2026 Best Online Environmental Science Master's Degrees
Find out which are the best online environmental science master's degrees to receive the strongest feedback from verified reviewers.
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jmcomicÂţ» environmental science master's degrees deepen expertise in areas such as sustainability, conservation, environmental policy, and scientific research. Student reviews can help show which master's programs have a strong overall experience.
Key Takeaways:
- The top four schools with environmental science master's degrees online all earn ratings of at least 4.45 along with unanimous recommendations.
- Several of the strongest environmental science programs are also among the least expensive.
- Available environmental science alumni earnings vary substantially, ranging from ~$49,200 at USF to ~$91,100 at Virginia Tech.
Below the list, we spoke with a higher education expert about how to thrive in online master’s in environmental science.
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team verifies that only institutionally accredited schools offering at least one fully online master's in environmental science degree make the cut. On top of that, schools must also have at least five verified student reviews and an aggregate rating of 2.5+ on a five-point scale. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize the most relevant student feedback by starting with reviews tied to the exact program and degree level. If too few master's in environmental science qualify, we gradually expand the review pool to include related programs or other degree levels, while preserving the most program-specific results at the top of the list. This process continues until all eligible review data has been considered.
2026 Best Online Environmental Science Master's Degrees
| Rank | School | Review Rating | Recommendation | 100% | $9,510 | $54,427 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California State University - Fresno | 4.56 / 5 | 100% | $8,064 | N/A | ||
| Utah State University | 4.55 / 5 | 100% | $6,153 | N/A | ||
| Auburn University | 4.45 / 5 | 100% | $9,450 | N/A | ||
| Johns Hopkins University | 4.17 / 5 | 90% | $47,700 | N/A | ||
| University of South Florida Online | 4.17 / 5 | 90% | $14,512 | $49,173 | ||
| Clemson University | 4.15 / 5 | 100% | $10,095 | N/A | ||
| Texas Tech University | 4.15 / 5 | 100% | $6,600 | $65,119 | ||
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | 4.08 / 5 | 86% | $29,100 | $91,116 | ||
| Colorado State University - Fort Collins | 4.06 / 5 | 88% | $9,900 | $56,859 | ||
| Arizona State University, Online | 3.95 / 5 | 90% | $20,200 | $75,879 | ||
| North Carolina State University | 3.93 / 5 | 84% | $8,524 | N/A | ||
| Louisiana State University | 3.89 / 5 | 92% | $10,404 | N/A | ||
| University of Arizona | 3.88 / 5 | 96% | $12,750 | N/A | ||
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 3.82 / 5 | 84% | Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Missouri as a broadly satisfying, high-value experience shaped by strong faculty access, abundant involvement, and a lively college-town setting. Many describe a beautiful, well-maintained campus, upgraded facilities, and a school culture where athletics, organizations, and downtown life make a large university feel more personal. Career services, internships, research, and hands-on learning are recurring strengths, especially when professors are engaged and responsive. Criticism centers on inconsistent academic rigor, oversized introductory classes, weak career guidance in some areas, tuition and limited aid, parking and tech frustrations, and a few sharp complaints about COVID handling, advising, and toxic lab leadership. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#2 4.56 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 91% Helpful for Career Online Degree: What Sets This Program Apart:
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Fresno State as a generally well-regarded, affordable campus where helpful professors, strong school spirit, and practical support systems shape the experience. Many describe faculty as accessible, caring, and influential in helping them find career direction, graduate early, or prepare for licensing exams and advanced study. The library, tutoring, health services, organizations, and cohort-style learning repeatedly stand out. Students also note that success depends on taking initiative to use those resources. Criticism centers on uneven advising, limited course availability, scheduling and communication issues, and concerns about the surrounding city, including heat, safety, and limited entertainment. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#3 4.55 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 9% Helpful for Career Online Degree: What Sets This Program Apart:
1 Student Review for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Jason Phelps, Graduated 2019 Overall Rating: 4/5 For those seeking a Climate Master's Program at Utah State University, I would highly recommend seeking out the climate-related professors in the Watershed Department at Utah State University (USU). The professors in the Climate Program at USU tend to... Read More Student Review Summary: Reviews of Utah State University are strongly favorable, with praise centering on approachable professors, small-community warmth, and a campus that feels both scenic and supportive. Many students say the school delivers solid value, citing affordable tuition, flexible online or broadcast courses, and advising that helps working adults, transfers, and distance learners stay on track. Hands-on learning, classroom or lab experience, and career relevance come up often, especially where faculty connect coursework to real jobs. Criticism is more targeted than broad: a few reviewers describe weak departments, inconsistent teaching quality, confusing administrative processes, limited funding, and a town atmosphere that can feel too quiet for those wanting city life. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#4 4.45 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 60% Helpful for Career Online Degree: What Sets This Program Apart:
