2023 Most Affordable Online Environmental Science Degrees
Environmental sciences is a field of study that examines climate change, conservation, waste management, development, disaster reduction, and other global issues. An online bachelor’s in environmental science, or fire science as an alternative, may be an excellent fit for students interested in addressing global environmental problems in their careers.
Most online bachelor’s in environmental science covers ethics, sustainability, and environmental law. Graduates may pursue further education with a master’s degree in environmental science or begin careers, like Natural Resource Manager, Environmental Engineer, and Air Pollution Analyst. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), environmental scientists and specialists earn a median annual salary of $76,530.
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| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Hays State University | Hays (KS) | $6,806 | |
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach (AL) | $7,050 | |
| Delta State University | Cleveland (MS) | $8,360 | |
| SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry | Syracuse (NY) | $8,480 | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | Manchester (NH) | $9,600 | |
| Kean University | Union (NJ) | $10,445 | |
| University of Wisconsin - Green Bay | Green Bay (WI) | $10,590 | |
| American Public University System | Charles Town (WV) | $11,150 | |
| Florida International University | Miami (FL) | $11,276 | |
| Wilmington University | New Castle (DE) | $11,700 |
Fort Hays State University Hays (KS) Fort Hays State University (FHSU) is a medium-sized, public institution offering two online degrees relating to environmental science: a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Geosciences and a Bachelor of General Studies - Sustainability. Each requires 120 credit hours. The first program combines geology and geography, while the latter is a liberal arts approach to sustainability. Sample coursework includes Global Challenges, Cultural Geography, and Environmental Geology. At FHSU, online students complete online coursework asynchronously and synchronously on Blackboard, a popular learning management system. Online student support includes academic advising, technical support, and a writing center. The program’s admission requirements are a minimum 2.25 GPA, an ACT score of 21 or higher, or a minimum SAT score of 1060.
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Columbia Southern University Orange Beach (AL) At Columbia Southern University (CSU) — a medium-sized, private, for-profit institution — prospective students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management, totaling 120 credit hours. The program’s curriculum covers environmental theory, mitigation, and remediation strategies for environmental hazards. In addition, students use team-based approaches to address environmental issues. Example courses include Environmental Law, Pollution Prevention, and Toxicology. CSU facilitates online coursework and discussion forums on Blackboard. Online student support covers academic advising, math and writing centers, and an online library. Program admission requirements include an application and a high school diploma or GED.
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Delta State University Cleveland (MS) Delta State University (DSU) is a small, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences- Geospatial Technologies. Totaling 124 credit hours, this program requires students to complete a GIS internship before graduation. Program coursework includes Foundations of Environmental Science, Spacial Solutions to Natural Resources Issues, and Basic Photography. At DSU, online students complete work asynchronously and synchronously on Canvas. In addition, online students can access an online library and support. Admission requirements include an application, unofficial transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores.
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SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Syracuse (NY) Prospective students interested in studying environmental sciences can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Sustainability Management at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) — a small, public institution. Totaling 60 credit hours, prospective students can expect to engage in a curriculum that ties real-world experiences to sustainability practices. Program coursework includes Sustainable Urbanism, Climate Change and Sustainability, and Ecology. ESF facilitates online coursework, which is delivered in asynchronous and synchronous formats through the platforms, Blackboard, and Brightspace. Online student support includes IT services and disability support. The program’s admission requirements are an application and official high school transcripts, while college entrance exam scores are optional.
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Southern New Hampshire University Online Manchester (NH) Southern New Hampshire University Online (SNHU) is a large, private nonprofit institution, which offers several online degrees in environmental science: (1) Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (121 credit hours), (2) Bachelor of Arts in General Studies - Environmental Studies Essentials (120 credit hours), (3) Bachelor of Science in Geoscience (120 credit hours), and (4) a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology - Environmental Sustainability (120 credit hours). All four programs cover the various aspects of environmental science, like sustainability, ethics, and geology. At SNHU, online work is facilitated in an asynchronous format on Brightspace, meaning that students can study at their own pace. Online students can access academic advising, library services, and a learning center remotely. The program’s admission requirements are transcripts and an electronic attestation form showing proof of high school or GED completion.
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Kean University Union (NJ) Kean University (Kean) is a medium-sized, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Biology - Environmental Biology requiring 120 credit hours. This program allows students to address real-world environmental issues and engage in research-based projects. Example coursework includes Evolutionary Biology, Ecosystem Science, and Conservation Biology. At Kean Online, students complete online coursework, which is delivered in an asynchronous format through Blackboard. In addition, online students can access academic advising, a writing center, tutoring, and career services. The program’s general admission requirements are an application, official high school transcripts, a Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR), and a FAFSA application.
