OnlineBachelorsDegree.Guide

Top Online Environmental Science Degree Programs Ranked For 2025

We've compiled the most up-to-date information on these fully or mostly online Online Environmental Science degree programs across the U.S. This data is accurate as of March 21, 2025. We carefully reviewed quality, affordability, and student outcomes to bring you the best options. Explore our updated rankings below to find the program that's right for you.

#1

University of Arizona

B.S. in Environmental Science

$78,980 estimated total
Online

Key Highlights

["Gain a broad scientific understanding of human influence on our natural world.", "Prepare to solve environmental and associated human health challenges.", "Exciting classes and research opportunities spanning multiple disciplines.", "Increase your ability to think critically and work on a team.", "Top 3% Online Bachelor's Program in the U.S. - U.S. News & World Report (2024)"]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program provides a broad scientific understanding of human influence on the natural world, from the molecular to a global scale. The curriculum and faculty prepare students to solve environmental and associated human health challenges in a time of rapid ecological change. The program prepares students for careers in natural sciences, human health, and sustainability, and can serve as a springboard for graduate school. Students gain knowledge and valuable skills in chemistry, soil, air and water science, and transferable leadership skills.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Leadership, Sustainability and Communication", "Soil, Air and Water", "Physical and Chemical Dynamics Emphasis", "The Biosphere Emphasis"]
  • Transfer Credits: Not Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Knowledge in chemistry", "Knowledge in soil science", "Knowledge in air and water science", "Transferable leadership skills"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Total Estimated Program Cost: $78,980
  • In-State Tuition: $11,546/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $37,053/year
Visit Program Website
$525 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Prepares students for innovative and sustainable solutions.", "Offers a diverse skillset in science, communication, critical thinking, and leadership.", "Addresses issues affecting land, air, and water systems.", "Focuses on sustainable management of resources.", "Covers remediation and restoration of disturbed environments."]

Program Description

The online Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program at the University of Arizona prepares students to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to critical environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change. The curriculum provides a diverse and practical skillset in science, communication, critical thinking, and leadership, enabling graduates to address issues affecting land, air, and water systems. Graduates work on the sustainable management of land and water resources, the environmental impact of resource extraction, agriculture, and urbanization, as well as the remediation and restoration of disturbed environments. The program offers an engaging learning experience with knowledgeable faculty, emphasizing the creation of new scientific knowledge to impact a rapidly changing world.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["SOIL, AIR AND WATER EMPHASIS", "LEADERSHIP, SUSTAINABILITY AND COMMUNICATION EMPHASIS"]
  • Transfer Credits: Not Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Biology", "Chemistry", "Data analysis", "Field research", "Laboratory research", "Microbiology", "Molecular biology", "Natural resource management", "Research and analytical methods", "Soil science", "Technical writing", "Water quality"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $525
Visit Program Website
$476 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Develop analytical tools to assess, allocate, and manage natural resources.", "Create policies to preserve natural resources.", "Balance economic objectives with sustainable, environmentally conscious business strategies.", "Gain a strong foundation in macroeconomics, microeconomics, finance, econometrics, natural resource policy, and agricultural policy.", "Study in a flexible, online format."]

Program Description

This online undergraduate degree program will help you develop the analytical tools to assess, allocate, and manage natural resources and create policies to preserve them. Start building the knowledge to balance economic objectives with sustainable, environmentally conscious business strategies. Comprehensive economic analysis provides a strong basis to guide policies and business operations that directly and indirectly affect our environment. At its core, economic theory provides an excellent framework for understanding both environmental and natural resource issues, predicting the potential effects of governmental policies and regulations, and developing innovative solutions to pressing economic and environmental problems. Unlike other programs that focus primarily on natural resource management and only touch on economics, this program focuses on evaluating the past, current, and future economic impacts of various policies at a local, regional, and global scale. After successfully completing this program of study, you will have a strong foundation in macroeconomics, microeconomics, finance, econometrics, natural resource policy, and agricultural policy.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: High school graduation or equivalent. 2.7+ high school GPA (freshmen) OR 2.5+ college GPA (transfer) preferred. Freshman course recommendations OR Transfer mathematics requirement.