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Auburn as a place where a large university often feels personal, with friendly professors, strong school spirit, and a welcoming town-and-campus atmosphere that many describe as family-like. Students frequently praise mentorship, hands-on learning, internships, research access, career fairs, and flexible scheduling, saying those experiences translated into jobs, graduate study, and confidence after graduation. Social life, football culture, and plentiful involvement opportunities are recurring highlights. Criticism centers on uneven academic rigor, inconsistent advising, underfunded support, and some programs that felt outdated or poorly aligned with careers. Several reviewers also warn about high costs, debt, and limited financial aid. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#5 4.17 / 5 Overall Rating 90% Recommend 71% Helpful for Career Online Degree: What Sets This Program Apart:
2 Student Reviews for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Naina Sharma, Graduated 2018 Overall Rating: 4/5 The Energy Policy and Climate (EPC) program at Johns Hopkins University is an excellent opportunity for those seeking a career in either climate science or energy. As the two topics becoming increasingly related, the courses strive to connect the science,... Read More nicole, Graduated 2019 Overall Rating: 4/5 Intense curriculum with a lot of interesting reading. Teachers are well versed and knowledgeable in their fields. I haven't been at the school long, but feel that it s well worth the tuition. I love the opportunity to work mostly online with only 1 on-site... Read More Student Review Summary: Across these reviews, Johns Hopkins is most often described as academically demanding, professionally useful, and rich with research, networking, and interdisciplinary opportunities. Students repeatedly praise accessible, accomplished professors, small or close-knit communities, and coursework that builds confidence, critical thinking, and career readiness. Online and part-time formats are a notable strength for working adults, especially when courses are well organized. The main complaints are persistent and specific: very high tuition, limited financial aid, uneven administration, inconsistent teaching quality across instructors, and weak career support in some areas. Several reviewers also mention safety concerns, limited social life, pressure-heavy culture, and uneven diversity or inclusion. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#6 4.17 / 5 Overall Rating 90% Recommend 29% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews of University of South Florida Online lean positive, with many describing strong instruction, a diverse and welcoming culture, and flexible formats that made it easier to balance school with work. Several reviewers say professors were approachable, responsive, and genuinely invested in career preparation through research, internships, clinical placements, and networking. The strongest praise centers on practical, job-oriented learning and access to real-world opportunities. Criticism is less about academics than uneven execution: some reviewers felt lost in a very large system, citing inconsistent advising, slow communication, large classes, parking hassles, and departments where research priorities or disorganization left them feeling unsupported. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#7 4.15 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 33% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Clemson University as a place where belonging is immediate and lasting. Many describe a genuine family atmosphere, approachable professors, strong school spirit, and a beautiful, safe campus with plentiful clubs, events, and study-abroad or online options. Students often say the academic experience is rigorous enough to build career readiness, with alumni connections and career fairs adding real value after graduation. The most consistent frustrations involve uneven teaching quality in some areas, overcrowded classes, disorganized graduate experiences, parking and traffic problems, limited diversity, and a perception that football or certain departments receive more attention and funding than others. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#7 4.15 / 5 Overall Rating 100% Recommend 20% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews of Texas Tech University skew positive, with many describing a strong sense of belonging, spirited campus culture, and professors who are accessible, encouraging, and genuinely invested in long-term success. Students often credit the school with helping them secure research roles, internships, graduate admission, or career growth, while also praising affordability, flexible online options, and practical support services. The recurring frustrations are more uneven than universal: some departments are described as disorganized, communication can be inconsistent, and teaching quality varies sharply by instructor. A smaller set of reviews also mention limited job payoff in certain fields, cumbersome policies, and Lubbock’s isolation or limited entertainment. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#9 4.08 / 5 Overall Rating 86% Recommend 21% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Virginia Tech as a place where campus life often leaves a lasting emotional mark: students rave about the beauty of Blacksburg, standout dining, deep school spirit, and a community that feels unusually welcoming for a large university. Many say those qualities translated into friendships, strong alumni ties, and valuable career networks. Academically, the picture is more uneven. Students in well-supported areas describe rigorous courses, accessible faculty, practical preparation, and strong recruiting, while critics, especially in some technical fields, report weak teaching, too much theory, poor communication, limited customization, and uneven support outside the university’s marquee disciplines. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Katherine Sheppard, Graduated 2015 Overall Rating: 5/5 I have been very happy with the Executive Master of Natrual Resources (XMNR) program at Virginia Tech. The staff and professors are highly interested and available for students. The program is a mix of online and in-person with an unusual, team based... Read More
#10 4.06 / 5 Overall Rating 88% Recommend 58% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray CSU Fort Collins as a place where many found caring professors, strong mentoring, and a welcoming campus culture that made a large university feel surprisingly personal. Students often praise the beauty of Fort Collins, the outdoors, and the sense of community, noting that flexible online options and hands-on experiences helped them balance work, family, and career goals. The sharpest criticisms are less about academics than support consistency: some describe disorganized advising, uneven communication, aging facilities, and poor transportation to certain areas. A smaller but striking set of reviews reports hostile departmental climates, lack of inclusivity, and feeling dismissed or unsupported. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Saleh DADJOUY, Graduated 2016 Overall Rating: 4.5/5 The only thing that I dislike is the poor building of our NR College. It is pretty old and needs to be renovated.
#11 3.95 / 5 Overall Rating 90% Recommend 100% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Arizona State University Online as highly convenient for working adults, parents, military families, and transfer learners who needed credible flexibility without pausing their lives. Many praise responsive professors, strong advising, user-friendly platforms, and course formats that helped them stay organized while feeling connected at a distance. Support services, research access, and career-oriented opportunities also stand out. Still, the strongest complaints are serious: some reviewers felt the online experience was overpriced, too reliant on prerecorded content, compressed into punishing 7.5-week terms, and weakened by uneven instruction. Administrative problems, especially with advising, financial aid, and billing, repeatedly left reviewers frustrated. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.7 Student Reviews for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Colette, Graduated 2026 Overall Rating: 5/5 I would recommend ASU to anyone looking to attend college. I have learned a lot through rigorous academics and applicable real-world skills. The professors are fair and seem to genuinely care about their students. I appreciate the wide range of classes... Read More Tommy Gates, Graduated 2020 Overall Rating: 4/5 I went to Arizona State University! The downtown campus to be exact. Arizona State has a very good program that allows students to find their way in their programs before graduation. Before completing my degree it was required of all students in my small... Read More Kayla, Graduated 2019 Overall Rating: 4/5 Arizona State University is a great school which has surprised me with how personable it is, even though it is the largest university in the United States. My specific schools, the School of Sustainability and the School for the Future of Innovation in... Read More
#12 3.93 / 5 Overall Rating 84% Recommend 42% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray North Carolina State University as a large, opportunity-rich campus that often feels smaller once you find your department, clubs, or cohort. Students repeatedly praise approachable professors, strong career preparation, hands-on learning, and access to research, internships, co-ops, and employer recruiting, especially through Raleigh and the Research Triangle. Many say the school builds confidence, practical skills, and lasting professional networks. The main drawbacks center on scale: some felt overwhelmed, struggled to get individualized advising, or found administrative processes slow. A smaller group also criticized inconsistent teaching quality, limited funding, parking, housing costs, and rigid policies around majors or internships. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.2 Student Reviews for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Conner Burke, Graduated 2016 Overall Rating: 4/5 North Carolina State University is a great place to live and grow. For starters, it is located in Raleigh, North Carolina's capital, which is a sprawling city with urban amenities as well as interspersed natural areas. The college itself is large enough... Read More Michael Drake, Graduated 2016 Overall Rating: 5/5 NCSU puts a lot of effort into career prep, which is great for Master's students!