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University of Wisconsin - Green Bay Green Bay (WI) The University of Wisconsin - Green Bay (UW - Green Bay), a medium, public institution, offers two online degrees in environmental sciences: a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Applied Studies in Organizational Leadership - Environmental Policy & Planning. Either option requires 42 emphasis area credits. Both programs are designed for students who are interested in saving the environment by creating efficient environmental policies. Sample coursework includes Environment and Society, Leadership in Organizations, and Fundamentals of Public Address. UW - Green Bay's online students complete coursework in asynchronous and synchronous formats on Canvas. Online student support includes tutoring, a writing center, and academic advising. Applicants must submit an application and official high school transcripts, while turning in ACT/SAT scores are optional.
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American Public University System Charles Town (WV) American Public University (APU) is a large, private, for-profit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science that takes 120 credit hours to complete. Prospective students can choose from five concentrations: (1) Sustainability, (2) Environmental Technology and Management, (3) General, (4) Fish and Wildlife Management, (5) and Regional and Community Planning. In general, the program combines science, management, and policy coursework while covering the natural and social sciences. APU facilitates online coursework, which is delivered in an asynchronous format, on the platform Brightspace. Online student support can include academic advising and disability services. The program’s admission requirements involve submitting proof of high school completion, an application, a government-issued ID, and an agreement to the university’s policies and procedures.
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Florida International University Miami (FL) Florida International University (FIU) is a large, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Arts in Sustainability and the Environment. This program, totaling 120 credit hours, is designed to help students learn how they can create solutions to global sustainability issues. The future job outlook for graduates of the program includes Sustainability Coordinator, Sustainability Analyst, and Operations Manager. At FIU, online students complete coursework remotely on Canvas at their own pace. In addition, online students can access success coaching, tutoring, and IT support. The program’s admission requirements include an application, official high school transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores.
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Wilmington University New Castle (DE) At Wilmington University (WilmU) — a private nonprofit institution with a medium-sized student population — prospective students can pursue an online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy, which requires 120 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to develop their critical thinking, scholarly writing, and problem-solving skills. Some courses included in the curriculum are Ethics for Life, Writing for Public Policy, and Contemporary Global Issues. WilmU’s online students use Canvas to complete coursework both asynchronously and synchronously. In addition, online students can access academic advising, tutoring, and career services. The program’s admission requirements include an application, official transcripts, and immunization records.
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Overview of Online Environmental Science Bachelor's Degrees
An environmental science bachelor's degree is ideal for those who are fascinated by conservation and climate change and want to know more about waste management, disaster preparedness, and environmental law. Undergraduate programs in this field are designed to provide you with an advanced understanding of the relationship between human activity and the environment.
Online degrees in environmental science help prepare you for a career dedicated to making positive change. Some of the technical skills you're likely to develop include data analysis and modeling, laboratory techniques, GIS (geographic information systems) proficiency, and environmental impact assessments. Additionally, you'll foster soft skills like critical thinking, project management, and effective communication.
As you progress through an online program, you'll find that your projects and assignments often revolve around real-world challenges. You may be asked to review case studies, conduct field investigations, write research papers, and provide policy analysis.
Common Courses
Most online bachelor's programs in environmental science require the completion of 120-124 credit hours. In addition to core courses, you'll have an array of related electives to choose from, allowing you to tailor your program to your interests and career goals. Some programs include an internship or a capstone project.
Below are some of the core courses often found in an environmental science program:
Climate Change
This course explores the science of climate change, its causes, and its potential impact on the planet's ecosystems. Coursework is likely to include the economic, political, and social influences on climate change.
Conservation Biology
Students learn the principles of conserving biological diversity, including the ecological theories behind conservation efforts. Real-world examples and case studies help students understand the impact of these actions.
Environmental Chemistry
This course addresses the chemical processes that occur in natural and polluted environments. Online students may be required to purchase lab kits or assemble lab equipment to complete assignments.
Environmental Policy and Law
This course provides an understanding of the legal and policy aspects of environmental issues, including legislative processes and litigation tactics.
GIS and Remote Sensing
In this advanced course, students gain skills in geospatial technology, learning to use GIS and remote sensing tools to analyze and solve environmental problems.
Want more options for an undergraduate degree in this field? Explore our list of the best bachelor's programs in environmental science.
Funding an Online Environmental Science Degree
Paying for a college education can seem daunting, but you probably have several sources of funding available to you. Some of the possibilities include savings, income, grants, scholarships, and student loans.
The following list provides you with five additional ideas for reducing your expenses and saving money in college:
- Enroll in an online degree program. Unless the traditional, on-campus experience is something you've always dreamed of, you may want to consider an online program like the most affordable environmental science degrees listed above. Distance education can be more economical because some colleges charge lower tuition rates for online learners. Also, keep in mind that the traditional approach will include hefty fees for room and board or transportation — fees that are eliminated when you study remotely.
- Opt for a public university. Here again, unless there's a particular private institution you've always wanted to attend, consider public schools. Recent data published by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicate that the average tuition and fees for bachelor's degrees at public schools were about one-fourth of the tuition and fees charged at private schools — $9,375 as compared to $32,825.
