Best Online Environmental Science Programs

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Updated on June 6, 2023
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Online bachelor’s in environmental science programs lead to careers addressing issues like climate change and preventing or remediating environmental degradation. Explore our list of top programs.

A bachelor’s degree in environmental science provides advanced training and education in a broad range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. Pursuing an environmental science bachelor’s degree online adequately prepares graduates for careers as environmental scientists and specialists. Specific titles include climate change analyst, environmental health and safety specialist, and environmental restoration planner.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals earned a median salary between $71,130 and $80,890 in 2018, depending on specialization. This is a significant increase from the $46,170 median salary earned by environmental science technicians — a related career obtainable with only an associate degree.

Popular Online Bachelor’s in Environmental Science Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Best Online Environmental Science Programs

Deciding which college to attend is a highly personal decision impacted by a variety of factors, including location, cost, academic quality, and school reputation. When pursuing an online education, additional concerns apply, like program format and pacing. With all of these considerations in mind, we’ve created a ranking of the best online environmental science bachelor’s degrees available. For each institution listed below, find both school- and program-specific information about curriculum offerings, admission requirements, and student services available to online learners.

Our rankings should provide a solid starting point for your college search. However, only you can properly evaluate your options and decide which online environmental science degree is the best fit for you. Take time to closely research the programs that catch your eye. Reach out to a school admissions specialist with any questions you discover along the way.

#1 Best Online Environmental Science Programs

Oregon State University

  • Location-markerCorvallis, OR
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$9,846
  • Out-of-state$29,445
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$12,933
  • Out-of-state$24,975
  • Retention Rate85%
  • Acceptance Rate82%
  • Students Enrolled31,719
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Environmental Science Programs

Virginia Wesleyan University

  • Location-markerVirginia Beach, VA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$36,010
  • Out-of-state$36,010
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,982
  • Out-of-state$8,982
  • Retention Rate59%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled1,487
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment14%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online Environmental Science Programs

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Location-markerManchester, NH
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$30,756
  • Out-of-state$30,756
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$18,810
  • Out-of-state$18,810
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate88%
  • Students Enrolled113,514
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment94%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online Environmental Science Programs

Wilmington University

  • Location-markerNew Castle, DE
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$11,430
  • Out-of-state$11,430
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,784
  • Out-of-state$8,784
  • Retention Rate60%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled14,730
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment75%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online Environmental Science Programs

University of Arizona

  • Location-markerTucson, AZ
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$10,990
  • Out-of-state$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,938
  • Out-of-state$32,065
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled44,577
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment42%
  • AccreditationYes

After reviewing the best environmental science online degree programs, read our comprehensive guide to explore admission details, common learning outcomes, and additional resources.

Environmental science graduates go on to work in a variety of industries, including government, business, and healthcare. Visit our career guide to explore your options.

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