#13 3.89 / 5 Overall Rating 92% Recommend 15% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray LSU as a place where campus life can feel electric and memorable, with school spirit, friendships, organizations, and football traditions shaping a strong sense of belonging. Many say professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested, and they credit rigorous courses, research access, and career-building opportunities with helping them feel workforce-ready. Affordability also stands out, especially for in-state attendees and online learners seeking flexibility. Criticism centers on inconsistent advising, limited career guidance, and large lower-division classes that can feel impersonal. Several reviewers also felt athletics and social life sometimes overshadow academics, while some noted outdated facilities, weak diversity, or clunky online systems. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.
#14 3.88 / 5 Overall Rating 96% Recommend 42% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews portray the University of Arizona as a large, high-energy campus where many found standout professors, strong academic support, and unusually practical pathways into research, internships, study abroad, and jobs. Students often praised faculty accessibility, career preparation, and the school’s ability to make a big university feel smaller once they connected with advisers, cohorts, or clubs. Science, health, business, and other professionally oriented areas were described as especially strong. Criticisms centered on inconsistent advising, disorganized administration, rising tuition, limited scholarships, and some departments that felt under-supported. Several also mentioned party culture, large introductory classes, and Tucson feeling either vibrant or too quiet. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Sarah, Graduated 2019 Overall Rating: 4/5 The University of Arizona has prepared me well for my future career in environmental and water science and policy. The faculty seems to care about its students and I've felt comfortable and successful here since moving to Arizona from out of state. I... Read More
#15 3.82 / 5 Overall Rating 84% Recommend 68% Helpful for Career Student Review Summary: Reviews of Southern New Hampshire University Online skew positive overall, with many describing a flexible format that fits work, parenting, military service, illness, and other life demands. Supportive advisors, responsive instructors, transfer-credit friendliness, and predictable weekly deadlines are recurring strengths. Many also say the coursework is challenging enough if you are self-directed, especially in writing-heavy classes. The sharpest criticism centers on financial aid, billing, and withdrawal disputes, with some reviewers describing surprise balances, transcript holds, and poor communication across departments. Others question academic consistency, citing rubric confusion, uneven instructor quality, limited lectures, repetitive assignments, and a sense that too much learning is self-taught. This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.1 Student Review for Master's in Environmental Science Degrees Jay4, Graduated 2026 Overall Rating: 4/5 Southern New Hampshire University is a very good school. I have had many positive experiences and engagements with this school. The professors and advisors are professional and understanding of my unique circumstances and accommodated me fairly. The courses... Read More
Compare The Best Online Environmental Science Master's DegreesAs the graph above indicates, among the ranked online environmental science master’s programs with earnings data, Virginia Tech has the highest median earnings among environmental science master's students at $91,116, alongside an estimated two-year tuition of about $58,200. The figures above can help you weigh potential outcomes in the long-run against more immediate degree cost, but neither metric determines program fit on its own, and earnings should be treated as a comparative outcome rather than a guaranteed return. The graph above illustrates that Missouri, Fresno State, Utah State, Auburn, Texas Tech, and Clemson each have a perfect, unanimous recommendation rate, even though their average review ratings range from 4.15 to 4.84. Arizona follows at 96%, LSU at 92%, and Johns Hopkins and USF Online at 90%. The two measures capture different signals: Recommendation Rate reflects how many verified reviewers would endorse the school to someone else. Review Rating measures their overall experience on a five-point scale. Since recommendation rates reflect the broader university experience, they are most useful for environmental science master's students as a measure of institutional fit. Programs in this field often cross departments and rely on resources such as research support, advising, technology, field or applied learning, and interdisciplinary faculty. So, a