Skills You'll Gain

["Economic analysis of environmental and natural resource issues", "Policy development for resource preservation", "Sustainable business strategy creation", "Application of macroeconomic and microeconomic principles", "Econometric analysis", "Natural resource policy analysis", "Agricultural policy analysis"]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $476
Visit Program Website
$16,390 in-state tuition per year
Campus

Key Highlights

["Focus on pressing environmental challenges like climate change and pollution.", "Emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.", "Exposure to the latest environmental science technologies and tools.", "Access to laboratory facilities and equipment for experiments and research.", "Preparation for environmental stewardship using social and ecological responsibility principles."]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science at Grand Canyon University is a degree program designed to prepare you to tackle some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges, such as climate change, pollution and other environmental issues. The College of Natural Sciences aims to graduate well-rounded professionals who are comfortable with inquiry, research and practical methodology. A degree in environmental science can be a good fit for students who are passionate about the environment and are looking to make a positive impact on our planet's future. This degree program focuses on teaching versatile skills, such as the application of critical thinking to various situations, refinement of problem-solving strategies and use of effective communication with stakeholders. You will be exposed to the latest technologies and tools used in the environmental science field. Your access to laboratory facilities and equipment can enable you to conduct experiments and research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members. Coursework includes both lectures and lab courses to provide opportunities to develop a deep understanding of scientific theory and how to apply it in practical settings. Environmental risk assessment, field and laboratory analysis and remediation strategies are at the heart of this degree program.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
  • Concentrations: ["Environmental Chemistry Emphasis"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Strong sense of professionalism and ethics", "Critical thinking about current research", "Understanding of environmental and human health regulations", "Application of laboratory and field techniques for environmental assessment and remediation", "Environmental risk assessment competencies"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $16,390/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $16,390/year
Visit Program Website
$371 per credit
4 years
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Gain skills employers need, including research methods and data analysis.", "Become a socially responsible leader capable of making strong decisions.", "Apply relevant concepts, theories, and principles to environmental management solutions.", "Optional concentration in business foundations to develop management skills.", "Opportunity for practical experience through an optional internship."]

Program Description

The Online Bachelor’s in Environmental Policy and Management at Purdue Global is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to make an impact on their careers and the environment. The program explores the relationship between the public and private sectors, society, economics, politics, and the environment. Students examine the latest case studies and research, learning from faculty with expertise in environmental and sustainability fields. An optional concentration in business foundations is available to develop competencies for management. Students can also gain practical experience through an optional internship. The curriculum integrates science, economics, and policy, culminating in a capstone course. The program provides a pathway to a master’s degree, allowing students to complete graduate-level courses during their bachelor’s program to save time and tuition.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: Purdue Global Is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The HLC (HLCommission.org) is an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Concentrations: ["Business Foundations"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: You must be a high school graduate or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or other equivalency diploma. You must also complete orientation before you start classes.

Skills You'll Gain

["Use research methods and tools to retrieve and analyze information and data.", "Become a socially responsible leader who can make strong decisions.", "Apply relevant concepts, theories, and principles to evaluate and recommend solutions for managing the environment.", "Assess environmental policy and law and its impact on local, state, and national systems and communities.", "Analyze global environmental issues."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $371
Visit Program Website
#6

Columbia Southern University

Online B.S. in Environmental Management

$270 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Prepares students for a career in the environmental management industry.", "Covers a broad range of topics from environmental issues to industry best practices.", "Applies theory, technology, and collaborative practices.", null, null]

Program Description

Columbia Southern University’s online B.S. in Environmental Management applies theory, technology and collaborative practices to prepare students for a career in the environmental management industry. A broad range of topics are covered in the program, ranging from important environmental issues facing our planet today to industry-level environmental best practices and regulatory compliance.

