2023 Best Online Master's Degrees for Environmental Science

What can you do with a master's in environmental science degree?

Careers in environmental science focus on protecting the earth's resources by identifying things that are harming it and working to reverse environmental degradation. In order to help realize these goals, environmental scientists work in both public agencies and private firms in a variety of specializations. Some work for the government, testing and analyzing environmental resources and suggesting policy items and regulations. Others work as consultants, helping businesses comply with government regulations and develop sound environmental practices. Academic environmental scientists may work on more theoretical research and may apply a variety of disciplines to the study of the environment, such as math and chemistry.

Job opportunities for students of environmental science are growing both in the public and private sectors. Additionally, many NGOs (nongovernmental organizations) rely on the research and work of students of environmental science to publish reports, lobby governments, and help ensure their practices meet state and federal guidelines. Even energy companies hire many environmental science graduates to analyze aspects of their businesses. In the public sector, many environmental science majors go into teaching.

Graduates of an environmental science master's program may pursue opportunities as environmental scientists, planners, consultants, managers, geospatial scientists, wildlife biologists, restoration specialists, city planners, and more, depending on their education and experience.

Meet Environmental Studies Professional Peter deFur

Throughout his career Peter has participated in a variety of leadership development programs, including a year-long stint at the Natural Resources Leadership Institute. Peter currently serves on the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council. To learn more about the best online master's in environmental science programs, check out our 2020 rankings. Otherwise, continue reading for advice from online student Peter deFur!

What do you find most and least interesting about environmental studies?

As a classically educated biologist, the most interesting aspect of environmental studies is how living systems manage to survive and even thrive in new and changing conditions. But I find that I am learning so much about so many different topics, that I can honestly say that each day is a learning experience.

I sometimes grow frustrated that I cannot deal with more progress in teaching or in my consulting work. One example is the local issue of the Chesapeake Bay. The governments around the Chesapeake Bay, where I live, signed the first Chesapeake Bay Agreement in 1985, nearly 30 years ago and the largest problem remains. The difficulty in solving the problem is not lack of knowledge on how we can solve the problem, but the difficulty in generating the will to solve the problems.

Are there subfields of environmental studies that students might not be aware of?

That is hard to say, because any subject area students can think of has an environmental field -- all the sciences (geology, hydrology, biology, chemistry, psychology, anthropology), engineering, economics, sociology, art, literature, and education.

What careers do students commonly pursue with a degree in environmental studies?

For the longest time, environmental studies graduates went into some area of science, management, or law with a company, university, or government. But that pattern has changed incredibly in the past 10 years or so, and I see the job opportunities continuing to expand. I see jobs and careers in the environmental field that did not exist 10 years ago. Perhaps the field that is expanding the most is restoration of streams, rivers, fields, and forests.

Is a graduate degree preferable for a career in environmental studies, or can someone enter the field with a bachelor's degree?

Some people find that an undergraduate degree suits their job and career interests, and in others, a graduate degree is necessary, so it depends. The sciences are more likely to expect a graduate degree, especially if there is research in the job.

Do you think environmental studies is a subject that can be studied online, or is a traditional class environment ideal?

I have taught several online courses, and if done properly, online courses work fine. I think the important aspect of environmental studies courses is a strong emphasis on practical aspects, not just theory.

Online Master's in Environmental Science Overview

An online master’s degree in environmental science can help prepare graduates for advanced environmental scientist positions that require understanding, analyzing, and managing the world’s climates and ecosystems. Knowledge of the environment and its effects are important to local, state, and federal agencies, engineering and environmental consulting firms, independent research laboratories, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and many other employers.

Online master's in environmental science degrees are available in a range of subjects and specializations. Some degree programs provide an interdisciplinary curriculum, an approach that is well-suited to students who have not yet decided on a specific career path. However, other programs offer a concentration that focuses on a defined area within the field of environmental science, which is ideal for those students who want to tailor their education to their personal interests and career goals. Concentrations available in online environmental science master's programs include:

• Natural resources
• Forestry
• Environmental engineering
• Wildlife science
• Environmental policy

For those students who are interested in pursuing research opportunities during their master's in environmental science program, there are a number of institutions that are particularly focused on research. Universities have hosted some of the most innovative research projects for environmental science in the last couple of decades, and students who attend one of these schools may have the opportunity to get involved in such projects. These schools often provide funding opportunities for research projects, and may also have the latest technology and some of the top professors in the field. Research projects can also be beneficial for networking and ongoing professional partnership opportunities.

The Importance of an Accredited Online Master's in Environmental Science Degree

Accreditation is an important criteria in selecting an online master’s program. Accreditation means that the college or university degree program has received a comprehensive evaluation by an authoritative, independent agency and been proven to meet high academic standards. Legitimate accrediting agencies are recognized by the US Department of Education and will be found in the USDE database.

Many graduate schools, licensing boards, and even future employers will require degrees that have been issued by an accredited program. Accreditation may also be required for certain scholarships or financial aid. Students should visit the US Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation for a list of accredited schools before selecting a degree program.

What are the best areas of specialization in environmental science?

Environmental science is an exciting and interdisciplinary field that students can take in a number of directions. Graduates of an online master’s program in environmental science can focus on scientific inquiry or apply their knowledge to areas within business or law. Here are just a few potential areas of specialization:

• Environmental Analyst: As an increasing number of business organizations become aware of the need for greater corporate social responsibility, they are beginning to hire environmental analysts to help them make better use of resources and to meet environmental regulations. Environmental analysts also work with governmental agencies, studying and evaluating the human impact on the planet’s air, water, soil, and food supplies with the objective of preserving and keeping them safe. For this reason, it is beneficial for environmental analysts to earn certification in environmental risk management, as well as a master’s degree in environmental science.
• Environmental Law: Like all lawyers, an attorney specializing in environmental law must have a Juris Doctorate degree, which takes three years to earn. Combining a law degree with an environmental science master's degree will lead to a whole new array of opportunities. Students will have a unique mastery of environmental law that will enable them to work in top positions and make effective, positive changes.
• Environmental Science: The number of environmental science jobs increases each year. Many such scientists have PhDs, but earning a master's degree in environmental science is often the first step. Successful environmental scientists are problem solvers. They are charged with finding appropriate, sustainable solutions to large-scale environmental concerns, such as pollution and renewable energy sources, and they may spend many years working on one particular issue. Patience and the ability to work well with large groups is of the utmost importance for environmental scientists.

Do I need a certification for advancement in the field of environmental science?

Although certification is not required to advance in this field, students who’ve earned bachelor’s or master’s degrees in environmental science may want to consider strengthening their professional credentials by seeking certification in one of these areas of specialization:

• Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) : The National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) provides certification to professionals who have an understanding of the basic principles of environmental science, including chemistry, physics, biology, zoology, earth science, meteorology, and environmental health. This requires an exam, a related bachelor’s degree, and three years of acceptable work experience.
• Certified Environmental Auditor (CEA) : Available through the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP), this specialty program certifies professionals conducting environmental compliance and risk audits of on-going procedures, operating facilities, and related equipment. This certification requires an environmentally related bachelor’s degree, four years of work experience, and an exam.
• Registered Environmental Professional (REP) : Designed to set the standard for environmental and safety certification, the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP) provides certification to professionals who have a graduate level degree in a related field as well as work experience. There is no exam required.

Frequently Asked Questions about Environmental Science Master's Degrees