strong school-wide willingness to recommend can provide added context about the larger academic environment supporting the degree. Standout Features of the Most Highly-Rated Environmental Science Master's Degrees: An Editorial AnalysisScience Meets Management Texas Tech University At Texas Tech, its environmental sustainability and natural resource management degree is structured as a Professional Science Master’s, pairing environmental coursework with management, teamwork, financial literacy, marketing concepts, and communication. That makes it different from programs built primarily around research methods or environmental policy. Students also choose between two interdisciplinary tracks: Ecology and Environmental Sustainability through Biological Sciences or Natural Resources Management through the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Environmental Assessment From Science to Regulation North Carolina State University NC State centers its entire master's degree on environmental assessment. The online curriculum connects pollutant sources, fate, and effects with regulation, enforcement, remediation, and risk-based management decisions, making it more specialized than a general environmental science master’s. The required professional project reinforces that applied focus, and NC State maintains a public archive of completed projects. Graduate Science Labs Delivered to Your Door Colorado State University - Fort Collins Colorado State offers an online Master of Natural Sciences Education that sends course-specific science lab kits to online students, with the cost included in tuition. The experiments are designed so teachers can reuse, restock, and adapt them for their own classrooms, creating a direct bridge between graduate coursework and K-12 instruction. An Educator's Advice: Students Need Both Technical and Communication Skills to Thrive in Environmental Science
Jen Jones is a veteran educator with over 28 years of experience in K-12 instruction and teacher training. As the founder of Hello Literacy, she works with schools across the U.S., Canada, and Australia to implement evidence-based literacy practices. She has also taught reading methods for secondary classrooms as an adjunct instructor at East Carolina University.
"Though my expertise lies in literacy, I’ve also advised numerous students exploring interdisciplinary education — including environmental science — guiding them toward purposeful careers aligned with their strengths." What analysis tools should graduate students expect to learn as part of an environmental science major? "Commonly used software tools include GIS (ArcGIS), R (statistical software), Excel/data analysis and remote sensing platforms, essentials skills for data-driven environmental roles." Are there specific focus areas (e.g., climate policy, wildlife conservation, pollution control) that are more marketable? "Definitely yes –students who focus on climate policy, wildlife conservation, pollution control; water management; sustainability will often enjoy better employability due to growing demand and targeted career paths. I would suggest:
How can students gain relevant experience outside the virtual classroom? "For instance they should engage in volunteer positions or internships within NGOs, government agencies related to environment and conservation parks /labs. Many programs also include co-op placements to support hands-on training." EXPERT TIP
FAQs About Choosing the Best Online Environmental Science Master’s DegreeWhat Does the Field of Environmental Science Entail at the Master's Level?Environmental science is the study of nature, wildlife, and natural resources. It is a multidisciplinary field that includes biology, ecology, chemistry, physics, and other areas of study. Environmental scientists focus on different issues affecting the environment, including how we as human beings impact the world around us, and look for sustainable solutions to large-scale environmental concerns such as pollution and renewable energy sources. Why Is Environmental Science Important?As the world population continues to grow, so will our impact on the environment. Environmental scientists play a critical role in studying the world around us and finding better solutions to help us live longer, healthier, happier lives while preserving the environment and the natural resources we rely on to live. Environmental scientists help make sure we have clean drinking water, clean air to breathe, healthy food to eat, and nature to enjoy. They also help keep wildlife habitats safe to reduce the harm we cause to other animals. What Type of Environmental Science Master’s Degree Is Right for Your Career Goals?What type of master's degree you should get for environmental science depends on what type of work you want to do. There are many specializations within environmental science master's programs, including natural resources, environmental