Program Features

  • Accreditation: Regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
  • Concentrations: ["General Concentration"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

null

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $270
  • Additional Cost Information:
    Costs shown may not include additional fees, expenses, and discounts that may be applicable for an individual student based on their specific enrollment.
Visit Program Website
$325 per credit
4 years
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Curriculum taught by industry experts", "Exploration of physical and biological processes", "Expert-level knowledge of environmental law", "Hands-on experience through internship opportunities", "100% online program designed to fit your schedule"]

Program Description

The Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences degree from the University of West Alabama Online develops the skills to respond to urgent environmental problems. Through a curriculum taught by industry experts, you’ll explore the physical and biological processes that shape the natural world and gain expert-level knowledge of environmental law. The degree also offers hands-on experience and preparation for a variety of in-demand environmental science careers through internship opportunities. The Bachelor’s in Environmental Sciences degree can be completed entirely online through the university’s virtual classroom. Designed to fit your schedule, UWA’s online degree programs allow you to access courses on your schedule without being required to travel to campus.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: Submit official transcript of high school grades or GED scores. Submit official college and institution transcripts (if applicable). Submit immunization record and medical history form.

Skills You'll Gain

null

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $325
  • Additional Cost Information:
    A $60 technology fee each semester.
Visit Program Website
#8

Virginia Wesleyan University

Online Arts In Environmental Studies

$399 per credit
Online

Key Highlights

["Real-world skill development", "Flexibility to complete your education in a format that works for you", "Expert instructors with years of experience in their fields", "Prepares you for a career that makes a positive impact on our world."]

Program Description

Virginia Wesleyan University’s online environmental studies degree provides a well-rounded education to complement your passion for the issues facing our environment. By studying topics that emphasize the interdisciplinary nature of the field, you will be able to apply what you learn in the workplace. VWU’s expert instructors have years of experience in their fields, so you gain the knowledge you need to excel in your career after graduation. Whether you choose to pursue environmental science, corporate sustainability, conservation or another discipline, this degree program prepares you for a career that makes a positive impact on our world. The online bachelor’s program emphasizes real-world skill development along with flexibility, so you can complete your education in a format that works for you.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Corporate Sustainability", "Environmental Science", "Conservation"]
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted
  • Prerequisites: Applicants who have not yet completed 12 semester hours of college work must submit an official high school transcript and SAT/ACT score, and an official college transcript from all colleges and universities previously attended. Applicants who have not taken an SAT or ACT may be admitted on the basis of an evaluation of high school coursework. Applicants who are not high school graduates may be admitted on the basis of GED test results. Applicants who have successfully completed 12 or more semester hours of college work must submit official college transcripts from all institutions previously attended. Generally, individuals transferring to Virginia Wesleyan must present a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Skills You'll Gain

["Knowledge in key areas like science, economics", "Understanding of how humans fit into the natural world", "Application of knowledge in the workplace", "Skills to manage and improve the use of land, water and more."]

Tuition & Costs

  • Cost Per Credit: $399
Visit Program Website
$12,270 in-state tuition per year
Traditional Classroom, Online

Key Highlights

["Hands-on learning with extensive lab kits for home preparation", "Guidance from faculty who are active practitioners", "Small class sizes for valuable interaction between students and instructors", "Partnerships with the Delaware Space Grant Consortium and Delaware INBRE program", "Opportunity to accelerate into the M.S. in Environmental Science"]

Program Description

The B.S. in Environmental Science and Policy program at Wilmington University prepares students for careers in protecting and preserving natural resources. It combines interdisciplinary knowledge with hands-on experiences, focusing on critical thinking, hypothesis testing, scholarly writing, and the use of scientific and digital tools. The program emphasizes both environmental science and policy aspects, equipping graduates for job readiness and further graduate-level education. Students can learn in traditional classroom and online settings with small class sizes that ensure valuable interaction between students and instructors. Furthermore, students can benefit from WilmU’s affiliation as a member institution of the Delaware Space Grant Consortium, a program funded by NASA to train students and researchers in the areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and geography, as well as scholarship in biomedical research through study and internships with other local universities and employers through partnership with the Delaware INBRE program.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Critical thinking", "Hypothesis testing", "Scholarly writing", "Use of scientific and digital tools", "Knowledge to protect and preserve our natural resources"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $12,270/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $12,270/year
  • Additional Cost Information:
    You only pay for the courses you need to complete your environmental science degree.
Visit Program Website
$1,465 in-state tuition per year
100% Online

Key Highlights

["Develop an understanding of research methods and statistics for natural sciences", "Prepare for advanced graduate study or immediate work in fields like conservation and natural resource management", "Focus on the interactions between living organisms and the natural environment", "Develop practical skills in research and scientific methodology", "Examine the structure and function of natural systems"]

