes, and history. It explores key topics, such as rocks, minerals, earthquakes, climate change, and natural resources. By understanding how Earth systems interact, geoscientists help solve environmental challenges and manage resources, including water, energy, and soil.

What is the highest-paying job in geoscience?

One of the highest-paying jobs in geosciences is natural sciences manager, with a median annual salary of $161,180 (US BLS, 2025). These professionals oversee scientific research and development projects, manage teams of geoscientists and other specialists, and ensure that goals are met efficiently in different sectors, such as energy, environmental consulting, and government.

Which degree is best for a geologist?

The best degree for a geologist is a bachelor’s degree in geology or earth sciences, which provides a strong foundation in mineralogy, petrology, and field methods. For advanced research or specialized roles, a master’s degree or PhD in geology or related fields is often required.

What is the difference between a geologist and a geoscientist?

A geologist focuses on studying the Earth's solid materials, such as rocks, minerals, and landforms. Meanwhile, a geoscientist is a broader term that includes geologists but also professionals who study Earth's atmosphere, oceans, and environmental systems, making geoscience a more comprehensive field than geology alone.

References:

• Ma, J., Pender, M., & Oster, M. (2024). Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid 2024. College Board. https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/Trends-in-College-Pricing-and-Student-Aid-2024-ADA.pdf
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/atmospheric-scientists-including-meteorologists.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Environmental Scientists and Specialists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/environmental-scientists-and-specialists.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Geoscientists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/geoscientists.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Hydrologists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/hydrologists.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Mining and Geological Engineers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mining-and-geological-engineers.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Natural Sciences Managers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/natural-sciences-managers.htm
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Industry: Cross-industry, Private, Federal, State, Local Government, Period: May 2024. Occupation Employment and Wage Statistics Query System. https://data.bls.gov/oes/#/industry/000000
• US Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, April 18). Petroleum Engineers. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/petroleum-engineers.htm