law and policy, climate change, water resources and conservation, and health and safety. Some students might choose a master's program based on what they're interested in, while others might choose based on what fields of study are in high demand where they live or want to live. What Should You Know Before Choosing an Environmental Science Master’s Degree?Earning a master’s in environmental science allows individuals to develop research methods, expand their knowledge, and advance their careers in STEM. Environmental science degrees offer a wide variety of different focus areas, blending disciplines such as business and management, organizational leadership, law and public policy, and hands-on field research to cater to a growing need for environmental science professionals. 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 what impacts it are important to local, state, and federal agencies, engineering and environmental consulting firms, independent research laboratories, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and many other employers. Many schools on our list of the best online master's programs in environmental science offer multiple options for graduate students in environmental science. Students who are interested in more academic careers or intend to go onto a PhD program can choose a program that is focused on research designed to solve environmental problems. Universities have hosted some of the most innovative research projects for environmental science, and students who attend one of these schools may have the opportunity to get involved. Online master's in environmental science degrees are also available in a range of other subjects and specializations. Programs that are less research-heavy often require real-world professional projects. 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. Other programs focus on a specific area within the field of environmental science, such as environmental analysis, environmental assessment, or agriculture for students who want to tailor their environmental studies to their career goals. See our lists of the most affordable environmental science degrees and most affordable master's in environmental science to save money in college. What Are the Admission Requirements and Program Expectations for an Online Master’s in Environmental Science?Students applying to an online college will need a bachelor's degree to get into a master's program, and they may need to submit other materials, like an application essay or GRE scores. For traditional in-person schools, application deadlines usually happen from late fall to early spring the year before you intend to go. Many online programs are less strict about this and accept applications much closer to the start date. Most master's degrees in environmental science require 30-45 credit hours, which usually takes a year and a half to two years to complete. Because the major is heavily focused on science, labs and other experiential learning opportunities are common. Students who earned their bachelor's in environmental science or a similar major may be familiar with the types of hands-on learning experiences required. Most programs also require some kind of capstone course or project. Depending on the type of program, this can look like a professional project or partnership, a practicum with a local organization, a graduate seminar, a research project, a seminar class, or a thesis. What Courses Should You Look for in an Environmental Science Master’s Program Online?Courses in environmental science graduate programs can vary widely depending on what area of focus a student chooses. Most programs will involve some research, statistical analysis, physical sciences, and classes on environmental law and public policy. Students often get to choose electives to fill the rest of their program based on professional and personal interests. The following are some of the core online courses often found in an environmental science master's program:
Which Environmental Science Specialization Should You Choose?Environmental science is an exciting and interdisciplinary field that students can take in a number of directions. Graduates of an online master’s degree 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 in the field of environmental science:
What Can You Do With a Master's in Environmental Science Degree?After finishing a master's in environmental science, some online students may go straight to a doctorate program or pursue further education to round out their experience. Others may get involved or continue with a research project. Those who choose to enter the workforce have a wide array of career paths available to them. Employment data for more than 20,000 college graduates shows today's environmental science alumni have more diverse job prospects than those from years past, highlighting a growing need for experts in a broad range of sectors.