Program Description

The Environmental Science program at Columbia College focuses on preparing students to address environmental challenges through natural resource management, policy, and sustainability. Students develop an understanding of research methods and statistics for natural sciences. The curriculum explores the interactions between living organisms and the natural environment, covering biology, ecology, chemistry, zoology, and botany. The program provides opportunities to develop practical skills in research and scientific methodology through lab and field work. Students examine the structure and function of natural systems, providing a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between living organisms and the environment.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Not Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Clear communication", "Critical thinking", "Understanding of natural resource management", "Research methods", "Statistical analysis"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $1,465/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $8,788/year
Visit Program Website
$11,308 in-state tuition per year
Online

Key Highlights

["Gain insight into natural processes affecting our environment and how we interact with it.", "Learn to address vulnerabilities in our environment and drive solutions to improve the human condition.", "Specialize in your interest area by selecting an elective track.", "Prepare for careers in environmental science research, conservation management, public policy development, or advocacy."]

Program Description

This online Bachelor of Arts program in Earth and Environmental Sciences is designed for individuals interested in understanding and addressing today's pressing environmental challenges. The curriculum provides insight into natural processes affecting the environment, human interactions with it, and the changes occurring as a consequence. Students will gain a broad understanding of Earth as a complex system, focusing on the environment and its physical processes. Core areas of learning include natural resources, hazards, life, geology, soils, oceans, and climate, as well as their implications for a sustainable human society. The program prepares graduates for roles that address environmental vulnerabilities and drive solutions to improve the human condition. Students can specialize through elective tracks such as Climate and Environmental Change, Environmental Education, Environmental Management, Environmental Policy, Natural Resources, or Sustainability.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: ["Climate and environmental change", "Environmental education", "Environmental management", "Environmental policy", "Natural resources", "Sustainability"]
  • Transfer Credits: Not Accepted
  • Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; Four years of math; Four years of English; Three years of lab sciences; Two years of social sciences; Two years of the same second language; One year of fine arts or career and technical education; Meeting at least one of the following: Top 25% in high school graduating class, 3.00 GPA in competency courses, ACT score of 22 (AZ residents) or 24 (non-residents), SAT score of 1120 (AZ residents) or 1180 (non-residents).

Skills You'll Gain

["Understanding of Earth as a complex system.", "Knowledge of natural resources, hazards, life, geology, soils, oceans, and climate.", "Ability to analyze environmental problems and propose solutions.", "Skills for careers in environmental administration, public planning, environmental reporting, and education."]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $11,308/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $31,450/year
Visit Program Website
#12
$6,638 in-state tuition per year
Online

Key Highlights

null

Program Description

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Environmental Studies from Thomas Edison State University (TESU) addresses the increasing public interest in environmental threats and the resulting demand for employees with environmental science degrees. The program focuses on how the biological, physical, and social sciences are used to understand complex environmental problems. This 120-credit online degree program aims to develop skills to respond to pressing environmental issues such as global climate change, pollution, biodiversity conservation, and resource management.

Program Features

  • Concentrations: null
  • Transfer Credits: Not Accepted

Skills You'll Gain

["Define the human and natural phenomena that impact the environment", "Identify and analyze the technology and management strategies that prevent, control and remedy the human and natural phenomena that impact the environment.", "Understand the environmental, socioeconomic and political implications of human interactions with the environment.", "Explain environmental problems, analyze risks to humans and the environment, and propose alternate solutions to remedy environmental problems", "Demonstrate awareness of how the scientific method is applied in environmental studies research"]

Tuition & Costs

  • In-State Tuition: $6,638/year
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $8,598/year
Visit Program Website

Explore More Online Environmental Science Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Online Environmental Science degrees, career paths, and more.

Explore FAQs

Learning Resources

Discover helpful tools, guides, and materials to enhance your Online Environmental Science education.

View Resources

Career Opportunities

Explore potential career paths, job outlooks, and opportunities in Online Environmental Science.

Explore Careers

Explore Online Environmental Science Degree Programs By State

Find the best Online Environmental Science degree programs and training options in your state