- Find a cheap place to live. One of the benefits of online college is that you can live anywhere while attending school. You may be able to minimize your rent, food, and other living expenses by moving to a more economical town or city.
- Fulfill your general education requirements at an affordable community college. Generally speaking, in the first two years of a bachelor's program, you'll take about 20 general education courses, such as literature, algebra, and psychology. You could save thousands in tuition fees by taking these courses at an online community college and then transferring to a four-year university. According to the NCES, community colleges charge an average annual tuition rate of $3,501. Many of these schools also offer online classes for your convenience.
- Earn extra income by working. Holding a part-time or full-time job while attending college has both advantages and drawbacks. However, every dollar that you can put towards paying for your degree may help you avoid student loan debt.
Financial Aid
Another way you might be able to economize on an environmental science bachelor's degree is to apply for financial aid. The funds that come from the federal and state governments and from the schools themselves are usually reserved for students with financial need, but all on-campus and online students enrolled in accredited bachelor's programs can apply for aid.
There are several types of aid available, and some are more desirable than others. Scholarships and grants are preferred because they don't have to be repaid.
Federal and private student loans are less appealing because they have to be paid back with interest. But, depending on your circumstances, a student loan may be your best option. Before accepting a loan, use a student loan repayment calculator to calculate the total cost of the loan plus the interest.
School-sponsored and private scholarships are also available, and these are often awarded based on a number of factors besides financial need. Awards may be granted based on academic merit, career goals, community service, or family heritage.
While you'll need to submit individual applications for private scholarships, you can apply for all other types of financial aid by submitting just one form — the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Later, if you're approved for aid, you'll receive a financial aid offer from your school.
What Can You Do With an Online Environmental Science Degree?
An online bachelor's in environmental science is a surprisingly versatile degree that can serve as the starting point for many different careers in this field.
One of the most common occupations for graduates with this degree is environmental scientist. These professionals analyze environmental problems, assess the impact of human activity on nature, and develop possible solutions. Within this field, there are also several types of specialists, such as environmental health and safety specialists, industrial ecologists, and climate change analysts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this category of scientists earns a median annual salary of $76,530.
With some experience or possibly additional education, you may also qualify for related science-oriented occupations with respectable salaries. Some of these options include conservation scientist ($63,750), hydrologist ($84,030), and geoscientist ($83,680).
Further Education and Certification
If you're interested in specializing in a particular aspect of environmental science, you may want to pursue a master's degree. Programs are available that emphasize chemistry, biology, geology, sustainability, resource management, and more. The leadership skills and intensive knowledge you acquire may qualify you for higher-paying positions. To further your interest in original research, you can also consider earning a doctorate.
Another way to advance your career is to earn professional certification. Several organizations offer certification, such as the National Registry of Environmental Professions (NREP), the Academy of Board Certified Environmental Professionals (ABCEP), and the Association of Climate Change Officers (ACCO).
Thinking about earning a master's degree? You may be interested in the best master's programs in environmental science and the most affordable master's programs in environmental science.
FAQs About Online Environmental Science Degrees
How Do I Choose a Bachelor's in Environmental Science?
Selecting the right environmental science bachelor's degree program for your needs can be challenging. You've got many factors to consider, such as online format, available concentrations, notable faculty, financial support, and online student services. Some of these criteria may be more important to you than others, so assess them based on your personal priorities.
One thing you won't want to compromise on, however, is accreditation. Enrollment in an accredited university is required if you're going to receive financial aid, transfer to another school, or apply for graduate school. You may also want to look for schools with programmatic accreditation from the National Environmental Health, Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC).
How Long Does It Take to Get an Environmental Science Degree?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in environmental science requires 120-124 credit hours, which can be completed in four to five years of full-time study. However, many online programs offer flexible part-time options, which can extend the length of the program.
Is an Environmental Science Degree Hard?
The difficulty of an online bachelor's program in environmental science can vary greatly depending on your background and natural abilities. The courses are diverse, ranging from advanced math and laboratory sciences to business and social sciences. If you have a strong interest in the field, you'll probably find the coursework rewarding and manageable.
Is an Environmental Science Degree Worth The Cost?
Determining whether it will be worth it to you to pursue an online bachelor's degree in environmental science needs to be based on your personal priorities and goals.
If you want to look at the investment in financial terms, earning an environmental science bachelor's degree may give you a fairly high return on your investment. Environmental scientists earn a median annual income of about $76,000, and there are other career options that require only a bachelor's degree that feature even higher annual salaries.
Perhaps more important, a career in environmental science is likely to be personally fulfilling. Knowing that you're contributing to positive changes that may affect the planet and all of its inhabitants now and into the future could be incredibly rewarding.
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By OnlineU Staff Writers | 6/15/2023