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. Careers for environmental science majors are growing in the public and private sectors. Additionally, many nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) rely on student research 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. Is It Worth Getting an Online Master's in Environmental Science?Whether or not it's worth it to get a master's in environmental science online depends on your career goals, personal interests, and financial situation. A master's in environmental science can open the door to many fulfilling careers doing important work. For many people, saving the environment is a high priority, and a master's degree can help you get your foot in the door, especially if you want to do research or hold a management position. Master's degrees also usually open up opportunities for higher salaries, although this depends on what type of job you get after college. If you aren't interested in environmental science or the career you want doesn't require a master's degree, it may not be worth it to spend the time and money. There are a wide variety of online master's degrees in environmental science that allow graduate students to conduct research, gain hands-on experience and fieldwork, or focus on targeted professional experience to help advance their careers. Master's degrees in environmental science can open the door to high-level jobs in research, academia, business and management, law, public policy, analytics, and many other industries to help advance sustainability efforts and conserve natural resources. For people who care about protecting the environment, an online master's program can help them do fulfilling work and make a big impact. However, students should choose their program carefully based on their professional interests, think about what direction they want their career to go in, and weigh the potential costs and benefits of enrolling in a program. Student Reviews of Online Environmental Science ProgramsSouthern New Hampshire University is a very good school. I have had many positive experiences and engagements with this school. The professors and advisors are professional and understanding of my unique circumstances and accommodated me fairly. The courses were clear and easy to understand, and provided me a lot of knowledge. Review Date: 12/5/2025 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I was of often talked down to because of my background. I came from a disadvantaged place and worked many blue collar jobs. I had faculty speak down to me on multiple occasions after they saw what I was currently doing in my career. I did not feel supported or like people wanted me there as part of the program. I have had problems every step of the way. Review Date: 10/8/2021 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No Intense curriculum with a lot of interesting reading. Teachers are well versed and knowledgeable in their fields. I haven't been at the school long, but feel that it s well worth the tuition. I love the opportunity to work mostly online with only 1 on-site required course. Review Date: 3/20/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I never quite understood thriving in a school setting until my attendance at Prescott College. I have the capacity to individualize and design my projects for program from start to finish as well as have a supportive learning community along the way! Review Date: 2/19/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I am in the second term of my Graduate Degree Program. It's hard to write a review for a program you have yet to complete. So far, I am happy with the program. It is providing a well-rounded education in both business and sustainability so I might take education and turn it into a successful career. Review Date: 3/12/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Green Mountain College offers a great online graduate program. Obtaining my Master of Science in Evironmental Studies was possible and enjoyable because of how the curriculum and class structure was set up. Having fast paced classes that lasted only 6 weeks is a wonderful fit with somone who is working full-time. Review Date: 3/13/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No This school is very military friendly. They also have a great staff that is always willing to help and guide you in the right direction. They are not pushing for anyone particular program. This school is also very easy to enroll into without having to jump through a thousand hoops. Review Date: 6/1/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No American Public University is an outstanding school. This University is perfect for military members for several reasons. Since it is a military friendly school, the staff understands that the Mission comes first. Several times throughout my time at APU, I had to leave for weeks at a time with just days notice. My professors gave me extensions or allowed me to work ahead so I would not fall behind in class. This school also offers 8 week and 16 week sessions, so you can learn at your own pace. Review Date: 3/22/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No The Biomimicry MS program at Arizona State University is 100% online which makes it very convenient for out of state students like myself. The support I have received from both faculty and staff is top notch including feedback loops (for any subject) which are prompt and consistent between faculty and students. The experience I have had overall has been rich in terms of instructor, curriculum and peer collaboration. I appreciate how interconnected our courses have been with current and emerging science... Read More Review Date: 5/10/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Sustainability is a new buzzword for good reason. It is good for business, the environment, and society. National University offers a Masters of Science in Sustainability Management which I highly recommend if you want to step out of the norm and actually make a difference, affect change, and provide value to any company. In this program you will study: Energy Management, Watershed Management, Sustainable Supply Chains, Sustainable Buildings, Environmental Management, and Life Cycle Management. I... Read More Review Date: 2/23/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I chose an online graduate program because I wanted to continue working full time. I know that it seems ironic to study the environment solely through the computer, but the program is uniquely designed to get you out into your community, and allow you to focus on your own eco-region. It's the only program of it's kind. The rolling 6-week class schedule is perfect for scheduling school around busy lives. Academic-wise, it depends on the concentration you decide on, and which classes you take. As a... Read More Review Date: 9/19/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Pros: -Excellent academics, I have learnt and utilized all the courses I have taken so far. -Teachers are well informed of the subject matter and are available online when needed. -Run on quarterly semesters. -Tuition is reasonable. -Lots of classes and opportunities available. Cons: -None Review Date: 8/23/2015 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Amazing school and highly respected with employers. I got my dream job thank to the Masters Degree offered by this great school. It took me three long years of hard work and lots of assignments but it was totally worth the effort. The tuition fee was very low in comparison to the similar program but the courses and instructors were high quality. I totally recommend them for any EHS/ OHS courses or degrees. Review Date: 8/23/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes I have been very happy with the Executive Master of Natrual Resources (XMNR) program at Virginia Tech. The staff and professors are highly interested and available for students. The program is a mix of online and in-person with an unusual, team based learning format. The program strives to balance the student's education with their personal interests, skills, and work field, recognizing that the students are immersed full-time in their careers of choice. The program is online with one weekend of... Read More Review Date: 2/18/2014 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I quite liked everything about this school, except their financial aid office. The teachers were incredible knowledgeable and helpful. I learned an awful lot. My only problem stemmed from how they handled my financial aid. During my fiscal years with them, which is the 8 month period you are taking classes with them, I had more problems than I didn't. I was on the phone with them so many times to figure out what was going wrong it was kinda ridiculous. Now my biggest problem was not that it was a... Read More Review Date: 1/29/2016 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes This online degree has its pros and cons. On the plus side, the price is right, and the professors gave me the freedom to work on the subjects of greatest interest/relevance to me. Some of the professors were very much involved in the field at the same time they were teaching the class, as well. Cons, for me, included some of the work being too easy, some of the lower class level profs being ill informed on the subject matter, and a general lack of ability to really connect with professors due to... Read More Review Date: 8/1/2013 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No I attended CSUB fully online. The courses were challenging. The advisers and teachers were fantastic and available for advice and detailed instruction. At first, I did not think an online education would be worth it. I was very wrong. The classes included students from all over the world. In my classes, they ranged in age from 18 to 75. They were able to provide wisdom and real world experience. Review Date: 12/24/2018 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: Yes Some of the professors are more concerned about their research then focusing on teaching students. There is a clear lack of knowledge of the bureaucratic process leaving students and professors constantly facing hurdles. I can not emphasize this enough but the education was subpar and the lack of critical engagement with students was concerning. If you want to be an echo chamber where your beliefs are never questioned and you are challenged as a student, maybe this is the place for you. Review Date: 5/6/2026 Would Recommend: No Helpful for Career: No The Energy Policy and Climate (EPC) program at Johns Hopkins University is an excellent opportunity for those seeking a career in either climate science or energy. As the two topics becoming increasingly related, the courses strive to connect the science, technology, and policy of climate and energy in a way that is relevant to current events. The professors are highly knowledgeable, have varied academic and professional backgrounds, and are excellent resources for the capstone project. The Master's... Read More Review Date: 11/28/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No The Bard MBA in Sustainability program pioneered the way for all other MBAs that are not trying to follow suit with this business revolution that has been creating paradigm disruptions for quite some time now. Bar was one of less than a handful of programs that offered a curriculum focused on how corporate social responsibility was right for the triple bottom line, and that arguments by the status quo indicating that these were bad business practices came from backward thinkers that would eventually... Read More Review Date: 3/5/2017 Would Recommend: Yes Helpful for Career: No Related Articles |
